I just got the surgery Dec 11th. Since the pre-op diet two weeks prior to surgery until today I have lost about 25 lbs. My mother is skeptical but I needed to do this for me,you spend so much time taking care of your kids and your husband...now you need to take time for you...*sorry off subject--We moved back to Florida from Newberg OR in 2004. I miss Mt Hood and Seaside. My friend her encouraged me as she ad the band last year and was succesful. Anything I can do to help or encourage you I will. Make sure the first few days after surgery you take the pain medication and get lots and lots of sleep. Have someone else there to watch your three year old. I felt I had to entertain people here after surgery so I din't sleep right away. The more I slept and rested the better I felt...Of course only for a few days. Once you find a surgeon join the support group, you will be in the the same group of people during your preop-surgery-and postop and everyone is willing to share tips and support-