Sula

Hi, Had my fill on Wednesday and can definately feel restriction. I've also attended a support group last thursday which was motivating. There were some old time banders there, some newbies, like myself and one who was getting hers today. For those of you who live in a more settled area...the only place to get fills in Montana is here in Great Falls, so people have to travel to get it done..as well as the surgery. It would be a great business opportunity for someone to get the training to do fills! On a more fun note, I'm down 26 pounds and have been doing a bit of exercise. I think we might see spring in the days ahead and I'm just feeling great!! One thing that I'm working on keeping on top of is it is better for me to use smaller, salad plates and to keep in mind "normal" portions. I do tend to make good food choices but we all have our moments. Hope you all have a wonderful day and week. Shawn

Hi gang, I have managed to walk a couple of times over the weekend and just did a 2 1/2 mile walk so I am making a start. I can't get motivated to go to the basement for the elipitical but if the weather turns, I'm going down!! I do feel so much better when I do something! Shawn

Hi Sharon, I thought the support group was great. I wasn't going to go because I wanted to keep this band deal quiet in town here, but then I decided that the support would be better for me than the secrecy. Funny, the next day I saw Karen (the nurse at the meeting) out to lunch, at a place I've never gone to before. Small world. I probably wouldn't have come back into town on Friday so I would have missed seeing you again. I live about 30 miles out and my DH was gone so I had to feed all the animals. I'm sure there will be another time. I was surprised to hear about all the different types of food that you couldn't eat now. And Kelly, sounds like he pretty much does liquid. I'm not sure I want to get that restricted. I generally make pretty good food choices...and this helps a great deal with portion control. But who knows what comes with time. I lived and worked in Kalispell for many years, then moved, and moved back. Left there the last time in 1997. But my folks are there and I go over several times a year. Take care and enjoy the weekend. Shawn

Hi all, I had my first fill yesterday, 1 cc for a total of 3cc's in my VG band. No problem with the process and did feel some restriction. The thing that I found odd was, that about two weeks ago, I was not feeling much for restriction and creeping up on portion size. Then on Sunday or so, I was feeling restriction again. Not premenstral that I know of!! I just find it interesting that from day to day, it seems to change. I agree that for the most part, we should be eating more solid proteins and lay off the mushies. I do have a protein drink for breakfast, which holds me till lunch time. Sunshine, you validated a very important thing for all of us to keep in mind. This is work and it will take time. We should be patient but persistent. We probably need the time to relearn new habits and deal with our food issues. AND get more habituated to working out! Okay, I'm going for a walk..nuff said. Shawn

I had my first fill yesterday, 1cc, so I'm at 3cc's. The fill was no big deal, took a few minutes, drank some water and walked out to finish my day at work. Jane, how about consulting with your Dr. to see if he/she will advocate for you to get a fill sooner? Maybe write or call BS on your behalf. Or, perhaps paying for this first one, out of pocket? Shawn

Count me in as well. I'm going to commit to four times per week of some type of exersize...eliptical, walking, yoga, or aerobics. I need to get my rear in gear. I wish it would clear up outside because I'd love to do some real walking, but...snow and ICE! Shawn

Howdy Montanans, I guess Terri and Sharon have made a plan to meet after the support group. I suppose while at the group, we can decide where to go from there. Shawn

Hi Brenda, Does insurance pay for the cosmetic surgery? I just ready your ticker and want to congratulate you on your hard work and successes. That is really something. What type of band did you get and how many fills? What sort of things worked for you? Shawn

Hi That Girl, How about an appetite suppresant? I would ask the Dr. first but maybe that will help. I know Audrey uses QuickSlim 30 and says it works well. I've noticed others use other forms of suppesants. Shawn

Looks like we are getting to be a "group" Yippee!! Sophie, I have six horses, four quarter horses and two walkers...they are actually my hubby's. I have a coming two year old and one on the way in May. I love having the babies, but mine are up for sale..the babies that is. Went for a ride this morning and worked my pup. Sharron, If you're interested, as well as anyone else, we can meet at my office if you want. It is private. Or we can meet at some other location...just thought I'd offer. Shawn

Hi Toni, I see you are a horse lover...me too. Just got in from a wintery ride...but ahhh, wonderful. Congrats on your journey in weighloss. That is really something, losing 115. How long did it take you and who did you do your after care with? Did you come over here to Great Falls? I'm sure all of us on here would benefit from your experience. I'm only about 6 weeks out so it is all about learning. I'm down 24 pounds tho and go in for my first fill this wednesday. Shawn

Sharon, I think you should consult with the dr. I'm going in for mine on Wednesday and I just take what he gives me. You must have one of the smaller bands? I started off with 2cc's. I have noon on Thursday off if that works for either you, Sharon or Terri. My #781-3875 or office is 761-1700. Other than that, I'm booked till 4:30 as far as I know for now. Actually, I may have the 2pm hour open as well and if so, I could get together then. Just let me know. I'm downtown so its easy to get where ever the "meet" point it. Shawn

Welcome Sophie, I have a friend who talked to Dr. Rohrer's nurse about two weeks ago. She was told that he had done 75 surgeries. I do think he has done a bunch of the bypass surgeries, as I know a few that had that. I went to Mexico as a self pay and so far I feel like I'm doing really well. I had it done on Jan. 16th and have been basically full speed ahead a week later. I've lost 23.5 (the .5 counts!) since then. I also have an elipital (nordic track from sears) that broke down 3 weeks after getting it. It didn't take long for the guy to come fix it tho, but they are independent contractors and I guess have to make it cost effective to travel to Glasgow. Mine is fixed, just me is broken! I have to work on my motivation! I'm all ready to walk outside right now but the wind has been horrendous! I did the mall on Monday. Well, I gotta git to work. Shawn

Well, I made my first appointment for a fill...next wednesday. They wanted to make sure I knew it was 200 and I'd need to be able to pay at the time. I think I'll call my insurance co and just see if there is a way they will pay for the fill. Who knows, I might be pleasantly surprised (shocked). There is an artical about the Bariatic Center for Excellence in the paper today...only one in the area. And with the "for excellence" designation, that qualifies them to be able to bill Medicare. You all take care Shawn

Hey all, I just was reading the February 2006 anniversary posting. At first I saw some that didn't lose a great deal but then you read further and see some made significant progress toward and meeting their personal WL goals. It was very inspirational. I hope that in a year, we can come together and celebrate our successes as well. And one thought...it seemed that many who had success maintained the support of their groups including online. So, I'm here for the long run, how about you guys? Shawn

Hi all, I am wondering if any going in for fills could ask their doctors (or their billing person) what the CPT code is for the fills. I want to try to get my fills paid by insurance and want to do a little research via my policy before I get to that point. Thanks, Sula

Tonya, Marvelous! You should be so proud of yourself. What a journey and you can see how hard you worked before you even had the band! You are an inspiration even without the visual reinforcement for us! Shawn

Hi Sharon, I'm game to meet. Question for you...what type of exercise routine have you done since your band? How often? I need a kick in the rear to get going (altho this has been a hectic week). I have an elipital in the basement and as soon as it stops freezing, snowing and blowing, I'll be out walking...at least that is my intentions. Follow-thru is another thing! Shawn

Lemme see...one month, I feel terrific. I feel bad for saying that for those still experiencing pain! Sorry and I hope it will get better for you. I'm struggling with my decision to get a fill in a couple of weeks. I have lost 23 pounds since banding so I feel that it a good amount for where I'm at and it appears that I am losing about 1-2 pounds per week. I'd like to lose quicker but I know that isn't in my best interest. I am thinking since I have the VG band, I will go ahead with the fill, tho. My Dr. started me out with 2cc's. Did anyone else start out with some saline in their band from the onset? I haven't got the exersize routine down yet. My car was in the shop and so I carpooled to work with my DH, during my normal workout time. But I'm going to get after it. I know it needs to be a part of my life and for the most part, I do enjoy it. I can hardly wait to be able to get outside and walk. I just got an XM Roady radio and I see they have a headset for them so you can walk and listen to tunes! I also have to say, that after the first of the year, I am off sugar, bread, sodas, alcohol and eating well, so I feel more energy and just basically feel good physically. I have not cheated once on my eating regime and only have some moderate hunger pains when I go a bit too long between meals. What a great month for me as far am mental, emotional and physical well-being. I'm excited about this process. All the best to the rest of you. Shawn

Hey all, Hope that you're doing well today! I just had a story to share. I think that many of us have a different viewpoint on how we looked. I never say myself as heavy as I actually am. Then when I'd see a picture I'd be so shocked. I guess the mind plays some tricks. So, anyway, my DH was asking if I felt like I was losing weight and I said yes, I feel my clothes getting looser. A little bit later I asked him, "did he see me losing weight?" He was quiet for a moment (he is a teaser) and then said, "yes, in your back and shoulders." I remember having this thought, my back and shouders are fat? When did that happen? I only thought it was my butt and gut! Not really but have you ever really thought about where you carry your weight? For some reason, this image just makes me smirk. Maybe him too. Hope this brings a chuckle to you. Shawn

Hi Sharon, I have a 10 cc band. I think the VG is the newest, improved band, but not sure if that means it is the newest 10 cc band or newest band in general. And from what I understand, the size of the band depends on the size of your organs or something like that. I would be delighted to get together with you when you come over. Not to sure about the support group as I am really want to keep this quiet from most others for now. A few people here know (about 5) and I guess I just want people to just notice I've been working hard and losing weight. And I am working hard. I exercise and eat properly. I just have some help with portion control! My fatal flaw I think. Back to the band issue, I don't think I'm going to need a fill at 6 weeks. I feel like I have good restriction and am losing weight...today is my fourth week anniversary and I'm losing a couple pounds per week. So I have a dilemma about whether I should schedule a fill and potentially cancel it or just wait. How long does it take to get in to see him? I'm also a bit paranoid about calling him in case he says no I won't see you, for no particular reason! Well, I'd better get back to work. Have a great day. Shawn

I'm so sorry that this altercation happened with you. I know families can be difficult at times and I'm not sure of what the other issues are, but keep your self focused. I think sometimes family and friends don't want us to change cuz we were sooo much funner when we weren't working on ourselves. And focus on the fact that your father supported you in this and wants you to be around for a good long time! Shawn

Hi Sharon, I have the VG 10 cc Inamed band. The dr put 2 cc's in when he put it in me. So I am thinking that is a "bit" of restriction, but I haven't read anywhere that that has been done with others on this site. Did you feel like you had to get a fill? I'll be four weeks on Tuesday nite and I wonder if in two more weeks I'll need a fill or if I will still be losing? How do you feel after a fill? Terri got her's and said she didn't notice a change. Shawn

Hi Brenda, I find it interesting that insurance kicked up a fuss. I don't think they can do that. Sounds like a scam again. Insurance companies rule the world it appears. But, I started this venture on my own dime and can finish it. Makes me feel bad for others who can't afford to do what may improve their lives. I hadn't heard about Hennesey as far as anything going awry. I have a friend that is pretty in the know ( and considering the band) so I'll ask her if she heard anything. I would bet it more that he was going to be closer to his son/family in WA. Where did he work out of over here? Shawn

Hi Bandsters, I've been talking on the Montana boards and someone said that she has to come over to my city to get her fills because nobody else in the state (not that there are that many) will do fills on Mexico patients. Anybody have any thoughts on that or anything to compare? The doctor I will be going to has apparently done 75 lapband surgeries as opposed to my Dr. in Mexico who has done thousands. I wonder about the ethics of a doctor refusing to provide care? Just in a general sense, since I'm going to be taken care of. Okay, nuff of that....I've committed myself to my exercise program. I hit the elipital for 15 minutes (could only do 10 last week) and then did a bunch of strength training via pushups, situps, etc. I hurt too much last week to do situps after the first time, but today was good. I'm healing well so I'm thinking I can do some easier stuff. Just beginning the process. I'm amazed and in awe of the person who is hitting 5 miles a day. Great going! That is my goal as wel, soon as the weather is not set on SNOW! I like to walk. Shawn