One day during the summer of 2008 I was talking to a friend that has RnY surgery. I told her if I could have surgery then it would be LAP-BAND®®. I had researched options and decided that it would be the best for me. She told me that only thing she ever regretted was that she didn't do it sooner. I hate regrets and that was when I decided that I didn't want to look back and say that I should have done this when I was in my 30's.

It was months later that talked to my husband about LAP-BAND®® again. Other times he had brushed off the idea. He has always told me that he thinks I am beautiful. He would never comment against my weight. One night after being intimate...and embarrassed about how I felt I opened up to him. I told him about how I felt moving in bed to get comfortable with pillows. I told him how it is for me to fly and how I am always worried that the seat belt won't buckle or that people are worried they will have to sit next to me. I told him that I hate to sit on the bleachers and watch the kids because I feel like a lump on a log. I feel like no one wants to talk to me because of my weight. I hate the way I feel. I can't cross my legs or walk up the stairs without becoming winded. After bearing my soul he agreed to supporting me in getting the surgery. I didn't realize that within 3 months I would have that opportunity.

I had a phone consult in September and was scheduled for surgery on October 29th, 2008. I lost 14 lbs on my pre-op diet. Dr. K said something that just clicked. If you aren't hungry don't eat. That sounds simple, but it is the one lesson that has helped me more than any other. Within weeks I could start wearing clothes that had been too small for me.

In a couple of weeks I was more comfortable with my husband. It took months for people to notice my weight loss because I had to lose 40 lbs before it was obvious.

Six months after surgery I walked onto an airplane, walked down the isle without turning sideways sat down and crossed my legs. I almost cried. I have learned where to shop for good clothes that you only wear 2 months.

Where am I one year later?

I have lost 115 pounds. It is completely unreal to be a person that can say something like that! I am no different than you are. I follow the guidelines. I work hard. It is not an easy way out. The band dims your appetite. It helps you get full faster. I can tell you if I can do it then you can do it too.

I hope you will take the time to read my blog. If you want to know how I did it...that will tell you all about my journey. I am still working hard. I love life. I love to dress up and dress down to go to my kids ballgames. I love to travel. I love to see myself in pictures with my family. It is all possible. If I can do this then you can too!

Much love!

Edited November 10, 200916 yr by julie.ann

Thanks for sharing your story, you look incredible.

I havetalked to people who have lost and gained back, and those who have lost and kept it off. The difference is that those who kept it off followed the guidelines. Not one person who gained could say that they did, indeed, follow the guidelines. And their advice? You guessed it... follow the guidelines. That's not always easy, but that is what this site is for. And, Julie.Ann, you are the inspiration that gives me the strength to say 'No' to the things not good for me. Thank you for sharing! You look awesome!

Hang in there everyone! We can do it!! If you've slipped up, just get back up and start again! We Can Do It!!!

Congratulations! Your pictures and your story are awesome and inspiring.

Sue

Thanks for sharing your story. It's just what I needed to read today! :tongue2:

U look wonderful! Thanks so much for sharing! I was banded on 10/27/09. I am currently 17 lbs down. I am so ready to feel good about myself! Congratulations!

What a great story! Your pics are incredible. You go girl!:confused:

Unbelievable! You look fantastic. I am getting banded on Dec 3rd. Can't wait. You give me so much hope. I have 95 lbs to lose. Thanks for sharing your wonderful journey!

yOU LOOK SO GOOD, YOU EVEN LOOK YOUNGER, KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.

Wow, you look great. Thanks so much for sharing your story. I go on Monday for my first consult meeting... it is a little scary but I know it will be a tool to help me get this weight off. Great pictures!

Heidi

Very well done! You have done so well and You are so Pretty and look a different person...:thumbup:

I start my Pre op diet next week BMI 41

Best Regards

Dawnxx