Hi everyone I am a bit of a newbie to all of this. I hope I am not intruding-I am from Australia. I could really do with some support and encouragement. I have had my consult with the Surgeon and am now booked for surgery on January 18th. I am being banded as well as having my gall Bladder removed. This is due to a "very" large (single) Gall Stone that has been giving me grief-especially this year. I am not insured and have borrowed the entire amount from the bank. I have only told my best friend. I am a single Mum to miss 8 and miss 10. My parents would not understand. I have struggled with my weight for over 30 years and tried every diet known to man and then some I am the master of yo yo dieting (hence the big stone) and I also have sleep apnoea, high blood pressure and experienced insulin dependent Gestational Diabetes with both my pregnancies. I have given this procedure a lot of thought and researched information extensively. I am nervous and excited at the same time. I know I will have to put in and work hard along with my band to see the best results..and I can hardly wait. If Christmas and several big family gatherings were not coming up I would have the surgery tomorrow. I have been reading the forums with interest and it is great to find a place where we can all share our experiences.