Yesterday I wrote about the Authentic Friendships Bible study. I talked about my struggle with being capable of writing something like this. Today, I'm going to share something that I'd rather not… well, I'm excited about it, but I know it's going to create some comments that I may not want.
I considered whether I'd share this and I went to one of my trusted girlfriends and her words to me were “Girl, you KNOW you're going to tell everyone.” And she's right — I will tell everyone. I don't have that KEEP IT QUIET gene.
I'm having weight loss surgery today — actually the official name is Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy — but weight loss surgery is easier to type and say.
This isn't something I take lightly. I've studied, researched and educated myself over the last year. I've considered options. I've prayed over this decision and I am at peace with this choice. I've been on more diets than I can count. My weight goes down 2o and up 25. And I have more to lose than just 20lbs – much more. I'm fat — officially I'm considered Obese with an unhealthy Body Mass Index. I have several health conditions that are directly related to my weight, but I'll stop there because I tend to overshare — and really, you probably aren't incredibly interested in my medical health.
I'm just sharing the journey. And that's what I'm going to do from time to time — share the journey. I'm not just having surgery, I'm changing my lifestyle — completely. I'm excited to take this step!
I know you may have an opinion on my decision and I respect it, but while you're reading this I'm in surgery. I ask for your prayers and your support — and feel free to join me on this journey. I promise it will be interesting!! I won't hold back — and I'll be authentic.
I'm trusting God!!
Praying for you! Thank you for sharing your journey.
Praying God’s best for you through this journey. You know your heart and I know you have prayed this through. So here’s to a healthier new you. God bless you Mary and thank you for your authenticity.
Mary – I’ve taken this journey, and I understand the concern about what to share…too much…too little…what will folks thing/say, etc. But, as you said, this is about you, your health and your taking control of your life! I applaud you. I pray with you. And I hope to see you in July at She Speaks so I can give you a great big (albeit gentle) hug!! Love and blessings girl!!
Good for you, Mary! Will be praying that this works for you. I seem to be losing weight and I’m not even trying. But, that will happen when there isn’t a whole lot I can eat. See, I have sensitivities to gluten, beans, and dairy. That pretty much leaves me with corn, rice, meat, most veggies, and fruit. There are a lot of days I look at food and say, “hmm…nope, don’t want it.” Anyway, not that you wanted to hear about me, but there you go! Love you, Mary! May God bless you!
I love you, Mary Snyder! I was stopping by to comment on yesterday’s post (which I will do shortly) and saw this.
I’m praying for you today. I know you have asked for God’s guidance on this, so no doubt He is going to take good care of you and bring success to you.
I miss you tons!!
Looking forward to seeing your progress.
Love and blessings,
Dori
I am here if you need to talk after..been there! 🙂 God bless Sista!
Praying for you Mary! That was a big decision but if you felt like God reaffirmed it and you are at peace with it, then who can argue with that?! I pray all goes well, you have a quick recovery, you are surrounded by supporters and encouragers and that you will soon reap the benefits of the surgery and feel healthier than ever very soon! With God by your side you will feel transformed inside and out. 🙂
Prayers and love sister!! Love you!
You have more than enough tools in your treasure chest of love and life, to know how to navigate through this journey! I LOVED your input on the Made to Crave series….I took it as authentic and full of hope for all of us who can struggle with weight, whatever our optimal health definition may be, and how we see ourselves. AND,this isn’t about you not being enough, or any other thing someone may feel the need to ‘share’ with you. This, my sister friend, is about you. You and your relationship with you and Jesus! I am continuing to partner with you and your journey of success and healing! ?
Robbin…thank you for these beautiful words for Mary. I couldn’t have said it any better.
Robbin – WOW! Thanks for that comment. I struggled with my journey because their are days when surgery feels like a copout. Today isn’t one of those days. And your words give me inspiration!
Love you, Mary! I’m proud of you and I’m praying for a successful surgery and a quick recovery.
You go girl! here’s to a fast recovery and a happy, healthy Mary!!
You go girl! Here’s to a fast recovery and a healthy, HAPPY, Mary!!
Praying for you and that this procedure works for you. You are beautiful inside and out. Get healthy for you, as I know God loves you no matter what state your mind is at or what your body looks like.
I can’t wait to watch you on this journey! 🙂 Love you!
Mary, I pray your surgery and recovery go well. Looking forward to following you on this journey. I wish I could afford to do it and am so excited for you!
I am so proud of our courage. We love you and will pray for you. You are already beautiful so you’ll be adding the WOW factor.
Prayers and LOVE, girlfriend… and big, hugemongous hugs!
XOXO,
Gwen
Praying for you Mary! Love ya!! ((((hugs))))
Lord,
Please cause Mary to feel your loving presence with her on every baby step of this journey. And, thank you for carrying her through the giant step she just took. Please, Lord, give her patience with her body as she recovers. Give her the strength to lean hard on You and on her support system as she gets back on her feet. Thank you for the delight of knowing such a lovely person. Bless her big, sweet Lord!
Amen