I (Sandra) also had the Gastric sleeve surgery, my height  weight was around 450lbs my current weight is 350lbs. Wow that was harder to admit publicly than I thought it would be but like Tammy if it helps anyone it's worth it . One difference with me is I never got to the exercising point at the start of our gastric sleeve surgery I was in a wheelchair unable to walk and was out of breath just getting around inside the house. I did with the weight lose from surgery begin to be able to walk and breathe better. I was just improving when simply walking across my kitchen my Achilles' tendon tore putting me in a walking boot for six months, but I couldn't walk in the boot because I was still  so obese the boot rubbed my foot causing skin breakdown and putting me off my feet again the boot also makes your balance horrible and I had to resort to a walker for support. I am out of the boot now but still using the walker outside of my home because of balance issues.  Why does a non athletic person acquire an Achilles' tendon tear ? Obesity maybe or maybe lipedema and lymphedema ? I too now am in compression garments 24/7 and will begin using a pump soon as daily routine. Looking back I now know earlier diagnosis could have keep me more mobile longer. I plan to honestly share my feelings through the journey as to be of the most benefit to others, that being said I hurt daily, I struggle with everything from dressing to bathing and even simply walking, I am often depressed and disgusted and sometimes want to give up but by the grace of God I keep going because I have a 23 yr old boy with cerebral palsy that is totally dependent upon me along with three other amazing wonderful Sons who too often have to help me more than I am able to help them. My latest inspiration is an adorable 3yr old grandson that I want to see grow into a man. My husband has also stood by my me although at times I think they all question at times is this all for real or is she just lazy? That is one of the most painful things seeing them work to help me when I know they are tired or would rather be doing other things. I know without a doubt I have been looked at as lazy, gluttoness, and simply not trying by many who have been bold enough to say so as well as those that verbally keep quiet but still you know they think your disgusting. If I do go out to shop I have to ride on a scooter because I cannot even with my walker  hold out to make it for very long and believe me people look at me like her fat self needs to walk, if only they knew but would they believe? That is why we must raise awareness.