I'm thinking about getting the surgery, I've tried everything I see a dietitian monthly I talk to my Dr, I exercise, and watch what I eat. My Dr recommended this to me and well since I come from a family of bean poles they told me this is a cop-out. I think I really need it. Is there anyone that can offer me advice on this surgery? I've been watching YouTube and reading for weeks I have my eval coming up and can't think of what to ask or expect because it seems like everyone has different outcomes.

Hi

I just past 7th year mark. The lapband changed my life. I have no regrets at all. I started with a 54" waist.. now 30".

If you would like to email to ask questions or if you would like to chat on the phone to ask questions I'd be happy to call you... I have free long distance. I chatted with many people on the phone both in Canada and the US monthly... I've met some really great people here over the years.

Tom, Toronto

Banded July 6 06

Wt. Loss: 160 lbs

tomander@bell.net

Hi there, first of all commiserations on the bean-pole family -- I totally know what that's like. I'm adopted and the women in my family are fairly petite and of a certain genotype. They don't get fat. Ack! Anyway, I'd say you are in the best possible place for research. The process takes a long time so while I've been waiting for the wheels to turn I've been on here nearly every day reading people's stories and participating as much as possible. Every time I ask a question I get amazing answers from very kind and knowledgeable people. There is a lot of compassion, which is something that has been missing for me because of course I beat myself up so much for "getting this way." Every one here has walked in the same shoes, and I really appreciate that.

I decided on the Lapband because it's the least invasive and it is reversible. I want something to help with my appetite so I can be successful at losing weight. Like most people I have dieted a lot and even lost a lot of weight, but only to gain it back. I need something permanent and this tool will help me reach my goals. I'm already wishing I had done this twenty years ago rather than struggling along into my fifties. Best wishes to you!

I've been banded for about 5 years now and it truly changed my life. It gave me more confidence and made life a lot more fun to live. While Lab Band isn't the right tool for everyone, it is an AWESOME tool.

However, the word TOOL is the key. Remember this isn't a magic pill and you will wake up skinny. This is a tool to help you control your food intake. It can't make you not eat the junk.

I say go for it, without hesitation or reservation. I tried for years to lose the weight: phentermine, Atkins, Slim Fast, Quick Weight Loss...you name it, I probably tried it. Yes, they were all successful for a while but I eventually gained the weight back. The band is different, unless you are a glutton for pain - it's hard to mess this up.

Although it is good to have the support of your family and friends, sometimes you just have to keep things to yourself and do what you think is best for you.

Good luck, don't look back!

Thank you everyone. It makes me feel better reading this page knowing that I'm not the only person with weight problems. I'm so happy to hear everyone's success stories. I understand thus is a life style not a "skinny pill" even though I wish there was a such thing at times. I look forward to reading more on this page. Thanks guys