Hi!!! I'm Jill, I am 21 and was banded on August the 12th of 09. :thumbup: I have lost 73 pounds and am still loosing. The band was the best and one of the hardest decisions I have ever made. I think the hardest part was the two week fast prior to the operation. If you have any questions... please feel free to contact me. The operation was covered 100% and was a two year process for me to get it approved one long journey.