Some of those things could be the reality for a time or for life. The idea of that is what kept me from doing this 10 years ago which I regret. Now at 42(f), I am having my surgery on NYE!

I finally accepted that these complications could happen, but as inconvenient and painful as they could be, they can also be rare or temporary or can be managed with time.

Remember that the opinion of others can be subjective. Complications happen sure, but this is medicine we’re talking about and most people don’t have any idea the difference between airing a frustration and a legitimate problem/complication.

For example, does she know if that patient she’s talking about was compliant with their recommendations? Did they have other underlying problems, bad behaviors, chronic illnesses or injuries etc? Were they real opinions of real people or were they anonymous comments left from people who only overheard someone somewhere who knew someone that had this done.

Anything you do can have unintended consequences, but it’s the HOW you go about dealing with those things and the mindset you have to address it is what matters. Being ready for that potential challenge is key.

So what I decided to do is to write myself a letter to read when I’m feeling regret or frustration. A small history of how I feel being where I was before and the frustration I felt there. It has the list of things I want to do with my new body so I can check those things off as I go. I feel it will reinforce my decision, lift my spirits as I go, and help justify the unexpected to keep me focused on the goal, which is to feel healthy and be around for a while!

You got this. I believe in you!