26 lbs is AMAZING.  To be honest, I am 10 months out from surgery and down 57 lbs (as of this morning - it flluctuates but I am also addicted to the scale) and I have a hard time seeing it myself.  I now notice how much fat is still left rather than how much I have lost.  Make sure that you take pictures - it was pictures that finally knocked sense into me tonight when I lined them up side by side and looked at them.  I couldn't even believe that was me!  Our brains take awhile to catch up but I bet everyone else around you is noticing & noticing big time!!

Karen, I was so sorry to read that.  You will be in my thoughts.  Have they given you the options yet or are they pulling it out and then you are evaluating later?  Have you thought about doing the sleeve?

Dear Karen, Well sorry to hear about your setback. I know you will have  good support from your families and friends. Hang in there before you know it you will have a new band.

Well the time has come to let my band go.  It will be removed on Tuesday....exactly 17 months afer having it put in.  I am shocked, scared and VERY angry at the moment....Thank you to everyone who has sent me some fantastic emails and wishes me well.....I will keep in touch...I am hoping after healing I will be able to get another band.... Karen P.S.  for those that dont know....my band has eroded and is basically on the inside of my stomach....and I had no clue this had happened until I lost all restriction...

Hi Barb, you have done wonderful with your weight loss. Now that the swelling is gone around your band your appetite is coming back. It will help to get a fill. Keep up the good work. Mona