Elle23

Just took off my first banding date to replace with the final (fingers crossed) date (02/22). Here's our current list (please correct and re-paste as you go if you add or change anything). Congrats to all of our February 2011 bandsters -- all 33 of us! 1/28/11-Smokey2112 2/02/11-ManningFan 2/02/11-TylerAshton567 2/02/11-Shawnypoo 2/04/11-blondeej (Trisha) 2/05/11-Korilynn 2/07/11-ruthiesmg. 2/07/11-KOKIE 2/07/11-soon2besexynslim 2/07/11-bamakaren 2/09/11-Mrs.Mustang 2/09/11-Bunnykins 2/09/11-Loozer2B 2/10/11-JMH80 (Jackie) 2/10/11-Trns4md 2/10/11-TexasNurseMom 2/10/11-bigtom1948 2/11/11-Justplaintired 2/11/11-KeeKee99 2/11/11-Care2teach 2/14/11-Alikitty 2/14/11-sdjenk 2/16/11-TexasMama 2/16/11-ThisMumRocks 2/16/11-aocon0630 2/17/11-Newbranden in Tampa, Florida by Dr. Aguila 2/17/11-wantinghealth 2/18/11-daisy_0729 2/21/11-hoagy 2/22/11-Elle23 2/23/11-Angel2001 2/25/11-Sophinator 2/28/11-Post Modern Retro Pretty

JustPlainTired ~ Hope you are healing quickly and comfortably! How are you feeling in general? I've been rescheduled for 02/22, so I'll get to stay a Feb '11 bandster. I'll need to remember to pack my iPod and headphones -- great tip! Well, rest up and hope to hear more from you soon! (((HUGS)))

Tom ~ So glad to hear that you are doing well! Did your doctor only give you Tylenol 3? My doctor has already said that he will prescribe Loritab for 2-3 days post-op (I've been rescheduled for 02/22). Are you on a thin liquid diet for the first week and then thicker liquids the next? When will you see your doctor for the post-op exam? I think I will go about a week after the surgery for him to check the incisions and talk to me about how I'm doing. Well, I won't ply you with more questions. Take care of yourself and I hope you heal up fast!

Hope you are doing well. You are in our thoughts for a speedy recovery. (((Hugs))).

I had to amend this -- my date has been moved to later in the month, due to a clerical mess up at my doctor's office (long story). I'm just glad I get to stay with all of you February '11 bandsters -- you've been a wonderful group to start the banded life with! 1/28/11-Smokey2112 2/02/11-ManningFan 2/02/11-TylerAshton567 2/02/11-Shawnypoo 2/04/11-blondeej (Trisha) 2/05/11-Korilynn 2/07/11-ruthiesmg. 2/07/11-KOKIE 2/07/11-soon2besexynslim 2/09/11-Mrs.Mustang 2/09/11-Bunnykins 2/09/11-Loozer2B 2/10/11-JMH80 (Jackie) 2/10/11-Elle23 2/10/11-Trns4md 2/10/11-TexasNurseMom 2/10/11-bigtom1948 2/11/11-Justplaintired 2/11/11-KeeKee99 2/11/11-Care2teach 2/14/11-Alikitty 2/14/11-sdjenk 2/16/11-TexasMama 2/16/11-ThisMumRocks 2/16/11-aocon0630 2/17/11-Newbranden in Tampa, Florida by Dr. Aguila 2/17/11-wantinghealth 2/18/11-daisy_0729 2/21/11-hoagy 2/22/11-Elle23 2/23/11-Angel2001 2/25/11-Sophinator 2/28/11-Post Modern Retro Pretty

Polly ~ Good luck on your pre-op! You are getting so close to your band date! I'm completely positive that you are going to do awesome with it! Tom ~ I'll be thinking about you today. I'm so excited for you! Defnitely keep us posted on how you are doing, okay?

I just got a call from one of my doctor's nurses, and she said that my band date may have to be rescheduled from 02/10 to a later date due to rolling blackouts (maybe the end of the month?!?!). All of the surgeries that they had on schedule for today were cancelled, and they anticipate the same for tomorrow (however, I'll probably still have my pre-op consultation with my doctor...which is good -- I just have to call them tomorrow morning to make sure they are open). What would bump me later is all of the procedures that are cancelled (they have schedule priority first). I've never ever encountered rolling blackouts in my area (we are currently experiencing a hard freeze and some Water lines at the local power plants have broken). The hospitals, fire, and police departments are fine -- but smaller centers like the surgicenter where I'm supposed to be banded have been affected. I guess I'm just disappointed...sorry to vent. It's just hard to work towards something, have a date on the calendar, and then possibly have it taken away for a later date. Boo. I think the pre-op diet has made me a little cranky. LoL.

Okay, I hate to keep this saga going, but now it seems that the insurance approval department at my doctor's office has messed up and submitted me under his partner (for which I was accepted). I just spent an hour on the phone with them and since I was approved with a different bariatric surgeon and not my own -- they cancelled it (the approval for his partner to perform the banding) and resubmitted me under my regular doctor...however, it could take a couple of weeks to approve...AGAIN (and I'm not sure what my insurance is going to make of this...I have BCBS). At this rate, I may not be with you February bandsters if my band date gets moved to early March -- but I'll still stay. I'm just totally irritated that -- 1.) They messed up...I've never even met the other surgeon in the practice. 2.) My doctor only does surgeries on Thursdays and is booked up solid. 3.) I've been on the pre-op diet since January 26th and they want me to continue indefinitely...becaused they messed up. I feel really prepared and mentally ready, but things just keep happening. I started researching the band over a year ago and visited the clinic for the first time in October 2010. Sorry to complain so much. All I can say is BOO...major BOO. :sorry: Texas Mama ~ I'm so happy for you! Is your sis making it on time? You are going to do so awesome! I can't wait to hear how it all goes for you. Carollee ~ Hello! Thank you for sharing about the hiatal hernia repair -- how long did the pain last and was it primarily in your shoulder? I haven't really asked about overnight stays -- that's a good thing to mention, especially since I now have more time. How long does your doctor wait for you to have a fill? And, how was the post-op eating? Did you do 1 week Clear liquids, 1 week thicker liquids, and then onto mushies? Again, thank you for your input!

Congrats to you! I'm glad that recovery has been fairly easy so far. How are you feeling today so far? If you don't mind me asking -- what types of liquids are you having? My doctor says that I will be on a clear liquid diet for a week (50/50 light juice and water combos, chicken broth, sugar free jello and popsicles, etc.) and then move onto thicker liquids for week 2 (cream of chicken soup, protein shakes, etc.), and then week 3 is mushies. I'm getting banded this coming Thursday. Btw, thank you for sharing your experience!

I was just thinking the same thing?! I had written a couple over the weekend and they were gone today. Weird! How are you feeling Smokey? Are you on heartier liquids now?

Hi everybody! As it turns out, I will have my band as scheduled on 02/10. I spoke with my doctor, and he was happy with my pre-op diet results, so he is definitely getting me in that day. On the flipside -- at the pre-op consult with him, I got to meet a few other future bandsters (all of us are getting banded in the next week) and it was pretty eye opening. The other bandsters ranged from people that have read a lot of information, talked to friends/coworkers/family who are banded, and have started to really mentally prepare for change -- to -- people who didn't even know what a BMI is (???...that really confused me). The woman I was sitting next to is paying out of pocket and she told me that she is doing this on a whim because she hates dieting...it kind of blew my mind. Plus, she admitted to hardly following the pre-op diet. I spoke up about maybe getting together a local support group and none of them seemed too interested. Anyway, I am excited and ramped up about my band date! I'm starting to gather post-op supplies (chicken and veggie broth, unflavored whey Protein to mix into things, sugar-free Jello, etc.). I am a little nervous, because the doctor is also going to replair my hiatal hernia and the nurse said it will probably cause me the most discomfort. But, I guess my new life begins 02/10! I hope you are all doing well! Texas Mama ~ Boo! About having to change your date. But it does give more time to prepare. (((HUGS))) to you!

Hi! I'm scheduled to be banded by Dr. Riley on 02/10/11 and I had heard about the support group meetings, but was wanting further information. Like the rest of you, the drive is the killer part -- I live in Clear Lake. I wonder if we can maybe come up with a Houston Band group that meets more conveniently? Sorry to hijack the post -- I just love the idea of a support group. I don't know anyone locally that has been banded -- gastric bypass, yes -- lap band, no. Have a great day!

KisKis ~ That's so awesome that you have someone close to you that can help you on the band journey! I know a few people who have had gastric bypass, but no banders -- except for my friends online. I'm sure you and your BFF will do extremely well -- we'll all be sharing tips, tricks, and recipes with each other -- it really is a great community. Best of luck to you both! Tom ~ I am sorry I haven't posted my questions for the pre-op. I'm still working on the list (my pre-op with my doctor is tomorrow). Some of my main points are: 1. How long will I have to go without: shower/bath, lifting (i.e., children, pets, groceries), sex, and exercise? 2. How long do you recommend that I take off from work? And, is it best to take leave during the liquid phase of the post-op? 3. What pain management protocols do you practice? 4. When will I have my first fill, and do you do them under flouroscopy? Do you do all of your fills, or do you have a PA who also does them? 5. How often will I actually see you after I am banded? Hope you all are doing well! Today is day 8 of my pre-op diet. On the scale this morning I was down another pound. I'm curious to see what I am on the doctor's scale -- for the life of me, I can't specifically remember what I weighed there the last time I went. I'm hoping that I am losing a sufficient amount. Question for all of you -- are any of you going to have a sensible "last meal"? Or, did you do it before the pre-op diet? My DH has been asking if I want to do that prior to surgery, but I'd really like to stay with my plan. Plus, I haven't really craved anything the last few days and my head hunger has been relatively under control. I'm still a little fatigued, but it seems to be improving as well. Fingers crossed. Have a wonderful day everybody!

Good luck everybody! When you are able, post and let us know how you are doing!

FeelinGroovy (Ally) ~ Your scale routine is mine to a "T"! LoL. My DH thinks it's crazy, but then again he doesn't really watch his weight too closely -- just stays active. I like the idea of telling the work peeps that I'm going on vacation...I haven't thought of a plausible excuse yet and that just might do it. I feel a bit guilty for cheating today too...I got stuck in a long meeting and they catered sandwiches, so I had a slice of turkey and half a piece of cheese. I think it'll still be okay and I did add it to my food journal...just hoping that the doctor isn't looking too closely at that. I'll have to check out the website that you mentioned -- do they have Vitamins that they recommend? I haven't picked up my chewable ones yet and I'm trying to figure out what other supplements I might need -- Vitamin C, Calcium, etc. Do any of you have any recommendations on chewable vitamins and supplements?? Many thanks if you do. Hey TexasMama ~ My DH graduated from high school not so far away from you (he's originally from San Diego, but moved to the Woodlands when he was in high school -- Navy brat). I do like the Clear Lake area -- it's pretty peaceful and we love the Water too! I actually know someone from Angleton (a friend's husband) and that isn't that far away. Up in San Antonio, you guys do have some nice lakes and rivers nearby -- I love Lake Travis (my BIL lives in Austin). On fatigue, thank you for the pointers. I've never done Atkins (tried South Beach) and I probably will have to pick up some Ketostix. I haven't noticed the ketosis breath, but it might explain the fatigue...I think part of it is the 800 calories a day, work, and my kids. I have a 4 year old and 17 month old twins -- all boys. They definitely keep me running.

TexasMama ~ I love San Antonio -- I used to go there quite a bit. The people are so nice. What part of Houston did you live in? I'm in Clear Lake, and I've lived here for about 10 years. Tom ~ I'll definitely post my list of questions for the pre-op consult. I'm going to work on it this evening, so I'll post it later tonight or tomorrow. What kinds of things do you think we'll have during our early phases -- clear liquid, liquid, and mushies? I know you have some experience with this. And, thanks for all of the recipe ideas -- it's a huge help! Okay, question for all of you pre-op dieters -- do you feel low on energy? :sleep2: I have been tired...really tired, and pushing myself to work out has been difficult. So far I'm keeping to my 3 day a week Zumba, but I was hoping to bump up exercise to 5x's a week and that isn't happening right now.

KisKis ~ That's exactly how I feel! I just want to work on my new banded life with myself and get used to it -- I know that I'll lose, maybe gain, plateau, etc. -- but I don't want a lot of comments about it, because as with all weight loss regimens it will be hard. Like you, I'll probably let more people know after the fact. Btw, your BFF did awesome! Is she maintaining now? I can't wait to get there with all of you!! Tom ~ You are doing awesome! I tried to "pretend" that my salad the other night was a big pile of nachos...it didn't work out so well for me. LoL. Scary enough, I'm finding that I look forward to the morning shake...either that, or I'm hallucinating. I haven't readily noticed ketosis, but something must be going on, because I've lost some. Just keeping my fingers crossed that I'll lose the 7 I need prior to surgery. Btw, I've got a monster in my tummy that complains a lot too! LoL . Blondeej ~ I'm sure you'll do just fine! This weekend was tough for me...during the workweek I can set a routine and stick to it, but being at home on the weekend with the family makes it really tough! TexasMama ~ I love your name! I am a Texas mom too (Houston-area). I've heard that some surgeons don't require a pre-op -- but that would be a good question for your doctor's office, since it does have relevance to the procedure. For me, it isn't an insurance requirement -- it's a requirement from my surgeon to make my liver more easy to deal with during the surgery. Well, today is day 6 of my pre-op...according to the scale at home I'm down 6 (of course that's my "in the buff" weight). LoL. My pre-op consult with my doctor is Thursday. Do any of you have a list of questions that you are going to ask? I'm starting to compile one. You all are doing great! Have a wonderful day and chat with you later!

Loved your post! Thank you for letting us know how you are doing. I'm so glad that everything went well! When do you go home? How is the clear liquid diet compared to the pre-op?

I am so glad to know that I'm not the only scale junkie! I know you are really only supposed to weigh once a week at the same time in the same clothing, but I just can't help myself. :scales: :scalesno: :woot: You guys are doing great with your pre-op diets! I'm on day 3, and down 3.5 lbs. I *think* it's getting a little more bearable (just barely)...I feel fuller off of the shakes (even when mixed with water). Do you all work? I do, and I haven't told any of my coworkers that I am going to be banded...today I had someone ask if I was on a "liquid diet" and she proceeded to lecture me on how that doesn't work. Ugh...it just reaffirmed why I haven't told them -- the few women I work with are perpetual dieters and critique everyone and the men don't really notice anything and definitely don't ask the women about dieting. LoL.

Wishing you the best and a speedy recovery! Girl, I know you are going to ROCK this!! :drum:

I'm nervous too, and it got worse as soon as I got my approval/scheduling phone call. Like the rest of you, I have worked hard to get to this point and I'm doing it to improve my quality of life (for myself, my kids, and my husband). I don't really have apprehensions about the procedure itself...moreso the after effects, and I feel myself (this is weird) -- mourning food (recipes I love, restaurants, etc.). I think justplaintired said it best -- like you are breaking up with an old friend...there's some sadness, and then some relief from trying to move away from a now "toxic" relationship. I'm trying to use the pre-op diet to help me detox myself from head hunger.

Lunita ~ Your post is almost exactly my story. I am in my late 30s and was just diagnosed with diabetes (for the last few years, I have been pre-diabetic and insulin resistant -- that was discovered with my first pregnancy and gestational diabetes). On top of that, I also have high blood pressure (not extremely high, but above normal) and cholesterol issues (stemming from the diabetes). I am going to be banded on 02/10 for myself and my kids. As much as I try to keep up with my kids, the excess weight keeps me from enjoying myself -- and the onset of the health problems has made me realize that a total life change is the best thing for me. I don't want to have to take prescription medications to help with issues that are within my realm of control to change (by losing weight)...it's selfish not only to me, but for my kids. I want to be there to participate in their growing up, and live to be old enough for grandchildren. (((HUGS))) There are quite a few of us working for life improvement...it's hard and it will be hard, but I think the payout is worth every bit of it.

I hear you...today is my Day 1 also (2 shakes and one lean protein/veggie meal). I usually just have oatmeal and occaisionally some coffee for breakfast, so I didn't think having a shake replacing that would be a massive change...I was wrong and my stomach is seriously growling. Are you on a strictly liquid diet? What liquids are you having? I'm drinking Myoplex Lite and Lean Body for Her shakes (breakfast and lunch). Staying focused and keeping my eyes on the prize -- hoping these pre-op weeks will go by quickly.

Today is my first day of the pre-op diet (band date 02/11). My doctor wants me to drink a Protein shake for Breakfast, Protein Shake for lunch, and then eat 6-8 oz. of lean protein with 1 cup of vegetables for dinner. I need to lose 7-10 lbs. in the next two weeks on it or they may reschedule my surgery. My nutritionist recommended Myoplex Lite and Lean Body for Meal Replacement shakes. This morning I had a vanilla Lean Body for Her shake with 1/4 cup blueberries -- it really wasn't that bad. I got a good tip from a fitness friend to freeze skim milk into ice cubes and use that in shakes -- it definitely helped. For lunch, I am going to try a chocolate Myoplex Lite shake with skim milk -- we'll see how that goes, since I'm at work and don't have my blender.

02/10/2011 is my band date.