I am the happiest I've ever been in my life! I was banded on May 15th, 2007, just shy of a month ago. I think many people have this surgery without full preparation. I was fortunate enough to have been through a liquid diet 7 weeks prior to surgery, which really prepared me. The main thing is, you have to be ready mentally for this process. If you haven't worked on the things that made you eat in the first place and haven't made up your mind to change your life completely, than of course you're going to be miserable with the band. You'd be miserable dieting too. I've found lots of people who still, even after having surgery "bend" the rules and wonder why it's not working. It's a huge commitment! It's a tool and for me the tool is no matter how much I want to cheat, I can't because my new belly will not allow me to. This is not a miracle surgery and it's not for the weak, as you see that people have gained their weight back. You still have to change your eating habits and exercise. My doctor told me himself there is always a way to cheat the system. You could suck down milkshakes all day, loaded with calories and gain the weight, etc. I've suffered with food addiction since the age of 7 and it all just finally clicked for me. Each individual is different. There are people with good stories and bad stories. My advice to you is do your homework and ask yourself if you are really ready to feel deserving of a happy, healthier you and to finally put yourself first. Are you ready to put everything you have into this? Most importantly, don't focus on the bad things people say. There is a whole lot of good! If you're scared, you may be searching for the bad to psych yourself out of this. Every single person I've talked to and networked with is happy as can be. Surround yourself with these positive people. They'll be your best inspiration, other than yourself! All my best to you! I know you can do it! Be strong, be beautiful, be you! And if you need someone to talk to, my doors always open.
Regards,
Amy
