Oh My Goodness! Don't get me started on the things I have been told over the last year. I have been on a supervised program for almost a year and surgery is right around the corner. Everybody is an expert, especially the ones who have been thin all their lives! So many have reminded me that people DIE having this surgery! Excuse me, but do you think I am an idiot? I didn't just put my name on a piece of paper, fold it up and put it in a box! I have researched this idea 9 ways till Sunday. I now enjoy replying, "Yes, I am aware of the risk, but I am also aware that my risk of dying from my diabetes, elevated Cholesterol, high blood pressure and sleep apnea are far greater than the risks associated with surgery! Good LUCK!