Hello,
I understand your feelings about the surgery, however do not base your decision on someone else's experience, you must do this first of all for you!! The most important thing is checking out the surgeon you choose and God will do the rest. I was banded 1 May 2010, I have lost 30lbs and feeling great. Don't mean to sound so harsh, I guess it's 25 years of being a Soldier. Good Luck in your decision.