Hi Everyone - I'm so excited but also very nervous. I have been going through trying to get the approval process with insurance for about 6 months now. My primary doctor made me go through the dietician meeting, the psychological exam, and attempted weight loss attempts before he would submit the paperwork for just the referral to the lap band doctor. I finally got through all that and then had to start the second step of the process - consultation classes, dietician classes, doctors talks, weigh ins. Did all that and now finally just waiting for the insurance approval for the surgery!!! Couldn't be happier and I'm glad I've had to go through all this because it gave me time to really be sure this is what I want to do.

Now I'm just waiting to hear that the insurance has approved the surgery - I have Anthem Blue Shield in California - HMO. I'm at a 41 BMI and am ready to do this!!! I have set my expectation that I will have this surgery by the end of January 2011 so if it happens sooner than that, I will be excited.

I had always been thin until I turned 21, got pregnant, and gained 100 pounds. I never lost it and then just decided to give up and eat whatever I wanted. I went from 115 pounds at 5'7 to 248 pounds and somehow have lost an inch in height.

My knees hurt when I walk - especially up stairs. My back hurts when I stand too long, and I am out of breath all the time. I want to be able to shop at "normal" clothing stores and not worry about breaking a chair when I sit in it.

I cannot wait to get this procedure and start the process!!! I am aiming to get to 140 pounds but my first goal will be 199 pounds!!! Can't wait!!!

Congratulations! I would say that it is healthy to be nervous, this is an exciting time! Keep in touch and let us know how you are doing!

Thanks Thsisme! I need all the support I can get