Desert Rat

I have struggled with my weight since puberty.  I starved myself in high school and college to keep my weight down.  Starvation was very painful and eventually I could no longer keep it up.  I have lost weight only to gain it all back and more several times.  The most I've weighed is 310 lbs and the most I've lost through diet is 70 lbs. I now have diabetes type II, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.  I've come to realize that I can't loose all the weight I need and want and maintain that loss without some permanent extra help.  I've been thinking about Lap-band for several years now and finally decided this is what I need to do in order to live a healthier life.  I'm tired of being fatigued all the time, out of breath from walking a few steps, not fitting into clothes, having to shop for clothes at the "fat" stores, not feeling comfortable in public, not fitting in an airline seat, so many things that only a morbidly obese person can understand.  I can't wait to have my surgery and am so looking forward to the benefits even though I am also a little nervous about how my life is going to change forever.  I am lucky that I have the support of my husband, family and friends.  This journey will not be easy, but I'm thankful to have my support system, a support group at the hospital, and websites like this where I can find understanding and compassion.