I am 50 years old and since I was in primary I have suffered with my weight. I think I was just one of those people.
Throughout my life i have been lucky enough to enjoy the gym and maintain my weight at a steady 18 stone (again classed as overweight but manageable for me). 2 years ago I had a serious asthma attack and was admitted to hospital. As asthma had been a big part of my health issues through my life I managed with it and coped. Whilst in hospital and after being discharged I deteriorated, being diagnosed with sleep apnoea, COPD and now suffering seriously with back issues and diabetes.
I have worked all my life but due to the sleep apnoea I was becoming forgetful, losing concentration when finally my employer let me go and my life fell apart.
Spending most of my days now not very mobile and suffering depression I have agreed with doctors weight loss surgery is my way forward and is something that will give me back my life. Finding out that it is a minimum of a year to wait on the NHS, I fear my heart lungs and body may not take that weight.
I have £2000 of my own money in savings and am appealing to the nation to help me raise the rest of the money I need, £4000 to fund the surgery.
I would like to produce a blog page documenting the journey i take including the weight loss.
My aim following this with the time I have is to hopefully start a charity or begin fundraising for those in a similar position to me and those in need of surgery sooner than the NHS can offer.
I hope this reaches someone who might have the empathy for me and spare funds to aid in my quest to extend my life. I am a proud man and if i had the funds i would not be here asking this of anyone.
My only hope is I can live a healthier, happy life and help those who are need of life saving operations.
Thank you so much for just reading my story and any help you give.

Carl Elliott.