I'm getting lap-banded tomorrow at Tel Aviv's Assuta Hospital . My doctor is Dr. Avinoach who works out of Soroka hosptial in Be'er Sheva. I fly up to the big city at 0830, start fasting from 0900 on, show up at the hospital at 1200, spend the night at the hospital and, if all goes well, should be discharged around noon of Thursday and will fly back to my little desert home near Eilat. I'll have a friend along with me for the trip, which is a big comfort.

I'm a 47 year-old man, weigh 130 kilo, (286 lbs) and am 1.68 (5'5''). Right now I have trouble tying my shoes and putting on my socks, feel like I am on the verge of dislocating my shoulder every time I wipe myself (that's probably too much information, but that's where I'm at) and am startin to notice how narrow they are building doorways these days. I have tried Weight Watchere, OA, cognitive therapy and Atkins and only end up getting fatter.

I'm excited and hopeful about tomorrow. I realize that there's no magic involved in this and that I'm still going to have to work hard, but I'm counting on the lap-band leveling the playing field and introducing a new element in my effort to free myself from my obesity.

Thank you all for being here- I welcome your comments, questions, advice and support.

I just wanted to wish you lots of luck with your surgery and can't wait to hear how things are going with you.

Good luck to you! It's the best thing you will have ever done for yourself!

Good luck with your surgery! You're going be just fine. This is the beginning of a lifelong journey for you! Please keep us updated with how everything goes. (By the way, I have relatives who live in Israel!)

Good luck tomorrow! And congrats on taking this step! You'll do great!!

Good luck tomorrow and congrats on your decision!!! Let us know how you do.It was the best thing i have ever done, i feel great. Donna

Shukran, Hijabgirl! It's really moving to see so much empathy and concern on this forum. I'll keep posting and hope to hear more from you, too. Ma'as salaama!

Thanks, Alberto - I am sore and tired but hopeful. Good luck with your goal - I'm rooting for you.

Thanks, Kara... the journey begins. Where do your Israeli relatives live?

Thanks, Worth - time to rest up from a long trip and contemplate a new beginning. Looking forward to posting more and getting to know everyone here,

Thank you, Donna. Wow, was it great to come home and find these messages.I really appreciate it. Congratulations on your weight loss!

Bandpal,

I am 13 days post op. The first week was pretty rough for me, but this was my first surgery ever so I think I might have a low tolerance to pain and anesthesia.

This forum has been invaluable to me. Everyone is so caring and willing to give advice. There are folks on here who are an absolute inspiration to me, who make me know that I can do this.

My advice is post your questions, even though the band can be a very individualistic experience, getting input from these folks really helps you assess where you are and the advice ranges from helping you stay on track one day, to inspiring you to set other goals such as exercise.

Best of luck to you on your journey...

Welcome, Bandpal!

I hope all goes well with your surgery! You've taken a big step toward becoming a healthier you!

Keep us posted on how things go for you!