After 19 months I've only just had my first fill a few weeks ago. I am one of the small precentage of banders who had complications. (Not sure what that was about) Still After all these months I believe this was a good choice for me. I was one who had been underweight for the first half of my life. I only breifly was at a normal weight. The rest found me at 279 lbs at my heaviest. a few persons I know had by-pass surgery. I'd even cared for by-pass patients during my early nurseing years. I knew that was not for me.

This banding thing, after musch time on the net and my PCP's cry of too many "pre" stuff to name. Another diet, more shots and pills were not going to do it. An accident had slowed me down physically and mentally.

I gained back the 45 lbs I'd lost on my last plan and swing dance class plus a few more.

After surgery I lost 100 lbs because I was sick then gained back 20lbs once I could eat again.

Now. I get to use my tool, learn new coping skills and cooking methods. I 'm learning to understand my relationship with food and make changes to be healthy for the rest of my life.

This is wonderful. I love my surgeon. He confrenced with all my doctors during my illness and I count him as my friend. I'm grateful for the person who created this web site and I'm most thankful for a chance to live a truely abundant life. :frown: