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When I first saw my pcp, it was March 17, 2014. On that day I weighed 297 pounds. I am 5'5" or 5'6" depending upon who does the measuring. I decided that very day to start losing weight. 

I have completed 5 of my 6 classes and if I pass the cardiologist I will be scheduled for surgery. Since I started losing weight in March I have lost 45 pounds, as of this morning. My diet has completely changed. No wheat products (goodbye homemade bread), no sugar except the minimal amounts which are in my protein shake. I worked toward eating the bariatric way and it has really helped. I do eat more food than I would post surgery, but I do protein first, then vegetables, then fruit. I eat yogurt as a solution to my sweet craving.

I have waffled a lot about surgery, but the closer it gets, the more ready I am. Just once in my life I would like to feel good. Now, tell me about your journey.

While I was attending my pre-surgery monthly group, we were told to start exercising. Since I have bad knees, that was not good news. Add to that, I am not a gym rat. I started searching for a way to workout at home and discovered Stronger Seniors dvd's by Anne Pringle Burnell. They are designed for the older and infirmed among us. Most workouts are done from the chair and unless you are already in excellent physical shape, I believe you will find them a worthy workout.  A few exercises are done behind the chair to develop balance. Working out at home allows me the opportunity too stop if I am in pain or feel overworked. I can pick things up a few hours later if I wish. I now own all but one of the dvd's and the last will be here soon. They are: Stretch and Strength ( a 2 dvd set), Core Fitness, Core Strength, Toning Ball Weight Training, and Balance and Posture. I like the ball exercise the best, but I started with the Strength and Stretch, which I highly recommend. The one I am waiting for is the Yoga, which will help me center when I a get frustrated with my poor physical fitness.

Let me know what issues you are facing so we can discuss them.

Whether you get surgery or not, I think it is worthwhile to go through  the process, After all, Medicare is paying, so why not get tested. I first had a colonoscopy which ruled out any cancer, but found some irritation. Next, I had an upper GI which discovered I did not have ulcers, but a hiatal hernia which was causing GERD and had caused problems with my esophagus, but ruled out cancer, once again. Then I had my mental health assessment, I had a moment of consternation before going to that one, but passed  with flying colors. My daughter did not believe me, lol. Next I had my pulmonary exam and found I had COPD and was issued a rescue inhaler. The also booked a sleep study for me and it was found I have sleep apnea. I am going this week to be fitted for a CPAP. Now I am afraid to go to the cardiology exam which has not yet been scheduled. They will probably find I have no heart. Seriously, though, I am glad to learn of these things because my entire mission is to improve my quality of life and learning the downside can only help.

An added benefit of attending the nutritional classes had been a complete reconfiguration of my eating habits. I have been able to lose 31 pounds on my own in 4 months. Even if I do not have surgery, I can continue my eating habits and continue to lose weight. Plus, I have found so many online resources since speaking with others. I really recommend the journey.

I am 65 and have been looking into bariatric surgery for 4 months. Originally, I wanted knee surgery, but my surgeon said my BMI should be 40 or less. I am around 44 right now. I decided it would not be a bad idea to have bariatric surgery first, to ensure success with the knee surgery and have been on that journey ever since. 

I have attended 3 of my 6 mandatory pre-surgical meetings, plus have had several of the pre-op tests done to assess my general health. I have been sold on the VSG surgery from the very beginning, but my surgeon wants me to go the RNY route. I am not a fan and recently have been told horror stories by people who are 8 and 10 years out from their surgeries. If anyone can give me guidance on this issue, it would be appreciated.

I am told there are some concerns that older people have that younger folks do not face, but I can get much specific information, so if anyone wants to post articles, videos or websites that address this issue, that would be very helpful.

I also struggle with the concept of vigorous exercise. Being older, I am moving more slowing and enjoy life that way. If people can contribute realistic workouts for seniors to do, that would be great. Right now, chair yoga is my first choice because walking is tough on my knees.