As Featured on NBC-TV's "The Doctors"

Morbid obesity is a serious disease, currently affecting more than six million Americans. It's associated with a number of life-threatening conditions, such as Type-2 diabetes, cancer, and hypertension, all of which can be improved with sufficient weight loss.

Sometimes, when other methods have failed, surgery is the best option to use in taking control of your weight -- and your life. Now an internationally-established procedure that eliminates many of the risks of other obesity surgeries is available in the United States. The LAP-BAND System is the only minimally invasive, adjustable and reversible FDA-approved surgical obesity treatment. It is an important tool which, properly used, can help improve your health, reduce your risk of developing associated severe medical conditions, and enhance the overall quality of your life.

Victoria Ashton knows. This is the story of her experience with Lap-Band surgery, and beyond. Her message is: Don't be afraid to ask your doctor if lap- band surgery could be right for you. Take the time to research all there is to know. Make sure you ask all the questions are on your mind. Most importantly, if you are not comfortable in any medical situation, then change it. It is very important to have the right medical team beside you. They become like family; they guide you and work by your side for success. To date Victoria has lost seventy-two pounds, and more importantly, maintained that loss for over four years. Her life has changed dramatically.

Beautifully written, with a wry humor that isn't above at times poking fun at herself, Victoria's story is an inspiration to readers, as well as a detailed guide to the experience and what you can and cannot expect.

With a foreword by Dr. Mark Fontana, MD, FACS.