Hello:

My name is Debbie. I have been lurking for a few weeks, and I love everything I've read.

I like to say that I'm blind, not to elicit sympathy, but I've found it's best for me to be open about that from the start.

I have been overweight for most of my adult life, and at times, pretty depressed about it, not to mention how I think others see me.

I'm terrified about having surgery; I had major surgery about six years ago, and have a terrible fear of needles. I've been known to walk out of labs because I couldn't stand the thought of the sting, which is more than that to me.

I've known people who have had stomach stapling, I think, and they've gained the weight and then some. This was, in fairness, many years ago. A friend of mine is taking seminars now--she's having the ru-NY--is that right? Anyway, she's the only person, so far, who is supportive of my even considering the lab band. It's interesting that the people who tell me I don't need it, are, for the most part, thinner than I am. I have a couple of fat friends that say there's no way they'd have any kind of weight loss surgery. But I have high blood pressure, sleep apnea, my knees hurt when I go up or down stairs--and I live in a town house. I'm sure you all know the story.

Sorry I've gone on so long. I haven't said any of the things I wanted to. I really love this site, and am looking forward to getting to know you all, and the other way around as well.

Debbie .

I told her my intentions to get the Lap-Band since she was one of my few overweight friends, and thankfully, she told me that she supported me as long as I promised to take it out if anything goes wrong! She admitted that it's hard to lose weight and commended me that I'm trying anything at all.

She sounds like a great friend!

Debbie,

Welcome to LBT..this is a great place to get all kind of support...I understand your fear of needles, I have to say I was scared to have the surgery, but it was the best thing I have ever done...I would do it again tomorrow....I have lost 74 lbs since April of 2007...

Green--thanks for the info...

Good analogy.