I have had my lapband 6mths this week and I'm down 92lbs.

So, what have I done/learned in 6mths with Elpeatha (that's my lapband's' name and it means 'hope')?

I generally eat better. I take my time with my food. Partly because it's good for me and partly because Elpeatha won't let me do it any other way.

I make better food choices and always think protein before I plan what I'm going to eat. Don't get me wrong, I screw up too - exhibit a) one extremely calorific (but utterly scrummy) banana milkshake last weekend.

This trip is harder than I thought it would be. There is no (for me anyway) eating what I like but smaller amounts that I thought there would be. If I want this weight to come off then I have to give up many of the things I love and work hard.

Leads me to exercise. I'm so much better than I was 6mths ago. I can walk around and go places without having knots in my stomach that I can't cope. I still have a long way to go before I will consider myself anywhere near fit but seeing the results is a great motivator to doing more. Buying a treadmill was the best thing I have ever done for myself . Now what I need is to push myself more. This is something I have never done before in my life (easy option girl, that's me). The weight was falling off but now it's stalled somewhat and I need to up the exercise . Not an easy one but I'll try.

I've had loads of NSV's (posted elsewhere) and love them more than the scale. My only disappointment in this respect is lack of clothes falling off- I'm still wearing all my original clothes????????? But that will come too- eventually.

I have loved and needed the support I have found online and the friends I have made who's love and concern for my well being is something I now treasure.

And that's about it. The next 6mths beckons. I have to work even harder now to get to where I want to be but with all of you giving your support and encouragement I know I'll keep on trying. In 6mths I will have had my lapband a year and I'll be celebrating my 40th birthday . Maybe the old addage 'Life begins at 40' is true afterall?

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Congrats Alison, you deserve every bit of your success because I know you have worked so hard for it! Wanna pass a little of your will power 'round this way?? Keep it up and you will be at your goal in no time!!:clap2: :clap2: :clap2: :clap2: :clap2: :clap2: :clap2: :clap2:

How exciting, wish I were losing that quickly. But I'm grateful for what I've got. You have done an exceptional job and should be so proud. Best to you.

Wow, thanks for sharing. You are an inspiration....

hugs and cheers to the next 6 months....

Congratulations. 92 lbs is 6 months is AMAZING! I can't wait to read your 1 year post. Keep up the good work.

You know who is proud of you and for you on this end. Ali you are doing fantastic. I know our cruise time is nine months out but I am just so excited. Love you:clap2:

Wow..Great Job!!!! Keep it up...:confused:

A1ikou,

VERY IMPRESSIVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am close behind!!! :confused: Keep up the GREAT work!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is SO WORTH IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

God BLess,

Melody

Banded 3/20/06 -87lbs

Congrats! Amazing!!! Thank you for sharing your story and insight!!

Good for you....good for US! I'm right with you (only I've got lots farther to go). (I'm down 83 lbs)

As you said, the best part is being able to get around and feeling more self-confident. I had gotten to the point of being afraid to drive and I hadn't been in a store or a mall in several years. I am driving all over now and have been in a couple of stores and a mall. Still can't make myself tackle WalMart.

Exercise....I've gone from sitting and crying in the parking lot of the gym to actually going in the door and now I'm now walking a mile on the treadmill in 25 minutes. Unless you've been down that far you can't know how good that feels.

You are very right.....the sharing that takes place on the board certainly keeps us focused and motivated. And I thank everyone for being so open and generous with their thoughts.

Continued success!!!

You are doing absolutely fabulous! This band is a wonderful tool and chance at a new life that we have been given. I love the name you gave your band, it is so fitting. They really do give us hope at a new and healthier life.

Thank you everyone for your comments! Here's to the next 6mths...

Whooo Hoooo for you! Great job!