I had my Lap-Band surgery the day before Thanksgiving in 2009. I was extremely dedicated and followed the band rules to the letter--no soda, no gum, no alcohol (very rarely), no sugar, etc. I started training for a marathon around 250 pounds and 2 months after surgery. I lost about 75 pounds in my first year and went from over 280 pounds and into "Onderland" in my second year out. In 2011 I started having difficulty. I've had to get my band unfilled and refilled several times since then due to reflux, and the inability to swallow. Last October I had surgery for a hiatal hernia repair. Two upper GIs showed nothing wrong, but my doctor had the foresight to know that I probably had a hernia. At that time he also suggested that I consider converting to the gastric sleeve. I was against it and wanted to give my band another try after the hernia repair.

At my appointment last week my doctor talked to me about the sleeve surgery one last time, and I walked out with the realization that it was something that I should consider. Since then I have met with the psychologist, researched the surgery, scheduled my appointment with the nutritionist, and tentatively scheduled the surgery. I work fast once my mind is made up. This is my second chance and I am jumping right in.

I am realistic about the changes that I will have to make and the commitment I need to make to myself. I am ready. I feel the same excitement and optimism that I felt before I was banded. I don't regret getting the Lap-Band. It saved my life. I am happier than I have ever been even though I've gained back 50 pounds of what I lost. I have also gained a husband, confidence, and self-love. Now I just have to move on from the band and get sleeved so that I have a tool that will help me reach my goal. I'm ready. I just hope my insurance provider is on board.

Thank you in advance for all of your support. Reading through posts over the past week has been immensely helpful. I can't wait to share my journey with everyone as I have enjoyed reading about all of yours.

Malsr, welcome to the world of sleeves. You are making a great decision and you will be healthier than ever. You will be able to share lots with us on band vs sleeve and what the differences are. Post often. Good luck with that insurance.

Malsr, welcome to the world of sleeves. You are making a great decision and you will be healthier than ever. You will be able to share lots with us on band vs sleeve and what the differences are. Post often. Good luck with that insurance.

Thank you so much for the support. I will be sure to visit this site often. I think it was a mistake not coming on here more often over the past few years (used to be destin2fly19). I could have used the support through all of my band ups and downs. I won't make that mistake this time.