..... and super nervous, excited, hopeful. All the things I'm sure most people go through before they make a major life change. I told my family about my decision to be banded - I was worried I'd have to really defend my position - but I didn't. They asked thoughtful questions, and I answered them the best I could.

I've had my psych visit (super easy), my nutritionist visit (interesting!) and met with my surgeon's resident. After all of that (and xrays for ankle issues, and a sleep study for sleep apnea), my insurance approved my the first time! I was surprised - I really thought they'd either flat out deny it, or it would be a back and forth issue to get there. My BMI has not been over 40 for 2 years - it's flucuated. However - I needn't have worried - it went smoothly. I feel like I've invested alot of money already with all these visits. My out of pocket was estimated at $2400 - that seems quite reasonable to me. Also, I can go on a payment plan (yippee!!).

Sorting out my emotional eating from my eating for hunger has been what I've been concentrating on. I def. eat out of boredom, stress, etc - and I hope, hope, hope I can stop doing this, in order to make the band work.

Right now, I've been eating quite healthfully, as my husband just got diagnosed with diabetes and high cholesterol. It's funny how it's easier to eat healthfully for someone else, but not just for myself. Something to ponder.

I'd love to hear back from others, and would be very interested in meeting people in the NC/Raleigh/Triangle area who are in a similar situation, or have already been banded. :thumbup:

Take care and God Bless!

-Tracey