I enjoy reading the different entries. It so gives us all a chance to ask questions, vent, share, etc. This section has been a Godsend to me many times over the past 6 months.

I am realitively newly banded (August 2011), and I am very proud to say I have lost 70+ pounds to date. I want to share my best advice with those who may need it.

#1 find a doctor/surgeon you have confidence in - one that will take their time with you, answer all your questions, and give you the truth.

#2 remember that having the lapband procedure (or any WLS) is a personal choice, and no one can make it for you.

#3 if you decide to go ahead an have the lapband surgery done, you will need to work to make it a success. Remember, the band is not a cure all for weight loss. Along with the band comes hard word.

#4 you will have to follow the rules given you by your doctor.

#5 no matter how how you try to avoid it, you will have to exercise. No excuses will be tolerated.

#6 you are going to have to say good bye to the bad foods if you really want to be successful. That means saying no to chips, candy, popcorn, bread, cookies, cake, ice cream and a whole host of other foods that have caused us to become overweight.

#7 reconfirm your convictions.

#8 find family and friends who will support you throughout your journey.

#9 be proud if you made the decision to have wls. Anyone who says you could have done it without surgery has probably never been overweight. Me??? I was obese, I weighed 299 at my heaviest point, and decided then and there I had to do something so I would be around to dance at my granddaughter's wedding (she's only 9).

#10 after care is a must. I started getting fills 1 month after surgery and have received one every 2 weeks since then, 8 total. I have finally reached the green zone after 4 1/2 months.

Be sure to drink you water, eat your protein first, and then fiber, fuits and veggies.

Most of all, have faith in yourself and your decision. It took me 10 years to have wls, and I am a self-pay. It was the best money I have ever spent. I am now more than 1/2 way to my goal, and once I reach that, tummy tuck here I come.

I LOVE MY BAND, AND I BELIEVE YOU WILL TOO.