Linda**

Good Morning L.Vine, Here is one vote for the best thing I have ever done for myself! It was a very difficult dicission for me because I am "self pay." This is my story: I saw an old friend and could not believe it was really her.We had worked together and often talked about our struggle with our weight. She was 100 pound lighter than a year before. I went home and told my Husband about her.I left it at that knowing we could not afford it. A couple weeks later my Husband saw an ad on TV about the surgery.He looked at me and asked if that was what I wanted to do. Of course ,I said YES ,as soon as we win the lottery. He came over to me and said," if this surgery only gives me one more day with you it is worth it." I did my homework and was banded Dec12, 2007. I am down 110 pounds and feel like I am 25 ( I am really 48.)My Mom is super obese and very sick because of it. I saw myself following her to the sad place. It has been difficult at times, but I am very happy I did it. Now when I win that lottery I have a couple people picked out to gift them a band. I wish you the very best. It really is a wonderful journey. I have posted pictures if you would like to take a look. Please stay in touch!!!

Oh ...You really shouldn't feel that way! You are winning the battle. Life is about the big picture. You are going through a lot right now so don't be so hard on your self! Hug your babies and yourself, put a smile on everyday and all the pieces will come together! Thinking of you and sending good wishes your way!

Hello Dec 2007 bandsters, I just found this web site. I sure wish I would have known about it 14 months ago. It is so wonderful to hear how others are doing with their bands. I am proud of every single one of you! Please add me to you 2 year anniversary celebration. I was banded Dec 12, 2007. I have lost 110 pounds and have a new life! Nothing could have prepared me for such success. I didn't think there was anything that would work for me! I am so grateful!

You sound alot like me before being banded.I had tried and failed soooo many times that I was afraid to tell people that I was getting banded. I was worried what some would say if I failed AGAIN after spending so much money on myself. I am here to tell you it works! Remember it is a "tool." You must use it right for it to work , but if you do it is wonderful! It is not easy to get used to the small portions I use a cup saucer for a dinner plate and still dish up more than I can eat. My family calls me a cheap date. HA Ha!! I am 47, was banded 14 months ago and have lost 110 pounds! Everything is easier from tying my shoes to giving the dog a bath! I am so greatful for this procedure! It has changed my life! You should see the looks I get from people that haven't seen me for awhile! Start smiling :eek: you are preparing to change your life!!

I also had chest pain after eating. I now recognize it as being overful. Try eating slower and chewing better. Doing this allowed me to tune in to my body and realize that I have had enough to eat before I get to that point of having chest pain. I was banded 14 months ago and have lost 110 pounds. 20pounds left to go! I wish you the very best in your journey!

Wendy, Hang in there Girl. It will be much easier to control your hunger after you are banded and get it filled. I feel full after only 4 or 5 bites now. I had my surgery 14 months ago and have lost 110 pound!! I have always had a big weight problem and a big appitite to go with it! This band has given me a new life! No regrets here!