I wish my first post would have been introducing myself and maybe asking a question or two, but no I panicked because I was told I had to get an evaluation done on me. I am talking a mental evaluation before they submit to my insurance.

So I apologize for that, thanks for the 2 responses though.

My name is Ray (well not really, but close) I am 42, I have a BMI of 40+ and I am going to do this, I have made up my mind. I have hypertension and type II diabetes. Ever since turning 40 I think of death a lot. It has to be my lifestyle, I drink and eat a lot. I go on and off diets for the last 20 years (I was voted most likely to be on a diet over and over again at my technical school). I have to admit I am getting a little nervous but I have to do this to take care of my family, I have 4 kids and my lovely wife of almost 20 years.

I am looking forward to getting one of those tickers that keeps track of my progress, and updating pics as much as I can. I have read a lot on these forums so I don't really have questions yet, but I did want to introduce my self in case I do have to ask something when the date gets closer. Right now I am just waiting to hear from my insurance.

One thing, when I had that evaluation the psychiatrist asked me If I would commit suicide by doing this, I told her "I am doing this to live, I am doing this to to see my son and daughters start a family, I am doing this to see my grandchildren." She then approved me.

Talk to you soon.

I was self pay, and so I examed myself. I still am not sure how much the lapband has helped my appetite or not. I did it because I was very close to full blown diabetes and have no insurance, so I knew I had to do whatever to turn things around. Its going to be harder if you have to battle insulin out of control, because that put on a lot of my extra weight, not just food, but wrong food. So, the only way to succeed is to also pretty much start eating better foods, not just how much. Good luck. Its up to you how well you do. I wanted to live longer too.

You sound like really want this and THAT will help you succeed!! As you will read over and over the band is a tool not a "fix" but I have to tell you it has been a blessing to me. I have not had to "diet" thus far and am doing pretty good. I have changed my eating habits, portion size and my food choices, all with the help of determination and the band.

YOU CAN DO THIS!!! :laugh: Good-Luck to you on your journey and tag back to read more info to help you as you go!