Hello, everyone. I'm new to the community. My name is Merlyn, 33 yrs. of age, not married nor children, quite yet. I've been battling with my weight for many years now. I started dieting intensely back in December 2013, so far I'm down to 305 lbs., from 345 lbs. I'm truly excited about my decision, my family members are very supportive, and the doctor's office staff are great, as well. My doctor's office is located in Oxford, Ms., and so far they have been wonderful, regarding my decision making process. I'm truly looking forward to ALL highs and lows,...to begin developing a healthier lifestyle,...to find myself,...to finally find,...Merlyn. I have a great job (with The State of Mississippi), in which I'm walking daily, and keeping my energy level high and constant. I'm praying to gain more confidence, better health, build new and lasting relationships, and continue working on myself,...being 100% happy daily. Whenever, I think about my clear/promising/bright future, ahead of myself,...I'm reminded of the Walgreen's commercial,..."On the corner of happy and healthy." I'm looking/headed to the hills, in which cometh my health. Amen. God is good. You guys,...look forward to my next success story and postings,...and please continue postings your success stories,...with words of encouragement for us ALL. I've read several success stories already, along with individual's stories like mines (Just in the beginning phrase.) Take care, in the meantime. God bless. ;) Updated on 26 Oct 2015: Well, I didn't use Oxford Bar. Center. Instead I decided on St. Dominic's, in Jackson, Ms., best decision I've ever made. My dietician, Jenny, is the best. She was very encouraging, supportive, resourceful, and developed different, meal plans, etc. I started @ 355 lbs.,..now I'm 310 lbs. I start my clear liquid, pre-op on Nov. 4. I'm so ready and happy to be completing, a long term battle of mines,...that's NO LONGER, a battle, bur a victory. When I look back and realize, how I used to eat, etc.,...I fight back tears. Luckily, God is good and my support team members are EXCELLENT!!! My doctor's name is Dr. Johnathan Atkins,...he is amazing,...listens to you really,..however; whenever you finish talking,...lol,..he tells you whatever he's going to do/has in mind. I have traveled to Jackson, Ms., from Mound Bayou, Ms.,..2 1/2 hour drive,...for over six months now,...requirement of BCBS,...but happy to see my finishing line. Will post again very soon, to share my pre-op experience. Love ? you guys,...thanks for ALL OF THE SUPPORT!!! Later. ???????? ???? ????? Updated on 26 Nov 2015: Awaiting my surgery date,...still haven't been given,...the green light to begin,...my pre-op diet,...praying for patience,...I truly hate this part,...but God is good/keeps blessing me. Updated on 21 Dec 2015: So happy, my per-op appt.,...is scheduled for January 7, 2015,...yeah!!! Probably the very next day,...I'll begin my clear liquid diet and await surgery date. So excited,...can't wait until Jan. 7. God is good. Updated on 30 Jun 2016: I'm approved for the Gastric Sleeve,....on July 27, 2016,....yes!!!! Thanks for all the support. God is good and worthy to be praised. Updated on 13 Jul 2016: First day on full solids,...going good,...not @ all super hungry,...my support team is great,...my mind is made up,...and my heart ? is strong/ready for this change,...can't wait until July 27, 2016,...let's get it cracking. Thanks for the support you guys!!! ???? ???????? Updated on 1 Aug 2016: Six days out, but I can't keep anything down. What should I do? I need some advice, now. My family is very supportive and here for me. My doctor said everything is fine, nothing is wrong with the operation. I'm very hopeful regarding my recovery and success stories. I currently do not know my current weight. Updated on 11 Aug 2016: Had my first post-op appt.,...today starting weight 355 lbs,...lost from 355-315 lbs.,...on my own,...surgery date 315 & now I'm 289 lbs.,...or pounds,...lol,...YEAH!!! I'm so happy, for the decision made and God has been good to me, throughout my recovery. No regrets, period!! Updated on 21 Oct 2016: Hi, girl. Finally, snapped some picture frames for my update. Starting weight: 355, surgery: 315, and current: 260.1,...YEAH!!! Lol,...so happy/proud of myself. Well, we chat later, here go my pics. Oh well, I brought a male Betta fish, Fred,...lol. I'm almost three months post.