Tina B. “I don't miss the old me at all!!” Surgery Date: June 2004 Surgery: Gastric Bypass What was life like before your surgery? I couldn't fit on roller coasters. I was tired a lot. I was too embarrassed to go out with my family. If we went to restaurants I would wait for a booth. I did not want to be at the table in the middle of the room. My husband saw me as "perfect" but I didn't feel that way. He bought me sexy lingerie, but I was uncomfortable wearing it. I was embarrassed to go to company functions with him-- I felt like everyone was staring at me. Any time I heard people laughing I felt like it was at me. I had to prop my foot up to tie my shoes. I was nervous sitting on other people’s furniture, afraid it would break. I hated that I hung off both sides of a chair. I was terrified that someday I would be a total embarrassment to my daughter, who was 1 when I had the surgery. I was too embarrassed to make play dates for my daughter. I thought that all the other moms would just be staring at me and wondering how I let myself get so big. I had irregular periods that contributed to my infertility issues. I was miserable, embarrassed by myself, embarrassed for my family and depressed. How was your experience with Barix? WONDERFUL!!!!! My doctor was great. He was blunt about what life held for me if I didn't change my ways. The staff was WONDERFUL in making me feel like I made the right decision and cheering me on with the breathing and walking you have to do right after surgery. They were positive - almost like my personal coaches. How is your life after surgery? Well, I was able to conceive my son without medical help, whereas with our daughter it took 3 years of meds and infertility treatments. I am more energetic and able to play on the playground WITH my kids (5 and 2), instead of watching them. I ride roller coasters. I fit into airplane seats. I wear the lingerie Hubby buys me. I am comfortable making play dates for my kids. I don't feel that I embarrass my daughter when I go to her school. I enjoy shopping! My confidence level has soared, but I still remember how far I have come. I don't think I would be here today if it weren't for Barix... and I don't think my son would be here, either.  What would you tell someone considering Barix? DO IT, DO IT, DO IT, DO IT. You will NOT regret it! I don't miss the old me at all!!