Best wishes to you. I kept mine a secret too. Still haven't told people - however, people will speculate on how you've lost weight, but who cares.

Its the best decision I have ever made and done for myself.

i kept my a secret too from family. But leave it kids, they tell all. Mine is no longer a secret, but i ppl can definately see the change in my attitude and appearance. I wish you the best of luck!

hopefully beings how people know how much i work out they will think it is my working out. That made the weight loss and im going to say i went home for a mini vacation cause i know i will have a speedy returne

I work in law enforcement too. I am a dispatcher i So Cal and eating is definitely a challenge. But can I ask if you are down to 216 right now why you would want to take drastic measures like the lap band? It is not easier - it is ONLY A TOOL. The only reason I am telling you this is because I do know. I just finished my two weeks of liquid protein only and had my surgery on Monday. Only time will tell if I am so sure about this. I am praying for the best. I started off at 278 on my first dr apt in December '08. Went on WW right away and between that and the liquid diet I weighed in at 263 on Monday before my surgery. I struggled with this decision for the last two weeks. Think about what you are doing..think long and hard. Try doing the liquid protein shake for two weeks and see what you think then. Its hard! SO VERY HARD! But it might make you realize that you can do it with out this procedure. If you insurance isnt covering it than maybe there is a reason.

I am not trying to be Debbie downer for you, but I know if I were in your shoes I would get myself on the liquid diet to see what life will REALLY be like on the other side. Then try a physical trainer to kick your bootie and work on your eating. If you can stick to the liquid for two weeks than you know you can tell yourself that you can stop half way thru a large meal.

Your a pretty girl and you appear to be young and healthy. If you have any questions (please dont be too angry by my response - I just want to help, because if I were in your shoes I wish I could have advise from someone who had done this) please contact me with any questions. And if I put my nose where it doesnt belong I am sorry.