In 2010 and at my highest weight (315 lbs), I was told by my primary care doctor that because of health conditions related to my weight, there was a big possibility that I would not see my daughter graduate from high school. I think of this as my wake up call and is when I asked about bariatric surgery options. After much research and discussions with my family, I decided to go with gastric banding and had the surgery in April 2011. It has been a bumpy road caused by issues with my port and even though I have not reached my goal weight, I know the surgery was the best decision I could have made for myself because I am healthier. I no longer have diabetes or high blood pressure, I can move easier and as I grow stronger physically, I am getting my self confidence back. Best of all, I got to see my daughter graduate from high school. Hopefully, my port issues have been resolved and I can continue on with this life changing journey.