[nanfromsactown]

Lee,

I too am overweight. Ideally I need to lose 60 lbs to be at a good goal weight. I could lose more but that is the number the docs have given me. I've ALWAYS been overweight, and have come through several abdominal surgeries without any problems--that's just me. I am consulting with Dr. Zeegers and Dr. Bertagnoli. Dr. Z has said without question that even though I am overweight and have had surgeries, he still thinks I am a good candidate for the surgery. From my research, the docs in Europe are more inclined to handle "difficult" cases. My BMI is 34 right now. I am on a quest to lose as much weight as I can before I have surgery (I am shooting for June if I am approved), but I would have it either way.

I too thought losing weight was going to solve my back problem even though I was told unequivocally it would not make a difference in my pain level or disability level but would make me healthier. I found out what the doctor said was true. My quest now is to lose weight for my health because I've developed high cholesterol and high (sky) triglycerides. I stopped eating sugar in October and have just started a really strict diet. I'd love email you privately about this if you want. I have even started treadmilling--which is hard but I read on these boards that someone started treadmill for an hour a day prior to his surgery and he felt it helped his recovery. I can't do an hour yet without serious consequences, but I can handle 20 minutes and its better than nothing.

As for lying around and not getting up and cooking and taking care of stuff? It sounds like a bit of depression, par for the course in this lovely bind we're in. I've been there but mine lasted at least 3 years, even with meds. I'm better now but it was a dark time. And I'm not 100%. I still have days that I feel bad, but I can now remember on those days that it goes away by the end of the day.

Don't be afraid to voice your stuff here. I too have been afraid and when someone posts with my same issues, I get brave!