Newcomer

December 23, 2005

Hi! I'm new to the Lap-Band forum. I have been considering the band for some time now and have read many posts on Smartbandsters and Extraordinary Bandsters. My BMI is extremely high partially due to the fact that I'm only 5' tall. I had my surgery booked in Toronto for Oct. 17th but got sick and cancelled. Now I am less sure about doing it and have not yet re-booked. I'm very insecure about being able to cope with it all. The thought of life-saving surgery is exciting. I'm already 55 so I have to do it soon and I'm feeling the pressure. I have all the co-mobidities of obesity and yet the fear is stronger than the desire at this point. I wish there was a support group in my area. The only one is on the internet like this one. I meet up with other bandsters about once every 2 months but that's all that's available. I'm afraid I will still try to overeat and ruin my health and the point of the surgery. How will I cope with the loss of being able to eat? I know I will have to stay very busy. Does it get easier as you start losing weight? Looking forward to hearing from some of you.Thanks! Jennie

Iluvharleys · December 23, 2005

Welcome to LBT! There are lots of threads here for you to read, lots of information to learn just for taking the time. It's natural to be going through all the thoughts you are going through, but it is important to take your time and decide if it is for you or not. Surgery is not for everyone, so please study everything involved, and take your time to decide.

My band helps me not want to eat all the time, however you have to work with the band too, it doesn't just stop you from eating. You will still have times that you want ice cream, chips etc. The band is a tool, you use it to help you but it won't do all the work for you. I hope that helps you a little bit. I would suggest you start reading everything you can on the subject, it is a big decision to make and you should learn all you can before making that decision.

paula · December 23, 2005

Hi Jennie - and WELCOME to LBT.

Betty said everything I wouldve said - but better.

You are like the rest of us - few or no support groups in our living area, so we resort to the internet for one. This is a great place to be. Glad you found us.

And again, welcome!