Kristina S.

I gained 100 lbs. in one year due to hypothyroidism.  That got under control but the weight stayed.  No doctor seemed interested in helping me and, even though they knew my condition, still assessed me as an overeater.  That was never the case.  Thw only way weight loss ever was done was through fad diets with extreme circumstances that did not last.In 2005, I was dignosed as diabetic.  My condition was never extreme but I had to take lots ofo medications and always monitoring my blood glucose levels.  It's a real life changer to have this condition.My sister had the lapband done in November 2007.  She encouraged me to have it done as well but I was skeptical.  She was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer Four months later.  Through her fight to live, she couldn't cope with the lapband procedures and had the fills removed.  In October 2008, I finally decided to have the procedure but wouldn't get the surgery until Feb.  My sister fell ill in January 2009 and passed away before I could have my surgery.Even though I was greiving, I had the surgery two weeks after my sister passed.  I owed it to her and to myself to be healthy.  I missed being able to share my experience and successes with her as I had counted on her support.  I came to the LapBandTalk.com to find that support and Ii have.Six months since my first fill, I've lost 41 lbs. and am about halfway to my goal.  I feel great.  I am no longer diabetic or have cholesterol issues and am not on any medications for those conditions.  That is the greatest accomplishment of all.My sister is watching me and I know she is proud of where I am on thisi road.  I have a new mantra for my life since losing her...Sing like no one is listening, love like you've neer been hurt, dancce like no one is watching, and live like it's heaven on earth".  With this weight loss, I can really do that and live the life my sister never got to.  I love you and miss you Kendra!