Donna, I, too, am one of Dr. Rodriguez's patients. I had surgery 4 1/2 months ago and have lost 78 lbs. and nearly 65"! More importantly, I am no longer diabetic, have normal cholesterol, no more asthma, no more joint pain and am only taking 1/3 of the b/p medication that I used to take. This surgery is the best present I ever gave myself. I wish you well on your journey. BLS