Hello alll, I was just banded yesterday Aug. 16th 07. very scary move but glad I have done it. I was so afraid I may die on the table and what my kids will think of me should I leave them in such a horrible way.But thanks God, with thier support as well as my husband by myside, I will live to tell my experience. nice to know there is such a great forum for discussion. well my weight is 260lbs starting and hope to reach my goal of 150lbs.I am trying to follow the band protocol as possible and do hope that I don't experience any adverse effects.I just have slight pain around the port site and I have slight gas which I am told is normal. Any advice will be appreciated for a new bandster. This is a new journey, and for me the beginning of a permanent fight to loose ths weight finally. I hope the band will be a tool to keep me in control. I am glad to be part of the team.:clap2: