I'm James, and I'm from Dallas. I've been overweight/obese my entire life and I've finally decided to do something about it. Both my wife and I went in for our first consults this morning, and I gotta say things went much better than I thought.

I was initially worried that a lack of several different types of dieting attempts would automatically disqualify me, but so far so good. I've only attempted losing weight through diet and exercise on my own, usually only losing a few pounds here and there before gaining it back. I've never trusted diets like Atkins or Weight Watchers because I've worked with so many people that just seemed to be constantly on them without losing a pound. Plus stuff like Atkins just seems so unhealthy to me.

So yeah, we're ready to lose the weight and determined to do whatever it takes at this point. I was really hesitant about WLS, but after attending a seminar and having some of my fears soothed (I'll still be able to eat the things I really like) I was ready.

I'm at a 42 BMI, hoping to lose about 130 lbs eventually (my goal). Got a sleep study, blood panel and EKG to get through, not to mention the insurance fight yet, but at least I'm on my way.

Just thought I'd post my intro since I'll probably be lurking on these boards for advice from time to time.

Hi James!

It's great to have you and it's even greater than you and your wife are doing this together. I have yet to be banded, but hopefully by the end of the year. I've gone to the seminar and have gotten the info needed from my insurance company that they will cover it, etc. I, too, have been obese all of my life and actually lost a significant amount of weight from May of 2000 to March of 2001, went from 203 down to 158 through my personal trainer's high Protein, low carb diet and rigorous exercise...only to become pregnant in March of 2001 and gaining 50 pounds during the pregnancy, losting 25 after, to gaining to 280 as of February of this year. I joined WW a second time this year and lost down to 266, which I am currently. So, it's bee yoyo city for me all of my life.

I wish you the very best and I think you will find this site addictive. Since I Found it back in July, I am pretty much here everyday reading new posts and getting new insight each day!

Hang in there James - it is so worth it!! My insurance would not pay; so I did the self-pay route and was banded in Waco. My weight loss has been slow but each time I go to the doctor I show a loss and thats been very important to me - they are small but a loss and no gain! I also like to look at it like this: If I had NOT had the surgery, I probably would have gained another 20 - 40 lbs at the rate I was going. I havent had any troubles and I view it as a blessing!!

Good luck to yall!!

Hello James! I was banded on Aug. 22 and my hubby is going to be banded on Oct. 6. Is your wife going to be banded also? I am so glad my hubby is because we can support each other and understand it to the fullest. I didnt have to do a pre-op diet, so since my surgury 3 weeks ago today I have lost 20 pounds and have not had one problem. Good luck to the both of you!