Hello everyone, I am new here to the forum and my journey begins today. I have wanted to get the lap-band surgery for many years but only recently joined an insurance plan that would pay for it. Otherwise I was about to pay out of pocket. (thank goodness I waited) I am excited like you wouldn't believe. I really feel the procedure will help change my life.

I am a fairly social person even as a big man. I have always tried to let my size not get in the way of living. But I have to say at 40, things are getting a bit tougher and the body getting a bit beat up. I am a musician and it is getting harder to play those long gigs. Getting real sick of taking all sorts of meds and pain killers. My quality of life is starting to take a hit so I know I have to do something before it is too late.

Today, 12/02/07, I begin my pre-op liquid diet. My surgery is 12/06/07. The procedure will be performed by Dr. Robert Snow in Hurst, TX. I had a big Cowboy Cut Ribeye at Kirbys last night just to say goodbye to the old man. Today is hello to the new. I know it will be a tough week but I will take it one day at a time. I am drinking fruit smoothies, muscle milk lean muscle drinks, blended Soups and V8. Any food suggestions are welcome.

I have gathered a lot of information here in the forum and help to share my own success stories with you folks soon.

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Well folks, it is done!!!!! All went well, I also got the new band. Just resting at home now. Some shoulder and upper abdominal discomfort but I'll live. Was real groogy after I came home. Today I am much better. I can't believe after so many years of trying I finally got it done.

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congrats thunder!

pls keep us informed

Kacee, glad you enjoyed. Nothing like a prime cut of meat. Now we can take focus off quantity and we can increase quality. Whenever I do start to eat again I plan to focus on quality foods. May cost more but now I need a lot less.

Well, just about 2 months out now and I am holding at about 30lbs +-. I get my second fill today and I could use it. I feel as if I have no restriction at all. I had a 16 oz steak on my birthday (back to the steak thing again) and experienced no problem with it at all. Matter of fact, I have had no problem with foods at all. No pb's, no slimes, nothing. I had some restriction after the first fill, nothing major but enough to hold the snacking down but now it is all shear will power to stop from over doing it. I am excercising at least 3 days a week. I plan to put it in overdrive the next 4 weeks in order to meet my personal goals. Just hoping fill two makes it a little easier.

Hey, Thunder, everyone here at good ole' CSC is wondering how you are doing????? Let us know. We are here for you man...

Hey lady! I was just going to mail you today but I got distracted putting out fires. I am fine. Down about 35lbs now. I just got my third fill and I am filling it. Nothing bad though, just nice to have some emergency brakes. How are you coming along? I bet you all skinny now!!