Hi All Getting nervous I have my first appt on Friday to meet a doctor and talk about having the surgery. My BMI is 53 so I think this would be the best "help" I need, hubby said the first step is saying you can't do it by yourself and he is right. Just want to get past this part and him tell me that it can be done and move onto having all the tests that I will need and anything else that needs to be done. I have already started to cut back on my soda (I think my biggest hurdle) I only drink Coke zero since I have type 2 and it doesn't have any sugar in it, but I do love my Target cherry/limeade (just like Crystal light). I have my last blood work from my primary all printed out for him and will have my past 2yrs weights from the primary all ready for him so I don't have to bring them to him. I know the insurance co has relaxed their requirements since I first looked into having the band done so hopeful just don't want to get to hopeful yet. After all these years I know I am ready to finally take my life in my own hands and say I Am THE ONE IN CHARGE FOOD DOES NOT DEFINE WHO I AM! Surprising my only big problem is the type 2, cholestrol is good, kidney function is really good since last Summer after an infection I had kidney failure, heart is good, just get winded when I have to go up stairs. I already have a gym membership to a really nice place. I was wondering if anybody could tell me how long the recovery period is after the banding, would I be able to go back to the gym say a few days later or weeks? If anybody can give me pointers or advice I would love it. Good luck to all of us because we all deserve to be happy!!!!!