Hi everyone!! My name is Gaby and I'm 27 years-old, I have a 3 year old daughter who is EVERYTHING to me. I am 5'6, 298 lbs. I started putting on weight in 1997 when I was super happy at 169 lbs... and since then I just haven't stopped gaining weight.

My family doctor and I both agreed that LapBand was a good choice for me and so I was referred to a LapBand surgeon who I met once 3 weeks ago, and he seems great. I have to meet with a dietician tomorrow. I also have to meet with a cardiologist, pulmonary doctor and a psychiatrist before my next meeting with my surgeon on December 17.

I can't wait to get going with this. My insurance, so far, has approved to pay for all of it. I keep doing research about it, even though I'm decided to do this, and every now and then I end up at some anti-LapBand site and it freaks me out.

So I guess I'm here for support, advice, friends and whatever you all will provide.

Thanks for reading.

p.s. Any idea what to expect from the meeting with a dietician tomorrow?

Welcome to the Board. I've been reading the messages here a lot and everyone seems to be very nice and helpful. You will find that there are many people who have the same questions, concerns and fears.

My dietician apt was pretty uneventful. She was very nice and we discussed eating habits and what to expect after you are banded. The nicest thing, for me, was the fact she was not judgemental. I went to a doctor once concerned about my weight and he told me I just needed to push away from the table. I shruged off his comment as being a not very nice person but his comment has stayed with me for over 18 years.

My advice is read, write down your feelings and questions (nothing is too silly or small), If you are into it take a look at orlive.com and see some actual Lap Band surgeries (they were very cool)

I go to my first support group meeting tonight and my head is filled with questions.

I'm hoping to get my band date in January 09, but I will find out 1/24 when I see the surgon.

Thanks Ann! So when do you think you'll have the procedure done?

My best guess is January 15thish.

Hi Gaby

Just picked up your email, I had my operation last Thursday morning. I felt all the apprehensions you are having. When you see your dietician they will probably ask you to keep a food diary for a month. Be absolutely honest in it. I have always taken the easy way and cheated about my food intake etc and in the end you con yourself and all you get is unhappier. Be frank woth them and remember of you have a lapse, then record it.YOU ARE NOT A FAILURE. I wish I had known about lap bands years ago as I have suffered for too long.. This is your great opportunity to change your stars and good luck!

Thank you Morgan... I wish I had a good idea when I was having the procedure done, I'm so excited.

So how are you feeling, how's it been so far?