[hoppy]

I spent my whole life fighting this battle. Have lost 100 lbs at a whack 3 times and eventually gained it back. Last year after acknowledging the total physical decline at age 57 (Diabetes, Sleep Apnea, enlarged heart w/diminished capacity, Hiatal Hernia, high blood pressure and cholesterol, lots of huffing and puffing).
I finally after 2years of research and procrastination submitted to a Ruen Y Gastric bypass surgery on Sept. 15 2003. I have lost 112 lbs (287.5 then, 177 now). I have completely eliminated every weight related medical issue 100% and returned to agressive skiing again this past winter for the 1st time in 4 years.
Diabetes, gone, Apnea gone, B/P 105/55, heart normal size and function, Hiatal hernia, gone, $10,000 worth of clothes, gone.
Waist size down from 54 to 34,

BUT and I do mean BUT, this has been so much more unbeliebable difficult that I ever anticipated and continues to be so. I HATE FOOD! My "new" stomach's capacity is 20 -25 cc and if you try to fill it or god forbid over fill it, you will pay dearly. This has not changed more than a little.

I do not reccommend this procedure. I am only sharing my experience. Don't do it for cosmetic reasons and even if medically indicated, think long and hard before letting anyone tell you that it is anythiing less than the toughest thing you will do short of submitting to a beheading by some Iraqui extreamest.

Anyone that wants to contact me privately is welcome to do so, but other than this, I prefer to not make a public show of my experience.