Well this is my first entry into my Lapband Talk Journal. So I figured I would start by introducing myself, for those who don't know me...

My name is Ashley, I am currently 22 years old. (I will be turning 23 in 3 days *6/7/07*)

I was born in raised in a small little town in Oklahoma. My high school graduating class was only 42 people.

I am currently enrolled in Tulsa Technology College for Court Stenography, and I work full time as a Medical Receptionist.

I am single, no children, and still live at home. Yes, I know how boring it seems, I live it every day!

My weight problems all started when I was around 6 years old, (First grade). I have never been slim, I wouldn't even know what that would be like.

I have been on just about every diet you can think of. Trimspa, Weight Watchers, EDiets, and some prescription diet pills.

Weight Watchers I had the most success with, I lost 30lbs, but then gained it all back.

I have spent my entire life justifying my size to myself. Telling myself I was a big girl, and I would always be a big girl, and I just needed to deal with that fact... Once I hit 300lbs, I realized that I needed to do something. I am only 22, and I can't even play with my niece w/out losing my breath. Not to mention, at this weight, let's face it, I'm never going to love myself, let alone find someone else to love me...

Gastric Bypass was never an option for me. It always seemed far too invasive for me. But when I started hearing about LapBand it really seemed like something that could benefit me, so I started researching it.

I was rather nervous when I presented the idea to my parents, but they were both very supportive, thank god.

So we started the process. My mother who is an RN had in her mind right away which surgeon she wanted me to see, so her and I went to his informational seminar.

My mom has done everything with me so far. She's been such a great supporter.

As much as I should be dieting before my surgery, I just can't bring myself to... But I have no doubt that I'm going to succeed, with the drive that I have. I'm not exactly pigging out right now, I haven't eaten anything different than usual, I'm just not exactly watching myself either...

I can't wait to join the banded lifestyle tho!

And I won't lie, I can't wait until I get to throw it in all the guy's faces who've turned me down in the past, because I wasn't skinny...

I have one month, and 6 days til my surgery date. Until then my journal will probably be more geared towards what's going on in my life, and then I will keep you more informed about my life with the band, once I'm banded!

~*Ash*~

P.S. I promise the next posts won't be NEAR as long. :-P