I started in 2009, I got the lap band, at first there were a lot of people saying that I was lazy because I had surgery for weight loss, and my family talked about it but the best advice that I was given was by my wife she told me not to pay attention and remember I went through the surgery for me, not to please anyone and that nobody help pay for it. I did it because I had a few medical issues. I was 320 pounds the week of my surgery in February of 2009 I am now in 162 pounds on 2025. I don’t have any medical issues. Remember why you chose this journey and be happy for yourself.