Hey yall. My name is Nina. Im 27 and am working on the 6 mth wait period and will decide at the end if I want to have the surgery. I was gonna have the gastric bypass but it is way to final. If that makes since. I dont want to drop the pounds that drastically I want a less risky and a loss of weight that will be at a slower rate that way I can work on my muscles, excesses skin, and self esteem. I dont want to go from fat to skinny over night. I think a slower weight loss is better. So Im thinking of getting the lapband but Im scared. I have had a lot of health issues. About 7 mths ago I had Congestive Heart Failure and diagnosed with Cardiomyopathy. When diagnosed I had a 3 yr old and a beautiful 4 day old (now 7mths old) at home. I am determined to be healthier and to live to see my kids grow up. In the past 7 mths I have joined Curves and have been working out and trying to eat better (cutting portions also). Lately I have slacked but I gotta get back on track. Ok Im sorry this is so long but I figured I would tell it all while i can lol.

Welcome Nina. I'm sorry to hear about the cardiomyopathy. Do you know what your ejection fraction is? You'll find a lot of good information here as well as at the free informational sessions that surgeons offer. Read a lot and ask questions.

my ef when I was diagnosed was 40-45 (which is not as bad as alot of people) according to the docs its now around 55. I think im having a setback though cause my ankles are swollen and i gained some weight this past week really quick, but im currently trying to come down sick so i dont know if this persistent cough and little weez is from my heart or whatever cold im trying to get u know.

Your EF is good so I don't think that would be an issue or contra-indication to getting approval for the surgery. Leg swelling and weight gain is not associated with colds but it is with CHF so you might want to check it out with your MD.