I am 42, 5ft5 and weigh about 22 stone.

I have had so much c**p in my life (last year was one of the worst) and am thinking a lapband is the only way I will lose a huge amount of weight.

I have lost up to 3 stone before, but put it back on, as I suffer with dreadful depression, mostly caused because I struggle to cope with my family.

I always put myself last and have had abuse in my life too, which has led to zero self esteem. Am now a single parent on benefits.

I hardly ever go out, because I feel and look disgusting.

I am sick of taking anti-depressants when all I need is to lose lots of weight, which will give me the confidence to get out of the house and live again.

Do you think I could get a Band on the NHS?

I know of 2 other people that my GP has funded, so I may get it done.

I am also scared of it failing, as everything else I have done has failed to keep the weight off.

Thank you for reading (didn't mean to go on so much)

I was 22 stone the same as you so really know how you feel, go to your doctors and ask, if he has refered people before you then you are in with a good chance. x

if you are refered and get a band its not a magic trick you have to work with it , dont just stop taking your anti-depressants if you get a yes you need to cut down then stop, good luck hope you get help from your dr