Monica

Have anyone in the Tampa area had the lapband. I was approved for roux-en-y through WISH (they closed)& my insurance and have applied for the band and will (hopefully) have surgery in late May or June. I read alot of positive and negative about both, I am at 239 @ 5'4", sleep apnea and high blood pressure. I am going to go through Dr. Murr

Hi Monica I don't have the lap-band but I didn't know if you knew there was also a lap-band forum here on ObesityHelp.com that might be of interest to you. The link is: http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/surgtype-forums/LapBand/posts.html I have two very dear friends who both chose the lap-band and are very happy with their decisions and losing weight! One of my friends had 100+ pounds to lose and is in her early 50's, the other friend is in her 40's and had less than 100 pounds to lose (about 80 pounds I think). Neither of them live in Florida but I wanted to share their stories because the Lap-Band is a wonderful tool for those who work it. Good luck in your surgical decision and keep us posted on your journey! ~ Trish -70 pounds

Congratulations!! Monica I'd tell ya whether you have the lapband or Rny surgery - both require that we make life altering changes. Some would argue that one if better than the other for whatever reason...we have different tastes and it's a personal choice as to what will work for you - so long as YOU (and me) work with whatever tool we choose. We're making a choice to have surgery because we've tried everything else, right? Then again there are others who have been able to lose the weight w/o surgery...to each his own..for example my sister was able to lose about 120? or so lbs - but I couldn't lose 1-3 lbs without alot of effort so I finally chose the surgery. I congratulate you in taking that first step.

Monica, I am scheduled for the lap band on Monday (having it done in Ft. Lauderdale). We are about the same starting point. I did thorough research and feel confident that the band is the right choice for me. I suggest that you go the the postings about your doctor (Dr.Murr) and read what his patients have to say. E mail them if you can to get a better perspective. Ask alot of questions; people seem delighted to help out. I chose my doctor because of the pre and post education is outstanding. I feel completely prepared and know what to expect. But I'm sure some questions will arise along the way. I can always come to this forum for advise and also contact my physician for help/problems. Best of luck to you on making the right decision for you. Whichever procedure you choose, know that it will be a positive step to a healthier you. Hugs, Karen