I'm 47, male, work in law enforcement (retiring in April) and have passed all of my pre-screening examinations. Just have to attend a few nutrition classes while my 6 month mandatory diet is completed. I reached an all-time high of 308 in late May after a prolonged bout with pneumonia and several courses of IV and oral steroids. All of that is resolved now and I am already down to 251 (I'm 5'11"). Generally good health, but was on the verge of pre-diabetes. I have well controlled HBP and some GERD and lower back pain; all of which are caused or aggravated by my weight. I'm trying to lose as much weight as possible to make the surgery as easy as possible. I know that if I don't have it, I will regain the weight over time. I'm located in northeastern PA and will be having the Realize Band placed by Dr. Michael Bono at Hazleton General Hospital. I would love to have someone who went through the banding procedure, preferably around my age, but not necessarily, to kind of baby sit me as I go through this. although I have worked in law enforcement for 25 years, I'm a big baby when it comes to medical procedures. Thanks! Please contact me.

Dan

Hi Dan,

Sounds like you are really mentally ready for the band. Great weight loss pre-surgery. I started the process @ 337 and lost 50 lbs pre-surgery. Lost 64 post-op. I was banded 5/11/09 and just reached my goal of 223.

Would be glad to help you through the process. I'll send you my email address.

John