Update
I had my surgery back on October 18, 2004 and to date I have lost 147 lbs and have about 99 lbs more to lose to get to my ultimate goal of 150 lbs. I am doing so much more today, than I was able to do last year or the many years of being trapped in a body with so much fat that I couldn't move or walk. I am now walking and using my cane less than before. Unless my knees give me trouble, then I use my cane for support. I am 53 years old and feel about 20 years younger than that. I got to see my son for 3 1/2 weeks and meet my first grandchild in April. I hadn't sent any pictures of myself since my surgery to him and he was quite surprised at how great I looked then. And I hadn't even lost 100 lbs yet. My son and his family motivated me to become more active in my walking and exercising. I still need to get to the gym, but I am walking more and better than I have in a long time. I can't remember when I was able to walk like I do now.
I recommend this surgery to anyone and all that are overweight and not able to do things for themselves anymore.