I got the Lap Band 4 years ago. I went through a traumatic situation right after. Then shortly began a new career that is very intense. Shortly after that began working the night shift for 5-6 nights, 12hr shifts. It's all been so much and just adjusting has kept me from seeing doctor and focusing on losing weight. I made appt for 7/18 and can't wait to tell doctor to lets move foward. He refused to fill me in the past due to the heavy drinking I was doing. I have stopped and ready. But where do I start?

Take some time to yourself and really think about what your goals are. Health? Weight loss? Exercise? I find if I start one thing at a time, then add the next in after you are comfortable with the first one. For example, start with looking at food as a survival need, eat only what you need to keep you going, no more. Write down everything you eat. Drink 8 glasses of water a day. You can do this even before you see the doctor. After you have mastered the basic eating routine add in exercise. Start slow, walking a few times a week. Make it a must do routine. Increase slowly, as you start to feel better and lighter, you'll be able to add in more exercises or more time. I personally hate to exercise, so I bike ride, do Zumba, swim or walk. It's a chore for me and will always feel that way, but I have to admit I feel better after I do it. The stress of the day seems to go away. Good luck and you'll be losing in no time!

_{Thank you. You helped me feel encouraged. Right now in life I can say my number one reason to really want to lose weight at this time in my life is health. I could not say that a few years ago. So ok, I will start there. I just quit drinking alcohol a few days ago because my body can't do it anymore and I feel the best in a long time. Everyone tells me I look so refreshed. The calories i got from 1-2 bottles of wine a day was outrages. It's going to be a hard road because that was a routine i did after work. Working night shift has also taken a toll on my body. Beginning Sept i have switched to day shift although I will take a huge money cut.But my health is suffering with high blood pressure and sleep apnea. You are the first person to even discuss all this with. Thank you. I feel I just released a load. I need support so bad or I'm going to dye.}

_{Thank you}

_{Thank you. You helped me feel encouraged. Right now in life I can say my number one reason to really want to lose weight at this time in my life is health. I could not say that a few years ago. So ok, I will start there. I just quit drinking alcohol a few days ago because my body can't do it anymore and I feel the best in a long time. Everyone tells me I look so refreshed. The calories i got from 1-2 bottles of wine a day was outrages. It's going to be a hard road because that was a routine i did after work. Working night shift has also taken a toll on my body. Beginning Sept i have switched to day shift although I will take a huge money cut.But my health is suffering with high blood pressure and sleep apnea. You are the first person to even discuss all this with. Thank you. I feel I just released a load. I need support so bad or I'm going to dye.}

_{Thank you}

There's no shame in seeing a professional. It sounds like you have alot on your plate and talking with someone could benefit you. Life is stressful and anything that helps you cope better that's not destructive to you is worth considering.

I'm glad you have realized that drinking was not helping you live a healthier life.

This might sound kinda harsh, but I don't mean it that way. Everyone in life goes through stress and disappointments, at one point or another. We really have to decide on not using those times as excuses. We have to learn to deal with those times, not with food or alcohol, but figure another way. Anything, going for a walk, reading, taking a soak in the tub or a craft of some kind. Also staying with a support group will also help.

I wish you all the best. You can do this!!!

Congrats on cutting out the alcohol. You can do this and maybe think of something to do right after work i.e. listen to a great meditation cd to unwind you. I love www.brainsync.com ....good luck on your journey.

Congratulations on taking the first steps towards regaining your health.

The very first thing I'd do would be to find a counselor that specializes in addiction. It's great you stopped drinking a couple days ago, but you are going to need help if you're going remain sober without trading it in for another addiction. Or, perhaps a 12 step group if that would make you more comfortable. It's just really important you don't try to do all this alone.

Once you find a counselor/support group, I'd go see a nutritionist to let them help you establish food guidelines specific to you and your lifestyle.

I have a lot of respect for you. You can do this.