Hello Everyone. My name is Deidre and I was banded on 21 Nov 2006. I was introduced to this site last week by a friend and am sooo glad to be a part of such a great community.

Some have wondered why I chose to have the Lap Band surgery because in their words, "you're not that big." To them maybe not, to me yes. I don’t like to way I look (physically) and I was getting to the point where my size was hindering me from doing two things I really love, karate and riding rollercoasters. I have a third degree black belt in karate and as you progress in the black belt level, a lot of the things you do require you to get on the floor and spring back up. Well as you can imagine at 5’7” 282 lbs, I wasn’t “springing” very fast. Heck, I wasn’t “springing” at all. :phanvan BUT, that’s about the change! :clap2:

I’m fortunate to have the support of my Mother, friends, and boyfriend. Before I got the surgery, he continually told me that although he loves me just the way I am, if this is something I need to do for me, then he is behind me 100%. And to-date, he’s been VERY supportive. He stayed with me for several days after the surgery until I was ok to be by myself. He was even there through the times of flatulence which was very prevalent a day or two after surgery. :cry

I look forward to talking and sharing experiences with you all.

Hi Deidre, Welcome to bandland and to LBT!!! Youshould have great results with the band, as you already have the exercise part figured out!!! If you come up with questions, or have milestones to share---please do so!!!

LOL...sounds like the BF is a keeper, if ya can't gas him out, then guess ya better hang on to him!!! Seriously tho, it is great that you have a strong support system, I fully believe it simplifies the banded journey.

I was close to the same size as you, I am 5'9" and began at 289. I am down 75 pouns now, and it has been 7 months. The difference is so HUGE and amazing, it is impossible to comprehend! From a size 22/24, to a 14/16. But I too exercise, and enjoy it!!! I've got several years on you...so if I can do it...so can you!!! This band is an awesome helper!!!

It is good to have you here. I look forward to getting to know you better!

Kat

Hi Kat,

Thanks for the welcome. Yep, I think my boyfriend is a keeper!

Congrats on your weight loss so far. . 75 lbs, that's AWESOME! Yes, we were about the same size, so you have given me hope. . .THANKS! I can't remember the last time I wore a size with "teen" in the number.

I look forward to chatting with you more in the future.

Deidre

Welcome to LBT Deirdre

keep us posted on your progress!

Great to see you here!

PS what a wonderful boyfriend you have.

Welcome to LBT and to bandland! Your DBF sounds like a keeper to me!

Good Luck!

Hi Dee, I'm 5'9 and weight 252 lbs right now. Prior to surgery I was 282. I had lost about 40 lbs on my own. You sound like you can get into really good shape. The best shape I was ever in was when I did martial arts as well. I'm so out of shape the most I can do is 30 minute workout at Curves. Best of luck to you. Keep us posted on your progress.