ChelseaRae2011

Hi everyone! I was banded on July 28, 2011 by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez in Monterrey, MX. I new I was taking a huge gamble going to Mexico, but I didn't have health insurance and could never afford to do the surgery for myself....so when my mom suggested we go to Mexico together and she will pay... I was all for it. Needless to say, I don't have a nutritionist or a lot of support here... I just got health insurance and so I think they will be setting me up with their nutritionist now. Anyway - I have huge issues with a ton of things that I have been experiencing and just need some advice, maybe some encouragement, etc. #1 - Drinking while eating - I can't stop! I have tried, but it's impossible... well that might be a little dramatic, but I just don't have the self control. I have always been a HUGE drinker during meals. #2 - I am at the point where there is not much restriction anymore... I can eat just about anything and I am worried that because my appetite is basically back to normal I am stretching my pouch or something. I don't want to destroy my surgery... but have about 3 weeks till I get a fill. #3 - I crave a Diet Pepsi... will I NEVER be able to drink it again? How about Beer.... ? I have never drank Beer before, but lately I have been craving one so bad! Or what about carbonated drinks that are necessarily Pop? Like an italian soda or carbonated Water? I just feel so limited now... and the weightloss is as dramatic as I thought it was going to be... so I am just majorly discouraged. I know this is why they make you jump through so many hoops in the states... so that you are well informed, unfortunately I am not. Thanks for your help in advance.

I will be getting banded on July 28th, two days after my 27th birthday. I am getting banded in Monterrey, MX (please, I do not need any cautions, etc.) by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez. He has banded many people I know and is an excellent doctor. My aftercare in the US is arranged also. I am very nervous and excited. I currently weigh 256 and I am 5'3". I hope to eventually be around 135. I have had two children, so things "hang" more than they used too. My biggest concern is losing weight and have so much loose skin that I can't stand to look at myself. Myand I are going together, she was getting surgery (selfpaid) in the US, but after talking with friends about Dr. Rodriguez she has decided to pay for my surgery as well.

Thank you so much.