Hi All, There is a perception out there on other boards that Lapbandtalk is a site full of negative and depressing people who more often than not have complications with their band because they abuse it.

I think this is so unfair. I have personally found posting on this board to be very valuable in that I have learnt a lot from those who have been banded before me, and I have made some wonderful friends.

I believe a small percentage of people will have complications with their band and it is ligitimate to come here and post to seek help and reassurance. Does that make us negative band abusers?

The intention of this thread was not to bash other boards. I really like the other boards also for the same reason I like this board. I think they all serve a common purpose and they are all terrific in their own way.

I like coming here each day, and it really got to me to hear others downing it here. Each to their own I guess, and everyone is entitled to their own opinion for sure.

What do others think?

Susannah

This site rocks....it has pulled me through many a down moment.

becky

Why should it matters what other boards say about LBT??? Until now LBT has worked very well for me, I have my band for over two years, because I always find something useful here, whether I read something that directly concerns me and my band or whether I reply to someone's question hoping it will help that person as I've been helped before. And whenever someone has a problem or a complication with the band, it's only natural to speak it out here at LBT, to share it and hear other people's oppinion.

As long as I'm OK, you're OK, we're OK! no problem at all with what other boards say... besides, nobody is forced to hang around LBT against its own will, so why bother?

niki

I have a question....what is "the other site" or are we allowed to say?

There's nothing wrong with mentioning other sites, AFAIK. I'm just not sure what the other site is, because there are many other sites. I just spent all of about 20 seconeds on Google and found over 30 other boards out there, all of which - I'm sure - have equal value to their members. I know that a lot of people here also use www.obesityhelp.com (I used to, but to me it's very hard to navigate so I rarely visit any longer).

Hi there,

I have been a 'lurker' for months now, and have obtained great information, encouragement and strength through this site.

I am one of the unfortunate ones, who have to be extremely patient and wait another year for the band, as I have to wait for government funding (I am UK based). Having this site to turn to in times of doubt and hopelessness helps me understand and prepare for the future in the best possible way. Both negative and positive stories interest me as I would rather know the truth and be ready than have unpleasant surprises.

So a huge thank you to all of you for your thoughts, ideas and general support of each other. It is inspiring and I know that I will be in touch when I finally get to be banded. Until then, I will continue to "lurk and learn".

Best wishes to you all

Mari