Hi, went to my Dr's to ask for band, said it could take up to two years before its done... Told my husband what I'd asked my Dr for and he said 'better get on that computer and sort a loan out then and go private! So that's what I've done. He's very supportive and says that if I don't do something the chances are he'll be a widow in ten years. So a week later, after asking my Dr, I've researched and now booked in to hospital in Belgium for a sleeve on 18th March! Decided the sleeve because if for any reason the band had to come out or didn't work, I'd still be paying the 5,300 for next five years! So, for all those on here that's had it done, well done can't wait, and for those contemplating it, nothings going to change for the better unless you take action. I was 11st.7 10 yrs ago and now 18.9, and have put on about a stone a year for past 7 years so it's the only solution. I'm scared as it's in another country but it's not a backward country so fingers crossed.