I decided to have my gastric sleeve due to my worsening arthritis. I was on blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride medication. I was taking large doses of anti-inflammatory medication daily and prescription pain pills 4-5 times a week. I was taking 4 large shots of insulin daily and oral medication for my diabetes. Since my surgery and weight loss I am off all my meds except my insulin, which has gone down to one small shot a day with the possibility of coming off it completely. I am now able to shop 2-3 hours without riding a cart or stopping to rest due to pain. For me this was the right decision for my health. I am planning to retire in the next two years and I am now looking forward to an active retirement.