Hello Claud,
Welcome to the forum! I had the lapband with plication surgery on August 11, 2011. I have had huge success with my weight loss. As of today, I have lost 71 pounds. I started at 253 and am now weighing in at 182. I have had very consistent weight loss at a good pace. I have not hit that yucky plateau yet. My biggest piece of advice to you though is the exercize is key, so though your activity may be limited due to your health issues, do what you can to start off and as the weight drops you should be able to do more. I am enjoying life and living a very active life- roller skating, snow skiing, bike riding, etc. You name it, I am doing it. I too had hbp and knee problems, but I am feeling great now.
Good luck with your journey! Work hard and you will do fine!