Hello everyone. My name is Ebony and I am 28 years old. I am 5'6 and I weigh 404 pounds. I have been overweight all of my life and I am tired of carrying all of this extra weight. I am starting to have so many problems because of my extra weight. I am on daily meds for blood pressure and knee pain. My whole body aches daily and I just cannot take it anymore. I am getting married in less than 2 months and my wedding dress barely fits.

I am thinking about getting the weight loss surgery but I am very nervous. I know that it is a lifestyle change and I am afraid that I will not be able to handle it. I LOVE TO EAT! I sometimes eat until I am stuffed (which is wrong). I know that there are major problems that can come with the surgery and I am not sure that I want to subject me, my body, or my family to them.

I am also scared that I will not be able to control my weight loss. I do not want to be stick thin and I am nervous about getting "too thin" if I get the surgery. Can anyone please give me any advice. All is welcomed and appreciated.

Thanks,

Ebony

Welcome Ebony! I too was over 400 lbs when I started my process, 415 to be exact. I was fed up with my aches and pains and had done many diets before, with little or no success. I was banded 11/14/08 and I am down over 80lbs! It was the best thing I have done for myself, it has given me my life back! I know I will never be stick thing but I want to be healthy, have children, and have a future. The route I was going before there would have been no future. I can't tell you enough how wonderful the band is and would suggest it to anyone. However you should go to a seminar in your area and learn more on what it actually is, and perhaps meet with a surgeon . Good luck to you!

Hello Jenny. Thanks for your reply. I am attending a seminar this Thursday in my area. I really have to think long and hard about getting the surgery because I have to make sure that I will be able to handle all that comes with it. I don't want to damage by body more than it has already been damaged but I also want to have kids (my weight is not permitting me too at this time) and a healthy life.

Before making the decision to have the surgery you must be ready to make a life changing commitment. I also love food and that is what has got me to the weight I'm at now. Most doctors have you meet with a psychologist and a dietitian. You obviously are aware that you need to lose weight and want to but are you mentally prepared to eat healthy? I am working with a doctor to hopefully be banded in the next few months but until then I know that I should be trying to lose on my own. If you are really ready to change please find a seminar in your area and make an apt to talk to your own personal physician. Your doctor might be the best start at getting the information you need. When you go to the appointments it is always helpful to keep a folder with you so you can collect all the information and to take notes. The people who use the discussion boards are very helpful and perhaps there is someone in your area on the boards who can help you find a surgeon you can be comfortable with. Good luck and if you need some motivation we are all here for you.:wink: