Today I had some very bad news. I gained 60 lbs over the course of this year which has caused me to form diabetes. I also have very high blood pressure. I had my daughter 2 years ago next month and since then my weight has been up and down, mostly up in 2009. I have been so stressed and unhappy it has been terrible. I have tried everything and I am not at a point where my health is so far that I can continue this way. After lots of researched I have decided to get Lap Band surgery. I found this blog to help me through this and see other's success so that I can make it. I want to be active again and I want to be there for my daughter her whole life. I feel tired and old and I am only 27. I am all done with this life and on to new things!!

Best decision you will ever make. Five months ago and 60 lbs less, I take NO MORE Metphormin or Celebrex for pain caused by Osteoarthritis (being overweight). Great! Keep in touch.

I had my surgery April 2009 lost 45 lbs(yes it was slow for me but dramatic changes in my clothes) no more meds for diabetes. Look and Feel 100% better. I know it will work for you. I have a way to go and 2010 will be the year I step out as a New Beautiful Woman again.

Call a surgeon or bariatric center in your area and get the ball rolling. While your balls are rolling you will most likely have a 3 to 6 month supervised diet period required by insurance. Use this time wisely to research as much as you can about the lapband procedure and your surgeon.

Most of all, be very aware that the lapband is not a magic pill it is a tool. It does not make you lose weight. YOU have to lose the weight yourself by limiting your portions. The lapband will help by making you feel full sooner. You have to be ready to change your eating habits for the rest of your life.

If you have questions, ask them here or of your surgeon's staff. Do NOT hold back. There is no such thing as a stupid question. Especially when dealing with your wellbeing.

Good luck and good banding!