After much research and years of trying to get my insurance to cover my surgery, I sucked it up and decided to get a loan to pay for my surgery. I was banded on Sept. 30, 2008 by Dr. Dean McDaniel of Victoria, Texas. He's a cool doctor. I have lost 36 lbs. and need to start exercising to help myself along. I would like to lose a total of 100 lbs. so I have 96 lbs. to go. I enjoy reading everyone's suggestions and tips. Hope to contribute some helpful tips in the future. :biggrin: