Kelly, aged 42, BMI 38

In December 2005 I finally hit rock bottom, having had a weight problem for many years. I'd been thinking about having something done for ages. We have a place in Spain, and I was sick and tired of being too big for the seats on the plane. Also, I just not getting enough out of our holiday. We'd worked really hard to get our holiday home, and my weight was just spoiling it for me and my husband.

As if by fate I saw an advert in the local paper for the National Gastric Balloon Centre.

I made a phone call and was given an appointment to see Dr Phill, who explained the procedure to me and went through all the options available. He told me that my BMI was 38 and that that was potentially dangerous for me. I took a while to decide, this was a big decision, and finally had my balloon inserted in March 06.

The procedure was very quick, and the hospital staff made me feel at ease. After having a few days feeling nauseous everything settled down and I was amazed how little I ate, my interest in food changed along with my attitude towards food. I had regular weigh-ins and support along the way. The team at the centre were great and any problems I only had to call.

I have lost 4 stone, and my BMI is now 31. I've gained back my confidence and self respect, I now feel valued as a person and can honestly say this is the best decision I ever made!

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