Whela, I can talk much faster than I can type on my phone , so I will send you my personal information do a private message ...but I will say that I am in the same boat as well .I live in san antonio texas , single and no kids as well . and have 50 pounds to lose ....I've had that extra 50 pounds for at least the last 7 years . I get the same criticism .....people saying it was a waste of money , why didnt I just go to the gym ... or that I look fine the way I am . even a couple of my sisters begging me not to do it saying that I would be throwing up all the time . I was banned in march 19th . I'm still on liquids and still off of work . I'm doing fine , losing weight and im very positive about my band in my decision im getting it !today is my 9th day and I'm down 9 lbs. BMI was 31 day of surgery. I'm sure it will not stay at this rate ....but I am happy with how I feel so far . glad I found a few people who are in the same boat as I am . I read the others and I never really know how much weight they have to lose it's different when you have a lot more weight to lose as well . everything plays a part . I wish you luck and support is here if you need it . call me, email me , text me ...anytime .....Gina in San Antonio