I was also a self pay. I just had the band on the 19th of September. After being denied a year ago from my insurance company, I decided this is crazy...I spend this much on a new car, but not on me? I too have 3 kids to put through college, but with a supportive husband we decided that by me doing this I am extending my life so I can be around to see my kids go to college. I am 32 and have a 13,12, and 10 year old. I am a registered nurse and work 3 days a week so I missed only two days of work to have the surgery. I also am in school for an advanced degree and my instructor and my classmates didn't even know I had it done! (My co-workers did however because I am a nurse in the very operating room where I had my surgery) So not only is the pressure to succeed due to financial sacrifices-I eat lunch everyday with my surgeon. :biggrin1: