There are a multitude of things that one goes through in
life that shapes the person they are, guides them into the person they are
becoming and changes their view of the world. For me that day was when I decided that I was tired of
living my life in a body that was literally killing me with every breath. At
three hundred and three pounds I was confident but uncomfortable in my own
skin. The morning of February 27, 2011 would prove to be a day that would be
etched into my world for the rest of my life.
It was five o’clock in the morning and I was on the verge of
what would prove to be the most influential experience of my existence. The
hospital was empty, cold, and lonely and I was more than nervous, I was
petrified. I kept going over all the negative possibilities in my head but
decided it would be best to think positive which was easier said than done. I
held my mother's hand as a overly cheerful nurse guided me to the preparation
room. There I was met by several other nurses, my anesthesiologist, and my
surgeon. I took deep breaths as they one by one assured me that everything
would be fine. I was informed of the
procedures over and over again so that I was clear on what the next steps would
be. My palms were sweaty, my breath labored as I told my mother goodbye with an
uneasy smile. I was helped onto a surgery table, strapped down, and told to
relax. The anesthesiologist gave me instructions to count backwards from 100. I
felt my eyes become heavy and decided to stop fighting that sleepy feeling.
This was it, I was doing it. Twenty nine years in the making I was making a
change for the better. I was choosing to live.
At this time Gastric Bypass was being done at a rapid pace.
I had seen countless celebrities, family and friends embark on the journey, but
I had no clue exactly how much my experience would affect my life in so many
ways. From the moment I left the hospital I had decided that my goal was to
take advantage of this formidable second chance. I was committed to eating
right, making better choices and staying on track. The changes in my body were
not immediately apparent to me. The scale would say I was down twenty pounds
but I didn't feel the changes that others could clearly see. I kept copious
notes on my progress and took tons of pictures to document my journey.
Fear ruled my life
for a brief moment during my transition. I questioned my decision and my
reasons for going through with the procedure but ultimately I was pleased with
my choice. I began to become an activist for fighting obesity. I started
participating in 5k runs, walks and seminars targeting getting healthy and
making better choices. It was at that moment I realized I could be a catalyst
for change. I despised the stigma attached to the surgery procedure and was
well aware that for many it was easier to deny having surgery than to be honest
due to society’s views on the matter. The misconception seemed to be that those
who chose weight loss surgery as a viable option were cheating their way thin.
I was adamant about changing that stigma especially among minorities. I talked
to anyone who would listen, and shared my story, struggles and experiences in
order to help others. Like a flood I began to receive countless questions from
friends and relatives on social networking sites who were interested in
learning about the process. I was giving advice and suggestions on losing
weight, surgery as an option, and coping with life after surgery.
It was shocking to me that people were reaching out by the
dozens. So I started a blog, and by simple word of mouth me sharing my little
experiences was helping people all over the country feel more comfortable
sharing their own. I received emails and inquiries about giving tips and
pointers. I received a multitude of support and thanks from people who were
just like me. I was being called an inspiration and that inspired me to do
more. I was more than touched, I was elated. Overnight I had learned that my
experience albeit tiny in the grand scheme of things was a big deal. I was
helping people help themselves and I was growing in the process.
The road was long, and tumultuous, but after losing 106
pounds, a few friends and a lot of negativity, it taught me so many lessons
over the course of these two years. First and foremost it taught me the value
of support. Without it there is no way I would have been as successful as I
have been. Family, friends and even strangers continued to encourage my
progress on a daily basis. I learned the value of patience, even though the
weight comes off rapidly none of it is immediate and rushing things isn't
healthy or wise when it comes to your body. I learned that helping others was
way more fulfilling and enjoyable then only accomplishing my goals. Hearing
other people’s stories and goals assisted me spiritually. It brought me joy to
know that people were making changes for the better, and were now more
comfortable being honest about their decisions. I believe the most important
thing I experienced was the value of hard work. Surgery was just a tool in my
weight loss arsenal. I still had to work out, eat right, and take care of
myself mentally.
This was far from easy; it was one of the hardest things
I've ever experienced in life. I can truly say that I was blessed not to have
any complication during this process, and I was graced with nothing but love
and support throughout its duration. Longevity would be the final lesson that I
took away from this experience. Learning the value of sustainability of mind
and body for the rest of my life and teaching others how to achieve the same. I
wouldn't change anything that has happened in the past few years. Collectively
the good and the bad produced stellar results, and lifelong lessons that won’t
soon be forgotten.
~B~
Got a comment or a question?
Leave it here or hit me up:
Sistersinsurgery00@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/shehotta
