I attended my 2nd LB support group last night. Even though I'm not being banded until January, they are so inclusive and helpful.

It is so wonderful to sit in a room with people that are going through, have gone through or will go through what I'm going through now. They also do things together outside of group, so it brings in a whole new social element.

One of the veterns (she was banded in Dec 2008, met her goal of 84 lbs lost in July and has been maintaining since) gave me her phone number and email address just in case I have any questions that come up. I mean really...how sweet is that!?! She looks FABULOUS, by the way.

I also met some girls my age and they seem fun to get to know. One of the girls talked about how she lost 150 pounds but then she had a band issue and had to empty it. She then went on a bender and gained 15 pounds before she was able to get back on track. 15 pounds?? I don't want to belittle what I'm sure was a difficult time for her, but I can gain 15 pounds over the holidays! It was another example to me how this can be such an effective tool, not only for weight LOSS, but especially for maintaining.

No one, not even the girl with trouble, regretted or didn't like their band. There was a newbie, banded in late October, that was having a little trouble adjusting, but still willing to work at it.

It is interesting how passionately people feel about the time prior to surgery (diet vs. pig out.) People certainly can argue adamantly one way or the other!!

Bottom line is that I love my support group and plan to be a part of it for a long time!!

Way cool - I'm glad you found a group you like and I think it would be very worthwhile to have people going through (or at least have been through) what you are going through - and that you can call!

That is wonderful to hear.

I am so happy to hear that! I am so wanting to have a LB support group in my area and can't seem to find one! I am at the point of calling my social worker at the bariatric office and asking if we can start one! I too am getting banded in January and starting to get the buterflies and wanting to know everything that I can possibly find out! Please keep me posted!!!

I am scheduled in January too! Hope all goes well for you!