This feels a little surreal, this whole journey toward banding. I have been thinking about this for a long time, but finally decided that NOW is the time for ME.

I attended an informational session on July 1, 2009, and walked out of that meeting feeling as if I had found HOPE. That session was followed by my first appointment with my surgeon, and then the psych consult and nutritionist. The day that I had gotten the approval of my insurance company , I cried tears of joy. I knew this was going to change my life for the better!

I have just finished Day 2 of my "liver shrink" diet, and my surgery is set for October 19th. I still have not found a protien shake that tastes ok, but I will continue to do what my Doctor tells me to, since I know this is the intervention I needed to get myself back on track and back into life.

I have told my family, my co-workers, and friends of this decision of mine, and the support I have received back from all has been so heartwarming. I know that with so many people cheering me on, I will make it!

This is NOT taking the easy way out - this is making a committment to myself to become a healthier person. And this is a committment I intend to keep.

When I read your story I felt like it was my story. You're going to make it through this crazy liver shrinking process. The surgery itself is a relatively easy process, there is little to minimial pain. This tool you're about to give yourself is such a gift, and you should feel hopeful. More than that you should feel flippin excited because your life is getting ready to change for the better! Good luck!

thank you - I really need to hear your words tonight! 6 more days, and I am continuing to just about count the hours until I head to the hospital! Thanks again for the support - I have people around me supporting me, but I am finding I need people who have been down this road, or who are headed down with me, just as much.