I told them that I've done my research, I've weighed the pros and cons, and after failing multiple weight loss attempts on my own, this is something I needed to do in order to gain control of my life and get to a healthy weight. I also stressed that gastric bypass (and the band) is a tool, and that if I don't do my part, I can still fail with it. More than anything, to borrow a quote from an episode of Big Medicine, it provides me with the physical restraint I need to regain mental control.

Don't let anyone discourage you, even friends and family members. In the end, it is *your* life, and *your* body!