Hi all -

Well, let's start at the beginning. I'm 31 years old and I've been overweight my whole life.

Seriously! I remember being on a diet in Kindergarten. What that does to my views on food and dieting, we'll leave to another discussion.

Anyway, I've lost and gained over the years. Sometimes I've done really well on my own (40 lbs. once). Then I gain it all back, plus++++!!!

So, now, here I am. Ready and Waiting to get Banded.

First Appt with Dr: Sept 14, 2009

Went well, I seem to be a good candidate.

sleep Study: Sept 30, 2009

:frown:Found out I have Sleep Apnea, now I need a return visit and maybe wear a mask! YIKES.:thumbup:

Nutrition Consult: Oct 13, 2009

Went well. Have my guidelines for pre, post, and continuing nutrition.

Second Sleep Study Scheduled: Oct 26, 2009 :sneaky:

Psych Eval: Nov 9, 2009

Provided those are all good:

Evaluation and Pre-op: Nov 23, 2009

Surgery Date: Dec 3, 2009

This all means I will be on pre-op diet for Thanksgiving and post-op for my Birthday and Christmas in December. I'm a bit worried about that, but I won't let it stop me from getting my band.

I'll post updates as I go along and troll this board for advice and inspiration.

You have taken on quite a challenge for yourself doing all this over the holiday season. You will surprise yourself how wonderful you will do though because you now are motivated to change your life. Your success during this time will really help to keep you motivated.

You will think to yourself, if I can stick to this pre-op and post-op diet during the holiday season I CAN DO ANYTHING!

I wish you great success! You can do this!

Best of luck:thumbup:

I too am just starting down this journey of change. I have been a big guy for far to long. Keep us posted on your progress.

Thanks for the support. I'll definite post updates here and track my journey.

My surgery will probably be around the holidays also. Yes, it will be difficult. Everyone keeps saying to wait until after the holidays. For what? So I can eat the 10 lbs. I've lost back on!! No way! :w00t: Even if I'm not banded until after I'm going to act as if I am. I just look at it as a Christmas present to myself! :scared2: Good luck and maybe we can follow each other's journey. Oh! and welcome!

Monday will be 4 weeks since my surgery. I have thought alot about the holidays and how I will handle that but I guess it is like I doing now, one day at a time. It's tough especially when I don't think I have ever found a food I didn't like but I will make it I am so determined this time and I know you will do great.:scared2:

You can do it TBird.... you can! And like someone else said if you can conquer this during the holiday season you can do anything!!!