I am just starting the journey! I have been approved by my insurance Company for the "I can change Program" which requires that I have to lose 10% of my weight (45 lbs) before Ican have the surgery. The program is 6-12 months and the earliest you can have the surgery is 6 months during which time you receive monthly call from a counselor. I weigh 345 lbs. and I am 5'5" tall. I can use any information, support, etc. flowerlover