Madam Medusa

Well, I can't believe I found this forum! I didn't know that such a group existed and I am so thankful to have found you all. I am getting my band removed next week after having it since April 2006. I actually don't have a choice, the band itself has a "leak" so out it comes! I have had problems the past year with throwing up everytime I eat, pain, being able to only eat crap food and after losing 40 pounds I have gained back about 30. I guess I am fortunate that insurance basically has to cover it but I'm depressed and uncertain about replacing it. I don't really want to and was kind of relieved when the surgeon said that she wants to take it out, let my stomach rest, and then if I want it back in she would do a separate surgery. I absolutely do not want a gastric bypass or anything, it is the band or nothing however I'm scared about going it alone. I can tell myself that I've hit rock bottom, this is it, I will have to get on track, etc. but I feel like I'm just fooling myself since I've been overweight for 23 years and tried everything. Anyway, I have to run but I'm looking forward to reading more and getting advice from you all.