September25

I had my surgery just over a year ago and know what you mean by some of the negative responses. I have not told most people I know because of that. I do know that after much struggle and thought that I reached the right decision to have the lap band. I have lost 100 lbs at least three different times over the years ( I am now 50) and countless other 20, 30, 40 pound times during all the different diets I have been on over the years. I finally realized that when I turned 50 that I did not want to be an obese elderly person. It is hard enough to get around when you are younger and big, but when you get older it is even worse on your body and on other people that may have to lift you when you fall or get sick. I did this for myself mainly, but I also did it for my family. One day I might become a burden and a lighter weight burden would be easier to care for. I thought about all these things because my mother came down with severe dementia and is in the nursing home. She is not a big person, she weighs about 90 lbs. But in watching some of the other residents that are obese trying to get around, it made me think about myself and my possible future. I have lost approx. 65 lbs in the last year and need to lose about 30-40 more. I weighed 276 and now weigh 211. This 65 lbs sure has made a big difference in how I feel mentally and physically. I have taken up gardening as a hobby and really enjoy it. I have never had a problem losing weight once I got started on a diet, but putting it back on was my failure every time. The lapband is my tool to help me keep the weight off. I had to admit to myself that I needed help and could not do it alone. People have their own opinions and it is hard to change them sometimes. Just tell your friend that you did what was right for you and you want her to do what is right for her and that you respect her choice and she should respect yours. Best of luck to you.