So Happy I can hardly describe it!

[catfish87 3,471]

Been on LBT a long time. I considered myself a listener on here, and not a talker for the first three years. I've started posting recently, but never started a topic.

But today I just had to do this.

I started at my Band journey in 2009. I have never had any band issues, as some may know, I did have an installation issue that was corrected. ( And yes, like others I think I have the best doctor/staff in the world. )

So I was 324 miserable, unhealthy, tired all the time pounds when I started. I am so happy to say that today.... on 3/22.. I WEIGH 222 lbs on my scale. I haven't seen those numbers in over 20 years!! Over ONE HUNDRED POUNDS LOST!

I will reach my goal of around 185 sometime late this year or early next, I don't care! NOW, after 3 1/2 years, this has become my life. I eat almost anything I want, I do exercise ( consisting 90% of the time of bike riding ) more than ever, and I feel better than I EVER remember feeling in my entire life.

So, if I could say a word of advice to the newer folks who will struggle from time to time, its this: NEVER, EVER GIVE UP! If something isn't working, change it. Be honest and firm with your doctor. For me, a properly adjusted band, is the most important thing. I couldn't diet on my own....been there, done that. THIS THING WORKS!

Thanks to all who have posted advice/encouragement/suggestions/etc. Just because we don't all agree on everything surrounding the band, we really are all after the same goal....to be healthy!

[Spaness2012 609]

Been on LBT a long time. I considered myself a listener on here, and not a talker for the first three years. I've started posting recently, but never started a topic.

But today I just had to do this.

I started at my Band journey in 2009. I have never had any band issues, as some may know, I did have an installation issue that was corrected. ( And yes, like others I think I have the best doctor/staff in the world. )

So I was 324 miserable, unhealthy, tired all the time pounds when I started. I am so happy to say that today.... on 3/22.. I WEIGH 222 lbs on my scale. I haven't seen those numbers in over 20 years!! Over ONE HUNDRED POUNDS LOST!

I will reach my goal of around 185 sometime late this year or early next, I don't care! NOW, after 3 1/2 years, this has become my life. I eat almost anything I want, I do exercise ( consisting 90% of the time of bike riding ) more than ever, and I feel better than I EVER remember feeling in my entire life.

So, if I could say a word of advice to the newer folks who will struggle from time to time, its this: NEVER, EVER GIVE UP! If something isn't working, change it. Be honest and firm with your doctor. For me, a properly adjusted band, is the most important thing. I couldn't diet on my own....been there, done that. THIS THING WORKS!

Thanks to all who have posted advice/encouragement/suggestions/etc. Just because we don't all agree on everything surrounding the band, we really are all after the same goal....to be healthy!

David,

I am in awe of your accomplishments! Thank you for your kind words, encouragement, and sharing your success. It means the world to early banded folks like me!

[Maddysgram 6,159]

Congratulations on your success! Thanks for sharing your journey and helping the rest of us.

[KAATNS 1,473]

That's so great!! Congrats.

[jcmandi 21]

Very inspiring!

[CHEZNOEL 4,061]

Congrats on your progress so far... And... if you are not married, I've seen a number of references to folks who would love to be candidates. I am happily married, but if you need ideas... just let me know!

[aeromech 202]

David,

You are a true inspiration!

[m1aman 944]

Be honest and firm with your doctor.

'Specially the honest part. Don't be afraid to tell the truth so he can make adjustments in your plan.

[50for50 72]

What an awesome achievement! You rock!

[blondegal_ 1,028]

Congrats and thanks for posting. I had a bad stressful day and reading some encouraging words such as yours is what I needed.

Thanks!

[akwright68 114]

Congratulations, and thank you for not only the sage advice but inspiration. Huge accomplishment.

[catfish87 3,471]

Thanks everyone for the kind words....I really wish everybody could feel what I'm feeling today. I'm not at goal, but I'm in control of my eating for the first time in my life....thanks to my band.....

Chez....too funny.....I'm might just have to give you a call....LOL

[Lady VS 1,147]

Aww that is AWESOME!!!! Thanks for sharing your story with us. You are so right! This was the best decision I have ever made.

[☠carolinagirl☠ 18,722]

catfish

you have inspired me and advised me and supported me for a long while now, thank you for that...reading your short this is your life was great...if any newbie or prebie or someone struggling can read your words, i am sure they will see as i do, just what being a success is about about..and that is what you are.

[mama angela 22]

Thank you so much for sharing! What an inspiring story!! Congratulations!! I bet you are so thrilled and have every right to be! I can SO hardly wait! I'm in the 5th month of my 6 month pre- surgery meetings...so it should be coming up within 2 months or so. I can hardly wait!

Thank you for your encouragement