I debated long and hard about whether or not to share this story with everyone–you have no idea!

On December 4, I am having bariatric bypass surgery (called Roux En Y). I’m hoping it will help me lose 100 lbs and to keep it off for good. It’s something I have wanted for so long, and I’m excited and scared all at once.

My biggest worry about going public was how people might judge me (“How did she let herself go?” “Seriously? She’s taking the easy way out?”). Bypass surgery illicits strong opinions on both sides. Let me clear. I am having this surgery because I have struggled with obesity for such a long time and it is taking a huge toll on my health. I’m 53 and I am determined to be as healthy as possible for the rest of my life. And, if I’m being honest, I’m flat-out excited about looking fabulous in clothes–after 25 years of hating the way I look, every minute or every day.

I finally decided to share this journey after standing up at a microphone in front of 450 of my photography peers in September and asking my mentor, Sue Bryce, what I should do. Talk about announcing it to the world. I’m still stunned that I did that, but I followed my instinct and got the answer I needed from someone I respect a great deal. She told me to go for it, embrace it and celebrate it.

Sue’s the kind of person that you “lean in” to when she’s talking. If she offers advice, you take it ’cause it’s solid gold. One of the most impactful things I ever heard her say was, “Your weight is the least interesting thing about you.” Mind blown.

So here I am. pulling up the curtain to expose a very personal part of my life. If you asked me 25 years ago, if I’d like to discuss my weight, I would have found somewhere to hide and lick my wounds. The years have kind of knocked the wind out of me, and I know I’m not fooling anybody about my food addiction and everything goes with it. Quite frankly, I’m way more interested in being authentic and honest about who I am. The world needs a lot more honesty and a lot less “image”.

So love me…like me…hate me…or ignore me, it’s okay. Just know that I’ll be here if you want listen to my story.