Hey guys!

My name is Krystina and I am 23 years old. After several failed attempts to lose weight on my own and with the assistance of various diet and exercise programs, I decided in April to consult a surgeon about having lap band surgery. Per my insurance, I do have to do a physician supervised 6 month diet and exercise program, but that should be the only major hoop I have to jump through prior to getting approval for the surgery.

I'm really excited to be joining this community and meeting some people who are going through similar struggles. People in my life either at work or in my personal life can be a little less than helpful a lot of times and it's seriously like they don't even stop to think about what they are saying before they spit out a bunch of word vomit.

Anyway, I look forward to talking to you all soon! For anyone interested I am also going to start regularly documenting my experiences and progress on Youtube. The first couple of videos are already posted at:

Welcome to LBT forum! I just finish my 6mths of hoop jumping. Being banded Oct 15.

The time will go by really quick. I wasn't happy at first about waiting, but it turned out to be a blessing. It gave me 6mths to learn all that I could about the LB. It's not as simple as having surgery and weight just drops off. It takes work.

This forum has been like an on line class for me. Lots of knowledge, inspiration & support.

Best wishes on your WL journey!

Post often!

Best wishes for a successful journey...you're off to a great start!

Good for you, wish I had done it at 23 instead of 47! But still glad I did it.

I agree, in that 6 months get educated. Knowledge about the lap band is a key to success!

Best of Luck!

Go for it! I too, wish I had done it years ago!

Good luck to you! You've done your research, you will do great!

Welcome!!! I'm fairly new too. I was considering doing youtube videos too.

Congrats.......I LOVE LOVE this site. I am learning so much. I have completed everything and it is in review with my insurance company. I am so excited......wish I was having it done tomorrow! Congrats and good luck!!

I can so relate to your video and comments people have made to me, negative thoughts and comments about loose skin etc. Good luck on your journey. I'm 3 months post op so I'm fairly new. Still learning. We can do this!!!

Congratulations on beginning your journey. I feel like I can really relate to you as well. I will be banded shortly after my 23rd Birthday on Nov 16. I have been struggling with my weight since I was about 10 years old and have tried several different programs and have been successful on losing the weight but not being able to keep it off. I'm so greatful for the opportunity and am very eager to start my new healthy life. Thanks for posting the video, very encouraging!

Welcome!!! I'm fairly new too. I was considering doing youtube videos too.

JhonnieB--I feel that documenting on Youtube is extremely important for people who are not afraid to put their experiences out there, partly to hold yourself accountable and largely to help others considering weight loss surgery. Either way, your experience is serving as valuable information for others--an inspiration when you succeed and things to watch out for when you struggle. And since I personally don't have the support I need at home, I've already met some people sharing similar experiences that help! Let me know if you start a Youtube channel and I will be sure to follow it!

And thanks to everyone who has responded! I didn't expect quite so much feedback! I look forward to learning everything I can through this website and your personal experiences! And I can't wait to see success stories!