I was banded one year ago today in Mexico. I've lost 67 pounds and gained an entire life. I haven't lost any weight in months. I gained back 7, but lost 4, so for the first time in my life I’m actually maintaining weight loss instead of constantly climbing upward. It's astonishing.

I don't have a port because it got infected and was surgically removed a month after banding. I had a second port put in several months ago, but the original wound wasn't healthy enough, so the second port was also infected. In January, my second port was removed along with a huge chunk of infected flesh. My doctor said I can have a new port after November, but with all the extra bills incurred from the extra surgeries and complications, I won't be able to afford another surgery for a couple years. I've had 4 major band-related surgeries in addition to several surgical procedures done on an outpatient basis. I've had more than my fair share of complications. It's been a rough year, but I would do it all over again right here, right now.

I'm too busy at work to ramble on about how miraculous my band is, but for anyone that might be in the consideration phase, my only suggestion is stop wondering and worrying, and like Nike says, Just Do It! I'm thrilled. Astonished. Grateful. Blessed. I have hope.

Peace

P.S. Attached are some pics that Ms. Penni put together for me. That's me & Francesca in the hospital, me with a fresh band and her waiting to go into surgery. She's lost 90 pounds, I've lost 67. I've got some catching up to do, but SIXTY SEVEN POUNDS GONE ROCKS MY WORLD! And portless!

everyone keeps talking about how good so and so looks in the pictures... how do I view pictures. I am so confused on this web site.

Thanks,

Rena

you look great. I have hope now that I am doing the right thing. I must remember to take pictures before huh? That is fantastic.

Rena

Congratulations, Lisa. You've sure had a rough time of it, but you've been a real inspiration. I'm just awestruck by your positive attitude and strength in the face of what would make most of us crumble.

Enjoy those frosting licks, Lisa. And sorry I'm late to this; unfortunately, I'm an infrequent visitor these days, but you're still in my thoughts.

Keep up the fabulous work!!!