Well I will have my bandiversary this week. Hard to believe. I keep thinking about what I was doing a year ago and how I felt and how hopeful and excited and scared I was. I was so afraid that this wouldn't work. Would I spend this money and not do what I had to do. I knew it would be hard, but what if I failed? I wouldn't have anything to hide behind. I would have pulled out all the stops and still weighed 285 lbs and stood at only 5'4". Okay I am still 5'4", but now am about 170-175 lbs. My lightest has been 168 and I need to get back on program. I have been maintaining, but I would like to lose more....and I will. I know I will because I know I can.

I am starting to not be happy with what I see in the mirror. I want to get down another size, but at a size 11/12 I never would have thought 1 year ago that I would have wanted to lose more than that. I am happy with my progress. I have had 4 fills and 1 very recent unfill. I am really perfect now. (you know what I mean)

I am thankful every day! Money has gotten tight and I know that the $263 monthly surgery loan payment is the biggest part of that, but I can't help but think that it is still worth it. I look at pictures of myself from before and my kids and husband say they don't even remember me looking like that. I am used to people I know looking right past me. I have even found myself not striking up a conversation when I am in a hurry (like in line at Walmart) because it takes people a few seconds to even figure out who I am and then they want to hear all about how I lost my weight.

I still haven't told EVERYBODY, but I have told a lot of people.

For all of those wondering if you should get banded....know that it is hard work. It is a high protein diet for me and you HAVE to learn the difference between stomach hunger and head hunger, but if you are willing to work hard and want a tool that will help you get there.....this is it.

I love my band!

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I am almost five months banded. You look absolutely great. You are adorable. I am also very grateful for this chance but ready to move a little faster. I am 206, anxious to get in Onderland but it seems to be taking forever. Good luck and God bless.

WOW Julie you look fantastic! Thanks for sharing with us & best wishes

Congrats Julie.. you look awsome. Thanks for sharing what an encourgament.. I weighed 288 on surgery day April 15th 09.. I'm stuck at 255 and due to get my 3rd fill today... From reading your story I have hope again.. My goal is 190.. I'm 5"6. Keep up the good work...

Julie Ann you look amazing! Love the new pic! You're always an inspiration and have such great and useful advice. Your blog has been invaluable to me. You look fantastic!!!! -BG

Thanks guys....you are the best!

Hi julie.ann. I am amazed at your story. I was banded December 18 2008 and have lost 70 lbs. I have lost a bit more but have gained it back. My band was to tight and I am tring to get back on track. I once weighed 400 lbs and am at 290. I know what you are talking about how hard life is for a 290 lb person. Its better then 400 I was in a wheelchair most of the time and now am out of the chair and working 2 days a week. Its hard everyday to be on track eatting and exercizing.

I need to remember everyday is a new day and maybe yesterday was a bad day but the next day will be better.

This website is a great tool. I need to get my pictures online like you and spend more time on lapbandtalk.

I would like to talk more, so send me a post.

Have a great day.

Picklesnanny

You are an inspiration to everyone who wants to succeed with the lap band procedure. You should be very proud of yourself! We are proud of you.

Yes you are an inspiration! I too am 5'4, banded 8/25, day of surgery 259 and now 223. My goal is at least 150. Everything you have said is absolutely true. It is work and commitment (and willpower I think!)

You look great! I went for the seminar last month and go for consultation 1-7-10. I can't wait!!!

You look great! I went for the seminar last month and go for consultation 1-7-10. I can't wait!!!

My consult is tomorrow, too!

All of you are such an inspiration. I love reading everyone's blogs. Good or bad it all helps me.

I always love the before and after pics and success stories. You look amazing!