There were also testimonies from people who had done the surgery a year or more ago. The testimonials were the hardest part, I think. I am concerned that I don't have the stamina or willpower to maintain the structure that will be required in my life. The diet and exercise regimen these people are doing is intimating. It was good to hear the parts of their stories that suggest they aren't perfect, but the surgery is a tool...not a solution. Diet and exercise are the key. Those are the two things I have struggled with most of my life and that is what scares me.
Also, the food options I have will be very limited. There are things I will absolutely not be able to eat anymore. That will be a huge mind game for me. I am used to eating what I want, when I want, in whatever portion I want. Eating things like sweets and fried foods will literally make me ill. While I don't have a big problem giving up fried foods, the lack of chocolate consumption will be a huge mind game. I eat chocolate literally every day. How do I break habits like this?
I am encouraged by the friendliness and the sternness of the dietitian. She obviously cares, but doesn't give way when there's an issue at hand. I look forward to meeting her formally. The whole team will be a big help, I think. They all seem pretty passionate about what they do. It's a good combination with the knowledge they have. I am excited at the prospect of having a whole team at my disposal.
Now...how to I start the mind game in advance? How do I reconcile my food issues? How do I decide whether the surgery is the kick start I need? Prayers!!! :)
