Goodbye, LapBand.

RIP.

It's been quite the journey.

I was banded on January 10, 2011. I weighed 275 pounds that day.

In September of 2012, my band had slipped and I underwent emergency surgery to unbuckle it temporarily.

After a great deal of thought, I made the decision to "rebuckle" the band after gaining 40 pounds.

On May 17, 2013, I went under the knife for the 3rd time and was "re-banded."

Things seemed to be going well, but suddenly took a turn for the worst.

I couldn't deny that I had the same pains as before.

I couldn't eat much food or find the energy to get out of bed.

On August 8, 2013, I had emergency surgery to remove my LapBand for good.

Now that the weight is off, I need to keep it off. FOR GOOD.

I'm petrified of failing, but I will not make it an option.

I've come too far to go back to my old ways.

Band or no band - I have, I can, and I will conquer obesity.

Thank you, bandsters, for all of the love, support, and encouragement you have given me over the last few years.

I was granted another shot at life.

Thank you for being a part of my journey.