luvmy2dogs

I started my weight loss journey at 254 lbs.  I had severe asthma, sleep apnea, and high cholesterol.  I made the decision to have the band after much soul searching, and reading about that different weight loss options.  My father had lapband surgery a couple years before, and had lost an amazing amount of weight.  I chose the band because it was minimally invasive and very safe.  I had my surgery on 9/11/08, and never looked back.  I have to say, that I have struggled with my fills.  I've never kept my restriction for very long.  I would get a fill, and within a few weeks, usually had lost some of the restriction.  This has NOT been an easy road.  I have had to completely change my eating habits, and include regular exercise just about every day.  I have had to work at this every step of the way.  People say this is an easy way out.  They obviously do not have the band.  Patients say it's a tool to give you the help you need, but you don't realize that until you are actually on the "bandwagon"  There are so many ways you could fool the band.  If you don't change your habits, you will not be successful.I'm about a year and a half out with my band.  It has been the greatest decision of my life.  I have lost 92 lbs.  I am off ALL of my asthma meds, and my cholesterol is down from 238 to 150.  A very normal level.  I have more energy than I could have imagined.  I run about 20 miles per week.  My exercise regimen is still pretty strict.  This is always how it has been with me since this journey.  I just accept that I have bad genes, and this is how it will have to be forever.  I'm scared to death to every put this weight back on.  This is probably a good thing.  Scared is good sometimes.  My life has been changed forever, and I just feel amazing.  I do struggle with keeping it off, and I think that is normal for anyone.  It is a lifestyle change.  If you're not willing to make this change, you WILL gain this weight back.  I have seen it happen.  You can not be willing to let it.  I work every day at making these changes and I struggle often, but always jump right back on that wagon.  It is about discipline, and motivation, and the desire to stay healthy.Thank you Dr. T for helping me change my life.  You're the best!