New here...

Hello everyone, I am new to this site and wanted to say hello. At this time I am in the research stage of wls. I am leaning towards the lapband for a number of reasons, but am still open to other possibilities. Of course, being new to all of this, I am at a loss as to where to even begin. My doctor thinks I just need to exercise more to lose weight, and to be quite honest, I probably should, but I am just too darn tired, exhausted really to do anymore than what I do now. Well I guess this is all for now, I'll stop in often to see how you all are doing. Laura in Lincoln

Hi Laura, Welcome to the group. Congratulations on your decision to have surgery. I know how bad I felt before I had surgery. Let us know what questions you have about lap banding. I had my banding jan 2002. I have lost 110 and have kept it off for over 2 years. I have no regrets about the lap band. Have you got your referral to see a bariatric surgeon? You need to be at least 85-100 pounds overweight, have health problems related to being obese such as sleep apnea, diabetes, reflux and other conditions. You also have to have tried to lose weight on your own. Good luck in your journey. Mona

Hi Laura, I'm also in Lincoln. You'll find this website has a lot of helpful information - many people to share their experiences with you. I'm still going through all the process myself, but would be happy to help you in any way I can! Janet muddling through the approval process

Thank you ladies for the encouragement and warm welcome. Yes, I believe that at 250-260 lbs. that I am probably 100 or more lbs. overweight, I've tried for 10 years to lose the weight with little or no success and right now have Type II diabetes and hypothyroidism, does that count? I appreciate your thoughtfulness and support and I'm sure that I will have a ton of questions for both of you. At this time I have not gotten a referral to a wls doctor/surgeon, but am working on it. Thanks again, Laura in Lincoln

Welcome to the board Laura! I was banded in December 2005. Thsi is the greatest thing I have ever done for myself! I no longer take Diabetes medicine! That's the best part! I've also lost close to 50 pounds! Still have a ways to go though. I'm hoping to lose another 50-60 more! Feel free to ask as many questions as you have! I know had alot! I didn't know anyone personally with the LB until I went to the support group meeting. there I met someone who has become a very good friend. It's nice to share the experience together. So Good Luck! Jess 253/205/140

Hi Laura, you started at the right place...Obesity Help is the best web siteI had the band 4 years ago in June and would do it every year is I had too And be sure to get into a support group they can help you deside which one you want Check out North Platte's site. www.npwlssg.org. I'm pretty proud of it. Contact me anytime, Beth