Enlightened

I've always been big ever since I can remember. As a teen, I was overweight and it was always a challenge feeling like I fit in. Now as an adult and as a mother I realized that I had to be a good example to my kids so that they didn't have the same struggles as I did. I also needed to lose weight to do all the things I wanted to do - like run around and not feel like I was going to pass out.

But the real push? There was the embarassment from people who would excitedly ask when I was due (to have a baby). It happened almost every time I went out in public from well meaning strangers. Then, I went to the dentist's office and the receptionist asked me when I was due really loudly (in front of a crowded waiting area). When I told her there was no baby, she said "Wow, you sure have gained a lot of weight!" I was mortified. I decided that even though the receptionist was rude, she was right and it wasn't fair to me to be living like this. I called the clinic in Toronto that day to find out what I needed to do to get the surgery done.

Financing was tricky. I ended up borrowing from family and I'm sure grateful!

The result? I've lost about 43 lbs so far and am down to a normal BMI (about 24.3) and I feel so much better. I'm not currently on antidepressants. I breathe better at night. I feel better about myself. I'll actually look at myself in the mirror. I don't feel embarassed to be out in public.

Losing weight with the lap band has been a cascade health effect for the family. My husband is down 25 lbs (not banded and he didn't even try :)), my daughter is trimmer, we eat much healthier and we are trying to get in more physical activity into our daily lives.