Here I am just a mere 2.5 pounds from my goal and wondering where the heck the time went? We all know that the older you get the faster time goes by, but this is unreal and I'm having some kind of time digesting it all. A year ago today, I was diagnosed with type II diabetes, crazy blood pressure and severe obstructive sleep apnea (a few weeks later). I knew something had to give, because I had too much living to do to have to worry about pills, testing and the sort. To some, the band was an extreme way to thwart off these diseases; to some, I didn't need to lose the weight at all. My questions to them were: Have you ever struggled with your weight? I have my entire life. Are you judging my physical appearance as a guage of good health? Don't judge a book by it's cover, I have three conditions that could take me out of here any time. Have you had the displeasure of yo-yo dieting? I always gained back more than I lost. Do you have to prick your finger to get a drop of blood out every morning? It doesn't feel good and it's scary. Do you sleep well at night? I wake up several times caughing or having to go pee...again! Are you concerned about going blind, losing your limbs or having a poor quality of life? I do. Do find yourself wondering if you'll see your developmentally delayed child grow up and become an independent adult? I choose to live for her as much as for myself. The band was the solution for me and I'm glad I did it. I have none of those conditions or the guilt that my health would be the reason I left this earth before completing the most important job God has given me: Being a mother. I have such different outlook on life now and I'm happier than I thought I could be. Nothing is guaranteed...if you drive a car, any second could be your last. But I feel better about my chances of living a long and healthy life now. It all started a year ago today.

I am so happy for youu and Celebrate Happy banderversery , and many years to your life and health.

I am so happy for you and Celebrate Happy banderversery , and many years to your life and health.

Ditto that! Well said!

Hi Debbie...my bandiversary is June 19th...February 18th is when I was faced with the reality that something had to happen, quickly!

I am so happy for youu and Celebrate Happy banderversery , and many years to your life and health.

well then I am still happy that you decided to change your health and live longer , you are the one who chose to make the decision to a better healthier you , props to you, mind I forget well still just think this is just accomplishment you made in your life, yeah!!! ok I will wait till june then say Happy banderversery lol oops lol.

I agree with you. Your decisions are life altering. My decision was also based on Health. I have had one hip and knee replacement. I have been told I need the other hip and knee replaced plus I have two herniated disks. I may not look that big but I did qualify for the surgery and my skelatal system is thanking me for it every day. I can't wait to to get near my goal. I was banded in Feb. 2014. I have a long journey. Thanks for sharing your story.

Happy bandiversary

Well, today's anniversary is just as important as your band anniversary. A year ago today, you decided YOUR HEALTH WAS OF UTMOST IMPORTANCE TO YOU! Best wishes !

Thanks for sharing your story. I agree with you 200%....nothing is more important to me than raising my little girl and boy (3 and 7)...watching them grow into wonderful adults...experiencing all there is to experience with them. They were a big factor in my decision to get this surgery...and so far I couldnt be happier with the results!