In 2010 and at my highest weight (315 lbs), I was told by my primary care doctor that because of health conditions related to my weight, there was a big possibility that I would not see my daughter graduate from high school. I think of this as my wake up call and is when I asked about bariatric surgery options. After much research and discussions with my family, I decided to go with gastric banding and had the surgery in April 2011.

It has been a bumpy road caused by issues with my port and even though I have not reached my goal weight, I know the surgery was the best decision I could have made for myself because I am healthier. I no longer have diabetes or high blood pressure, I can move easier and as I grow stronger physically, I am getting my self confidence back. Best of all, I got to see my daughter graduate from high school.

Hopefully, my port issues have been resolved and I can continue on with this life changing journey.

I think you are in the right place. Welcome to our band blogging forum. You cheer us & we cheer you to good health!

I think you are in the right place. Welcome to our band blogging forum. You cheer us & we cheer you to good health!

Hi Raedale, thanks for posting. Getting off the BP and diabetes meds -- way to go! Our son is graduating from high school next June and one of my goals is to be really healthy by then. I'm sorry to hear you've had trouble with your port. I hope that is getting resolved quickly so you can heal up and continue along this path of good health and happiness. I know what you mean about the self-confidence. I was sinking in that department. An introvert by nature, work from home, just not comfortable in the world the way I want to be. Changing all that now! Thanks for an inspiring post this morning.

Welcome rae. Like to see posts from veteran bandsters who give us their experiences both good and challenging.

Hello and welcome!

In 2010 and at my highest weight (315 lbs), I was told by my primary care doctor that because of health conditions related to my weight, there was a big possibility that I would not see my daughter graduate from high school. I think of this as my wake up call and is when I asked about bariatric surgery options. After much research and discussions with my family, I decided to go with gastric banding and had the surgery in April 2011.

It has been a bumpy road caused by issues with my port and even though I have not reached my goal weight, I know the surgery was the best decision I could have made for myself because I am healthier. I no longer have diabetes or high blood pressure, I can move easier and as I grow stronger physically, I am getting my self confidence back. Best of all, I got to see my daughter graduate from high school.

Hopefully, my port issues have been resolved and I can continue on with this life changing journey.

Good for you, it can only get better.

Welcome Rae! You are doing great! Congrats on your weightloss and finding this site!