Arzel Phenomenal Ivy

Hello everyone. It seems like once that I hit puberty than the pounds just keep coming on. I have been involved in many diet programs and I can't say that they didn't work. It just seems like I always gain the weight back plus some extra pounds. I'm 40 years old and ready to make a lifestyle change. I have though about the lap band procedure for quite some time but I didn't have the $375.00 so I could start the program.

In November, I finally saved up the money and turned in all the paperwork. The journey begins. I must have 6 appointments with the physician. I have 2 appointments scheduled every month. I finally will start my behavioral classes in January. The physician told me that I will probably have the surgery in February or March depending on the surgeon schedule. I'm so excited but nervous in the meantime. I have started my exercise program which is required for the procedure. Right now, I go to the gym once or twice a week but hopefully I plan to work myself to 3 to 4 times. It is progress not perfection, right?

I have 2 beautiful children which are 16 and 13. I'm worried about my daughter because she is overweight but I can help her until I help myself. We are close so I hope that she follows my footsteps. Overweight is not a good thing and it has been a battle for me for many years. I have a companion which we have been together for 23 years and he loves me for who I am but continues to support me. He does not have a weight problem but he pushes me at the gym which I wouldn't know what to do without him. He and my children are my life. I just graduated from University of Phoenix Online with Health Care Administration BS degree. I worked in the finance area at one of the local hospitals. In September 2009, I got the courage to take the coding examination and I passed. Now, I'm a Certified Coder.

Having the lap band procedure is a milestone for me and I'm excited and nervous at the same time.