Allison-
I have had a lot of problems with my band since I got it in March of 07. I am in Atlanta and having a tough time deciding to take it out or keep it. I'm like you, I just want to feel good again and not have keep going through all the poking and proding. I've had so many tests/procedures and now have a food phobia. I'm scared to eat anything that might get stuck....which is a lot of healthy foods. I just don't know what to do. I was self pay like you and hate to throw my money away, but I want to feel good again. Like you, my doctor is really good, but I'm in the 1% that this just hasn't worked for. I have lost 30lbs, but since having revision surgery in October, haven't lost anymore. My thoughts are that if I don't lose some more weight soon, then why do have the band?