Hi all,

My name is Michael Brown and I was banded 7/9/07 by Dr. Nirmal Jayaseelan in Dallas, TX.

My highest pre-band weight was 396 pounds. I managed to get down to 285 on the Atkins diet (three times). On my way back up the fourth time, I decided I needed to do something different and that's when I found the band and Dr. Jayaseelan.

At the time of my surgery, I weighed in at 346. I had gotten down to 239, but due to stress and other factors, I had to have some fluid removed from my band. Today I am at 268, back on the bandwagon, and dropping again. I hope to reach my goal of 220 by the end of the year, though I am giving myself until this time next year.

I know that the band saved my life. I hate to even think about what things would be like without it.

I have to give a BIG thanks to Cynthia Jones O'Kelly for being a source of inspiration and support along the way, and to Dr. Jayaseelan because he's awesome. Cynthia and Dr. Jay wrote a book together and, I have to say, I wish the book had been available when I started the process. It really does answer every question I ever had.

I am a co-moderator of a large Yahoo-based lapband support group and attend various support groups in the DFW area. I love talking to people and sharing my story. The opportunity to watch and help people as they go through their journey is incredible. I remember how nervous I was when I started the process and I love having the opportunity to help others get through that stage.

Thanks,

Michael