Hi everyone! My name is Tammy and this is my first posting. Looking for a supportive group that has been/is going through the same thing as myself. I have a wonderful family/friend support system but they haven't been through this so don't fully understand the whole thing. I am 36 years old and a stay-at-home mom of 4. The oldest (my step-son) is 15 and the youngest is 4 1/2 months. I am in Missouri and am under the care of Dr. Simpson. I have been heavy all of my life and have done the diets. Some have worked temporarily but it always comes back. My heighest non-pregnancy weight was last summer at 300lbs. I started my journey last year for the LapBand in January by attending a seminar, which is required here. I immediately started the process and steps of getting the procedure done. I finally received my approval on July 23rd 2011, but that was quickly heart-sank, because I had just found out on July 18th, 2011 that I was expecting- unexpectedly! This precious little girl has been a blessing and would not have changed anything - but now it is time to get back to my journey. I went back in May of this year and got the ball rolling again - this is when my doctor introduced me to the Sleeve. After much consideration - I have decided this is the better way to go. I am very excited about my new life. I weighed in at 281.4 on July 2nd, the night before my pre-op liquid diet started. I am now part way through week two of pre-op liquid and weighed in this morning at 269.8! My surgery is on July 16th at 6:15am. I just did my pre-admission last night and am getting very excited. I guess a little bit nervous - but not really that much. I will post on updates. I enjoy reading about everyones journey, success, and struggles. Thanks for allowing me to be part of a wonderful community. Here's to the beginning of a new life!!!!!

Greats decision to do the sleeve! I went to a support group meeting last night with my Surgeon and it seems like the lap-band patients had so many more issues. I was sleeved on June 11th and have had a very easy recovery. My weight loss has been a bit slower than I had hoped, but everyone sees the inches! Every day people are commenting on how good I look. I am down 20 pounds since my surgery. So, today is actually a month for me and down 20 pounds. When is the last time I was able to say I lost 20 pounds in a month? Best of luck to you and keep us informed. This site is a blessing.

I just wanted to wish you luck. Please continue to come back here for support, encouragement, and understanding.