Longhorn

Wow, did I take the "easy way out" when I had a tubal ligation 23 years ago? Wasn't four kids enough? LOL! Or when I had LASIK six years ago? I should still be wearing glasses, I guess! And what's this about the band doing the work? On every other thread on this board, I've read that we do the work, with the help of the band. So whether it's the band or the elliptical or walking our dogs or the Atkins diet -- I mean, they are all tools but isn't it our own effort that results in the losses? I'll have no problem saying that I'm exercising portion control. And hopefully exercising. End of story! Y'all are a great bunch of folks and I'm learning more every day. I'm ready to start the testing phase. It shouldn't take too long as I'm self-pay. I can't wait to join you!

I'm still in the research phase but I did Medifast four years ago and faced a similar question about telling people. If some people thought a fasting diet was drastic, wait till they hear about this! Anyway, my reasons for keeping this to myself is mostly because I have a family of "know-it-alls" -- and I say that in the most loving way possible, because I tend to be one, too. They will love and support me but if something goes against their views, they have no hesitation to speak out, even when they don't have any knowledge on the subject -- just opinions. My husband and my children, thankfully, aren't like that. They may have questions but they're not trying to debate me. They know that if I'm considering something, that I have or will do the research. I'm not into fads and my research into Lap-Band Surgery has convinced me that this is not a fad. I also like keeping it to myself because part of the fun of losing weight is when others notice. I know they're not just trying to be nice if they comment on my weight loss without knowing what's going on. I will eventually let people know if I choose to do this but I will tell them on my schedule and I will be proud to tell them!

Wendell: At first, I thought you were posting a list of questions people have asked and I was thinking, Dang, I wish I had the answers to these questions! And then I scrolled down and there were your answers! Thank you so much. I've been reading a lot and still found information in your list that I hadn't read before. :rose:

Credit where credit is due! The article was posted by sewenup1: http://www.lapbandtalk.com/f18/new-here-decision-made-41972/#post576619 And I agree with your assessment. :rose:

Nothing wrong. Just the way of message boards, I suppose. Some posts get responses and others don't. I'm way behind you but good luck!

Great article! Thanks!

What a great board! I'm learning from y'all and going to a seminar on Tuesday. I'm a little concerned that I won't qualify, even as private pay, because my BMI is *only* 35. I've had some knee pain a couple of times that required me to see an orthopedic surgeon but it subsided before I had to do anything drastic. I've also been advised to lose weight by my doctor when he couldn't find any medical reason for my fatigue. I guess I'll find out more soon. Thanks and hi!