ooooh honey, I feel your frustration. I can't imagine how frustrating it must feel to not be able to get a job either. I was a single mom for five years many moons ago and money was TIGHT. It killed me to be able to provide everything my kids needed or wanted. One income is tough!!! God bless ya. As for dieting... good greif... like you need more stress?! BUT, I'm sure some weight loss would make you feel a ton better. I know how giddy I feel when the scale moves downward. I say before GBP or LapBand, give a solid diet a good strong effort. Start with a reasonable calorie level and throw in some walking every day (even 20 mintues will feel awesome). We're hear to cheer you on. We've all been there.. are there.. or still moving away from there. :)