ROBIN K.
I have been heavy since kindergarten. I have tried numerous diets and have discovered that diets just do not work. They are a temporary fix. After the diet is over the weight comes back... and it brings friends!
The turning point in my life is when I was no longer able to work. I had worked since I was 14 and at the age of 38 I was done. I have degenerative disk disease in my lower sine and arthritis in both of my hip joints. Walking became very difficult for me. I became immobile and a couch potato. The weight just poured on, at first a few pounds here and there and eventually it was a steady stream of weight gain. Then came the sleep apnea. For the first time in my life I had become dependent on someone. I hate it! Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love my husband! I have always been an independent person I hated asking for help, now it seems like that is all I have done.
My physician suggested the I look into bariatric surgery. WHAT?? ME?? NOOOOO!! I'm not that fat! 
Then I looked in the mirror. Who is that person staring back at me? OMG! THAT'S ME!
From that day I haven't looked back. I did my research and discovered that the Lap band was the way to go for me. It is adjustable and reversible should, heaven forbid, something go wrong. Or I get pregnant again! 
On June 18, 2010 I was banded. That day became the first day of the rest of my new life. I now ask for support not help which is a lot easier for me to do.
