LJCBF

Exercise plan is your best bet for many reasons - its always calories n calories out regardless of bariatric tool. Remember you are on journey - doing battle - The Victory isn't about doing Extaordinary things It IS about doing Ordinary things DAILY - hit me up if you need help
Lee

For me thinking in terms of Failure around weight is natural... however, I found that moving away from that thought process (easier said than done) was helpful. I think in terms of tools... my band is one tool. My exercise and mental plan/strategy 30 seconds to Victory is another and critical. My sister has also used it and is down 180 lbs so far - I have band, see my profile. Let me know if I can help. You may find my sisters blog helpful http://www.300poundsdown.com
Hope in Your Future is Power in Your Present!

CONGRATS! That is a huge step and you really are showing insight when you point out the mental piece vs the physical piece regarding your training for the 5k - continue to draw on the power of your 5k... you RAN the WHOLE Way ... thats a big big deal ... Consistency and incremental increases will launch you to the next level... 30 seconds more : )