lonnilon33

When I got news I was pregnant, I was terrified and happy all at the same time.  I was young, 18, freshman in college and unsure of what to expect.  Being that young I did not take care or manage my weight, I thought "after I have the baby all the weight will fall off".  Well, that didnt happen, and 100 pounds later, I found myself in an up hill battle with my weight.  I have joined LA Weight Loss (twice), did weight watchers, joined fitness clubs and nothing remained permanent.  The most weight I lost was 75 pounds, but then I gained it back and then some. 
 
My story is no different than yours, well maybe a little, but it is one that we all relate too.  I had to learn how to cope with not being in a relationship, I was always used to having a guy around or always being hit on.  Being a "big girl" was a proud thing, I never had problems getting my man, that is until I began losing my confidence.  Men will tell you that they cannot injure your self-confidence, but they can.  Surviving three abusive relationships, one that ended in a tragic death, not only took a toll on my mental, but always my eating.  You tend to ignore your feelings in a bowl of pasta, or pint of ice cream, you don't go out anymore, or even enjoy those little walks you used to take.  Learning to cope with my emotional distresses has now allowed me to recongnize not only my worth, but that I can eat healthy and enjoy life again, even as a "big girl"!!!
 
My journey for lap band began in about 2004, I started the process, but moved to Atlanta before the approval or surgery.  I picked back up January, 2011 and began seeing my current surgeon February or March of 2011.  Now almost nine months later I have my surgery date, and if all goes well, my surgery will be approved by the insurance and I will be on my way.  The difference is now I am doing it for health and life reasons, not for looks or confidence.  I am doing this for me and my daughter, I want to be there when she has children and when her children have children.  Once we move past the exterior of our appearances and appreciate ourselves for who we are, then we can learn to love ourselves again and change our lives for no one but YOU!!!