So last Thursday, I went to the mandatory information session that is required by my surgeon in order to start the process. It was very informative, however, somewhat repetetive to me since I have been researching the Lap Band procedure for the last two years. It was great getting to meet the program director and learn about the different surgeons in the program and their surgical preferences. Although I had already picked my surgeon, I felt better about my choice after the session.

One downer was, one woman who was sitting near me, made the comment that "I clearly did not need bariatric surgery and was taking up appointment time for those who DID need it..." :bored: :wub: :confused:

I was so upset. I did respond by saying, that she did not know me, nor know my health issues for wanting/needing to get this surgery done.

After that, I felt a panic attack coming on because I looked around, and I was clearly, the tallest, youngest, and "smallest" weight-wise in the room. I kept thinking that the surgeon is going to meet me and laugh and send me on my way. All because of this woman and her comment!! After taking a breather and finishing my paperwork, I was calmed and the session began.

Anyway, next step is my meeting with my surgeon on 2/18. Can't wait and hope that woman isn't there that same day!

According to your ticker you have 75 lbs to get rid of. Yes, people do that on there own but they also gain it all back plus some within a year. She had no right to say that. If you have been looking at this for the past two years you have obviously given it a lot of thought. If I went by the average age of people in my docs office, I would be too young to have the surgery and I am 37! You do what you need to do for you.:confused:

I know how you feel. When I went for my EKG last week the tech asked me why I was having weight loss surgery and that I didn't need to have it. She said that I was not that big and that I just needed to get motivated and exercise more like on The Biggest Loser! I wanted to tell her to mind her own business but I just said that my weight and BMI say that I do qualify for the surgery! I wish they would just do their job!

so a year ago I attended my info session and like you I was the tallest and youngest in the room -a lady in her 60s told me I must carry my weight well.

I just smiled and said I'm 'firm packed'

The bottom line is I was 6 ft tall and weighed 378 - no matter how curvy the hourglass is - I'm still overweight

You will have nay sayers but it sounds as if you have done great research. Only you and your medical team knows what's best for you.

I must say the period you start the program with the surgeon to the tme surgery is scheudled is very much a vetting period - to see if this is what you really want. Don't get fristrated its all for your benefit.