[Eleni]

I am interested in what others think

[Christian at home]

Well I am torn in this area myself..... I have a VERY GOOD friend who had to have it done for health reasons...she had a very bad back and was confined to a wheelchair mostly and had alot of pain in just her daily life in general, she weigh 300 or close to it and was praying very hard for an answer to her situation, when her doctor recomened it, actually he advised her that it may be her only chance to get back to being able to walk and carry on a normal life, she prayed and found it to be the right answer for her, she had it done last December and has lost over 150 pounds or so and is walking and looking great, The surgery was painful but well worth it, she is also my age so she can now focus on becoming a mother and being able to raise the family she will be blessed with soon enough In her case it was definatly called for so I do not knock the procedure in her case at all, and I will be the first to celebrate with her and I think she should be rewarded at all costs She didnt just have the surgery and not change her habits, she has changed for life and has a whole new outlook on life and food, I can say she is definatly an inspiration to me and an answered prayer I smile at when it pops in mind.

On the other hand, If you are perfectly healthy and able to do it the old fashined way then I think it wouldnt be such a good idea to have the procedure done at all, The reason being is that is is not a natural and normal way AND it is dangerous and risky , now dont get me wrong, they have changed it alot and it is alot less complicated than it used to be, But before even considering such a thing I suggest you speak to a doctor and see if he thinks you are a candidate for it, and discuss it with him, Then for sure you should pray and proceed if it is needed and if not there are definatly other ways to reach your goals, It takes longer but the results are just as rewarding...maybe even more

that is just my opinion and thoughts on the matter...Hope it doesnt offend anyone, I am just trying to be honest and help

[shortstack]

My son's daycare owner is about to undergo it. I myself don't think I could do it, but she feels like she doesn't have any other way. When she gets sad or upset lately she either eats, or drinks. She doesn't want to do anything usually, or go anywhere. But she still does, when she really wants to or is made to (i'm not sure). Her mother had it done years ago, and the one she is currently thinking of isn't as extendsive as her mothers. I myself don't see me being able to not eat any sugars. But, if a person is comfortable and only feels this is the last hope, go for it.
The other part of me, totally agress with Christy, I like the old fashion way, I truely believe when we get totally series with changes, and help from above, we can do anything.
Wendy