My friend had bariatric surgery and has lost 100 pounds in less than a year. She is off all meds...no insulin and other type II diabetic medications anymore. She feels amazing. I am nervous about such a procedure, but I have a BMI over 40. I may not be diabetic, but osteo arthritis has developed in my left ankle and right ankle is starting to burn. Hips and back too...my hiatal hernia worries me. I have terrible heartburn even when I know I am eating cleanly and simply. Is bariatric surgery a new way to truly help with the obesity epidemic? Thanks.