Thanks so much for the wisdom and depth of insight you are offering teacher5thgrade and lapbandana. I have been reading things from any sight I can get my hands on. I realize that band slippage can be an issue and the time of "band hell" won't be good as well. I am concerned about those things. However, I am more concerned about being able to stand not being able to eat all I want etc. My 17 year old son said something last night that openerd my eyes. I shared with Him my concerns about missing being able to eat a bunch and wondering if I could put up with all the restrictions. He said, "Think about it, the benefits will make you forget what what you think you will be missing. You will be so happy that you can get around better and feel so much better without all the pain. The benefits will be so great that what you will be giving up will be minor in comparison." I don't think I am at rock bottom. But I do not want to get to that point before I do something. I want to show some wisdom in living. I weigh 344lbs and am suffering with back issues as well as other comorbidities. Maybe I am at rock bottom?? Your thoughts?