CathieW
I was heavy as a child and do not remember a time where it was not a main focal point of my life. If memory serves, I weighed approximately 200lbs when graduating from High School (1982). In my early twenties I tried all the standard programs: Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig and Nutrisystem etc. Acheived various levels of success with losses anywhere from 20lbs to 60lbs. Always, the weight returned and never forgot to bring new friends. My heaviest recorded weight was 336 lbs in (1999).
At the end of 2003, I began to take my health seriously and dramatically changed my approach to diet/exercise/lifestyle. Losing 60lbs and maintaining that weight since. However, in 2006 my right knee finally gave out. Local orthopedists noted that years of impact, combined with the intense activity of the recent 3-4 years, caused major deterioration. After surgery (late 2007) noting that sections of me knee are bone on bone. It is now impossible to continue any effective exercise routine such as Curves or even walking. At times, water aerobics can be somewhat painful. Goal is to delay knee replacement for 5-10 years. Of course the significant weight loss from lap band surgery will help dramatically.
After much consideration I decided to have the lap band procedure in the hopes of losing 125lbs. Each pound lost reduces the impact on your knees by 3lbs.
Obesity has been my lifelong struggle. I easily recognize myself in many of your own stories. I am eternally grateful to all of you who share here on the forums. Please accept my thanks