I have been so undecided about this surgery that I even canceled my last appoitment which was actually today. I am 5'6 and weigh 195 lb. I have gotten so much slack from friends and relatives about doing this. Everyone seems to know better than I about whats best for me. I can loose the weight and I've done it before. My problem is I gain in right back + 5-10 lb. My husband is supportive fortunatley and so are my children. I need to stop getting so frustrated with myself and have faith that this is a new beginning for myself. I look forward to no diet cokes and miller lights the most. I am basically killing myself if I dont do this.

Thanks to everyone and your messages. This has been a major support form me and I give you all my love and wish you the best:whoo:

I too am 5' 6" but weighed 170, down from 180.

I did not tell anyone because of the same flack that you received.

I knew they would never see or understand the root of my problem and the future that awaited me if I didn't change something.

I was banded one week ago on Aug 20th and can tell you it is soooo freeing to know that I will never be overweight again.

My family has history of obesity, strong history, and I was going to stop the inevitable before it was too late.

Don't worry about what others think. It is a personal decision.

I have selectively told a hand full of friends since the surgery and they were shocked but supportive. They had a thousand questions but I didn't have to justify myself, only give them answers for their curiosity.

Stay strong, do it for you and your life - it won't work if you do it for any other reason. Best of everything to you!

I made the mistake of telling everyone within hearing distance. Big mistake. My sisters in law want to know: how much do you want to loose? I am so thrilled you are doing this; I was glad to hear her say this, but over and over and over again and again and again. I thought, "Good grief. I must be a blimp the whole family is talking about". Then they say "you mean she had 3 drops of broth and 4 spoons of jello and she is full". Leave me the f#$% alone!!!

This is your life and only you and you alone can decide that is best for you. Hang in there and you will know what to do.