I am Laura, and I'm a food-a-holic. I've been overweight since I was a kid, and I just turned 50. I don't remember ever feeling full in my life. I can eat more than a man, and still eat more. I eat when no one is watching; I eat when I'm happy, scared, lonelt, depressed = I need no reason. I know that if I don't do something immediately, I'll die before I'm 60. My dues (we were estranged) died in his 40's of a massive heart attack; and the youngerst of my 3 brothers has had several strokes. And still I eat. My blood pressure is high; I have a high-stress job as a nursing director; I have a gorgeous, fit husband and 3 daughters - all but 1 struggles with their weight. I am ready to be healthy.

So, I've been to the surgeon. I've been told I am a perfect candidate for lap band. I'm waiting for a letter of denial from my primary insurance which does not cover the bnd before I submit my info to BCBC - Fed, which pays 100% after the first $100. I'm angry that my primary has already taken a month and still no denial letter, even though it will be denied.

I want to get started. I want to quit eating enough for an 18 year old boy. I know I can't do it on my own. I'm 5'5 and I weigh 240.

I'll keep trachk of my journey here. My surgeon is Briget Brady in Austin.

Welcome to LBT Laura! Yours sounds like a familiar story! I turn 50 on the 27th. I can eat more than my teenage boys...and let me tell you those too-skinny boys can eat A LOT! I also have high blood pressure, and one of my sisters has had two stroke (also diabetes, and high blood pressure). My dad has had 2 heart attacks (he's overweight but not huge...all 5 of us kids are though). Sounds familiar huh? You'll get there soon!!! You're on the journey now and that's a step in the right direction! Hang in there! -BG

Congrats on your decision to take control of your life and your health. And thanks for sharing your story with us.

I am Lisa and I also have been overweight all my life.(age 54). My surgery is scheduled for 4-22-09. Like you I have FED BCBS and after I had done all my schedule test and the papers were sent in, it was approved in less than a week. Their should be no waiting much there. Just stick with it.

Thanks guys. This blog thing really works. I can't wait to share things with my new friends.