Hi, my name is Keith. I am 57 years of age. At my heaviest I weighed 24½ stone. I walked with 2 sticks because I needed a hip replacement, which was refused because of my weight.

I tried for 3 years to get gastric banding on the NHS; however, because I was over 45 and not diabetic, I was refused. At this point I had a very poor quality of life - I could hardly walk, I had a heart attack and was using CPAP machine every night, because I had developed Sleep Apnoea.

I was referred to Andrew Johnson at the Avon Obesity Service for gastric banding by my GP. After being given all the pro's and con's, I decided to proceed.

My banding took place in March 2005. I found it hard at first with what I could eat - some foods made me sick. I found that vegetables needed to be cooked softer and meat had to be cut in small pieces, and the amount was reduced to a small plate. Fresh bread is a no-no, because it goes into a ball of dough as you try to swallow it, and it just comes back up.

By January 2006 I had lost 8 stone and my hip replacement took place. I set myself goals to reach and allowed myself little treats as I went down from one stone to the next. I still need my CPAP machine at the moment, but no longer need sticks. Looking back, it has been worth it.

By November 2006 I had lost 11 stone, 18 inches off my waistline, and have a much better quality of life. Thanks to the AOS team, and BUPA for their help, advice and friendly aftercare.