I'm new to this "blogging" thing, but I'm gonna give it my best shot. I'm on a mission to get healthy, and beautiful along the way would be so nice. I'm a 43 y.o. mom of 4 young men. One of which is making me a grandma in August. Another reason to get healthy.

I've been researching the lapband procedure for over a year and have scheduled my surgery for May 14, 2009. I have to wait that long because I'm in nursing school and that will be the end of the semester. I will be flying from Atlanta to Denver to see Dr. Kirschenbaum. (total $9950) It's a savings of around $3500 overall and being self pay every little bit helps.

My BMI is currently 36 and I have about 90 pounds to lose. I have plantar fascitis, arthritis pain in my hips and knees and I suffer with depression. I'm hoping all these things will resolve with weight loss.

I'm planning to start a high protein, low carb diet two weeks prior to surgery. The hardest thing for me is going to be giving up those dang diet cokes! :wink_smile:

I'm planning on using Atlanta Bariatrics for my follow up and fills. Problem is they won't even make me an appointment until after they see my operative report. Then they'll decide if they'll take me on as a patient. So, hopefully no complications!