I have dieted my entire life with great success, regaining, no success, yo yo, you name it, I did it.

Last summer I was diagnosed with type II Diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid problems, high cholesterol, and arthretic knees.

The doctor said "if you lose 50 pounds your health will increase so much". I tried. I did so many diets but with the medical problems it just wasn't working.

At 52, 5'3", 243 lbs......on March 17, 2009 I decided to have bariatric bypass surgery to control my health. I wish I didn't have to take this course of action, however, my health was at risk and it was my last resort.

Yes, I am losing weight and my health has improved significantly.........but I wish I could have stuck to a diet when I was younger and never found myself in this position in my 50's.

I am here not to encourage anyone to have surgery, but to encourage everyone to stick to a diet and take care of your health before it's too late.

Peggy