Dave0453

I started having trouble with my weight about 20 years ago.  I was in the Air Force so my weight was monitored but it became extremely difficult to maintain.  I had a desk job and. over time, became more and more sedentary.  I retired from the Air Force in '91 at 180 lbs.  Things went down hill from there.  I continued in desk jobs and, without forced physical activity like in the military, I started gaining and gaining.  As a smoker, my weight gain was very slow.  However, I quit smoking for good two years ago and the weight really packed on.  At 260, I broke my leg which left me in the recliner for 4 months.  Here I am at 289.  I have trouble tying my shoes, walking from parking lot to stores, even getting dress poses some problems.  I went to the Doctor and saw my blood pressure steadily rising.  That was the last straw.  I requested lap band surgery and was approved.  I have completed all my lab tests and will have my psych eval today (required by my insurance).  As if my being nuts is a big surprise!  Once the results are sent to my Dr., I should be scheduled for surgery.
There's no doubt my lifestyle and attitude have to change for good.  I am an emotional eater.  Happy - let's eat!  Sad - where's the chips and dip?  Bored - a sandwich will make me feel better.  It seems I am always hungry.  My wife and I travel in our RV a lot but I am having difficulty really enjoying the sights because of my weight.  I am limited to what I can do.  We went to ta ball game yesterday and I had to park far away from the stadium.  By the time I reached the gate, my legs felt like lead and my back was tightening up.  I'm sick of this and it's my own fault.  That's what disgusts me the most...I completely lost control of myself.
I sincerely hope that the lap band, by virtue of limiting my intake, will help the pounds drop off so I can walk easier and, hopefully, start a hiking routine.  I want to climb 14,000 foot mountains!!