:nervous Hi. My name is Dawn. I am 38 years old and have been overweight all my life. I have discussed my desire to have lapband surgery with everyone I know and have gotten the "good for you" response enough times that I have come in search of people who know how I feel.

The biggest step I have taken so far is to quit smoking (my surgeon won't even consult without 90 days smoke-free) and to schedule a seminar to attend (also required).

I have only just begun and already the constant up and down of emotions is mind numbing. I go from feeling on top of the world (finally making a decision) to the verge of tears faster than most people can blink their eyes. The hurry up and wait roller coaster has left the station.

Thanks for listening.

Hello Dawn and welcome to LBT! Those up and down emotions are certainly normal! We've all been there! Food has been a source of comfort for so many of us that it feels like you are losing a best friend. I am so excited for you about quitting smoking! That is a HUGE step! I hope everything goes well for you and if you any questions, don't hesitate to ask! Good luck!

I have a little idea how you feel, Dawn. Good luck to you on this roller coaster ride. I have been on the Internet for hours and hours and hours looking at the goods, the bads, and the uglies. This site is definitely a "good."

Yesterday I scheduled my surgery for March 19. My husband taught me early in our marriage (38 years ago) that when it is hard to make a decision, pretend that you made it one way or the other and then go forward and see how it feels. I did that and it feels great (deciding NOT to do the lapband gave me great feelings of hopelessness and doubt). Now, I'm excited, although nervous about the eventual outcome, and looking forward to the future.

Good luck quitting smoking. My Dad was a smoker and my Mom has always been overweight. My Dad told my Mom that he would quit smoking if she lost weight. He quit smoking 50 years ago--but she is still overweight. I have to wonder which is harder? Both must be among the hardest things we have to do in this life. Good luck with both and especially with your decisions.

I'm a newbie here but I'm sure you'll hear from some really experienced, helpful new friends. Again, good luck! Karen

Go for it girl, you have looked for others for their response this is something you need to do for yourself. I went th other way I had it done on the 2/22 and very few people know because I did it for me and trust me it wasn't easy. When I looked at what I was giving up I almost gave up food has been my life for a long time and the thought of controling it is still scary to me. The people I have told have been great and supportive that is very important. I took the jump and of course had buyers remorse after but I am glad I did it.I am looking forward to being that size 12 it will be a exciting day when I get there!!!!!!!!!!!!

It is definitely an emotional rollercoaster, which makes for a fun ride! I was stressed while I was at my highest weight, sad that I even needed to research this option, excited that I didn't have to re-route my intestines, worried about financing, hopeful to be thin, nervous about elective surgery, etc. When I was approved and got my date I was thrilled, then about 2 days before I FREAKED! I was so nervous, but my friends here at LBT helped me keep my head. I've continued the ups and downs since with weight loss, a slip, etc. Congrats on quitting smoking. I did that 11 years ago and what a relief! I just wanted to give you kudos for that accomplishment and reassure you that the emotions are a normal part of this.

Momlambert, I am so happy for you. I came on the board today to check up on you, I see you have a surgery date! Keep me posted on your life! Just noticed that you need to change your surgery date on your signatre to March instead of October. Hang in there and let me know if you have any questions or concerns about your surgery.

Thanks for making me feel like what I'm going through is normal. I am only on day 20 of the smoking thing--going to have a party when I reach 90 days. That's when I'll feel like I am really getting to the point where I can start my journey to a completely healthier me. Really looking forward to being able to make an appointment for the consult.

Keeping it real,

Dawn

Momlambert, I am so happy for you. I came on the board today to check up on you, I see you have a surgery date! Keep me posted on your life! Just noticed that you need to change your surgery date on your signatre to March instead of October. Hang in there and let me know if you have any questions or concerns about your surgery.

Thanks, Angeleyes. It's nice to be checked on! And thanks for noticing my banding date--I have a new grandbaby due on October 19 so that is, apparently, foremost on my mind (which is a good thing--all things in perspective!).