My husband and I go Saturday (2-27) for the LAP-BAND® seminar. Why should I be depressed you ask? Simple. In order for my insurance to pay for the surgery, I have to be morbidly obese (no surprise there) or, obese with other major heath issues.

I'm five pounds under the magic fat zone. I've always been healthy, no high blood pressure, no diabetes. What I do have is asthma and this makes exercise very difficult. The amount of weight my frame is carrying around makes my asthma even worse! Unfortunately, asthma is NOT one of the issues that will qualify me without those extra five pounds.

I'm going and praying that I somehow qualify. I'm tired of being fat. I'm tired of dieting and starving myself to lose weight, only to gain it all back and more. I'm tired of my self esteem being in the toilet (a dirty toilet at that!).

I'll be back after I get the word. Wish me luck!

Try not to be discouraged. I was not at a BMI of 40 and I was able to get approved. There is a lot of time involved with the dietician. He/She may be able to steer you in the right direction. ~Good Luck~

If I were you I would drink and drink and drink tons of water before I went. Then you will easily being holding that 5 extra pounds. Also wear thick heavy jeans and put keys in your pockets!!! The first weigh in is the only one that matters (at least at kaiser) it was. GOOD LUCK!!! Ps it might be fun to "have" to gain a few pounds lol

5 pounds is easy peasy...it's winter, wear boots, and your phone, and your wallet in your pocket like guys do...with lots of change, layers are needed because it's cold out, jeans are warm, heavy jewlery is in, and lots of food and water, water, water!

Be careful on the heavy boots because some of the scales require a skin contact on your feet...bare! One gallon of water weighs eight pounds...might want to wear a big pad in case...they cant make you take THAT off even if youre in a gown! Good luck youll be fine!

I also was not as 40 BMI I think it was like 34 and I got it done. Asthma and artritis are to things that should help you get approved

Thanks for the support and helpful hints everyone!