I had all those same feelings before my surgery. I was banded on Nov. 27th. I had a talk with myself the night before surgery. I told myself it was do or die time. I had cheated myself for 20 years and I needed to stop cheating myself. I didnt like the thought of a liquid diet for 2 weeks, and then a pureed diet for two weeks, but I couldn't stand looking in the mirror anymore. My starting weight was 297.5 on Nov. 13th 2012. Today April 6th 2013 I am 232. I will say that I have not cheated on the recommended diet, and I work out 7 days a week. I started walking one week after surgery. I told myself that I was walking away from being fat. Two months after my surgery I got a trainer and I see her three times a week. It has not been easy . However, it gets easier all the time. As I see myself shrinking and get compliments it feel soooooo good!!! Each day I start out with the serenity prayer. After all i am a food addict. God grant me the serenity to accept the things I can not change. The courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. When I make it through another day of not cheating. I thank god for being right beside me. I believe my band has come to save my life. I have a long way to go. I will get there if i dont cheat myself. I will get there if I work hard. I know there is not a magic pill anymore. For the first time in my life I feel happy to wake up and for the strength to be able to work out. You can do this . It will not be easy !! it will however be worth the hard work.