Amanda B.

Hello all, I got my band in May and then moved from Philadelphia to Queens Village. I had a great support group in Philly that met regularly and had lots of participation. Does anyone know of a good support group to attend in person here? Thanks, Amanda

Oh my god! You all have done so very well. I feel like a complete slacker next to you. I was banded May 19. I started at 220 and am now down to 207. My weight actually went up a couple of pounds but I lost them. This has been so hard for me. I am a workout fiend and was before I even thought of having surgery. I swim at least 3-4 times a week, hit the treadmill or walk in my neighborhood most other days. I am just struggling with feeling restriction. I had my first fill in June and was ravenous the week after. I had another fill a couple of weeks ago. But I still cannot get the hang of solid food. Seems like no matter what I eat, I can't drop weight consistently. I know it doesn't help that I had goiters on my thyroid and had to have it removed last year, but this is ridiculous. I am beginning to seriously regret the surgery and all the pain and discomfort I went through. Amanda

Hello there, I am about 5'4" and weight 207 pounds, down from 220. I am now a 1x. I wear a 40DD, so you might need a 2x in the top. But sounds like you need a 16w in pants. I know it's hard to focus on you with a little one, but I think you deserve to go out and have a little fun shopping. You should take this chance to Celebrate your weight loss and all you have accomplished. Lane Bryant, Ashley Stewart, Lord and Taylor and Macy's all have nice things that will flatter your figure. So go shop! You'll feel better and look better and get a chance to revel in the the success that your hard work has won. Cheers, Amanda

Mary, I know it's hard, but hang in there. Once you have surgery, you won't be hungry for a while. Just try to clear your head and relax for now. I was pretty hungry right before surgery but the swelling and tenderness of your abdomen totally takes your appetite away. Just follow the advice of your doctor and his staff when it comes to liquids. In a couple of months, you will have bacon again, but be forewarned that it may not taste the same. I have found that some foods I used to love don't love me anymore like pizza and surprisingly, cheese and eggs. You will need to experiment and see how bacon works for you, but you're a long way off from that. Just remember to listen to your body and be kind to yourself. Best, Amanda

Hello there. My name is Amanda and I am new to the group. I am here trying to regain my balance. I got a band in late May and did really well at first, but I moved from Philadelphia to New York, started a new job and moved back into my home in June. I was fine when I was not working but work seems to have sent my diet into a tizzy. The good thing is that I love to exercise. But it's the food I find such a huge challenge. I had my first fill in June and it was minimal. Since then, I have been constantly hungry and can't seem to put down my fork. Anyone have good suggestions on how to get back on track? I see my doctor in Philly soon for a fill but I am dreading that visit. I feel so disappointed in myself. This was a big decision and recovery was no piece of cake. I feel like I am blowing the journey just as it as truly just begin.

Thank you for being brave enough to share your feelings, even if you thought some folks might be upset. Oh my gosh, you hit my feelings right on the head. I am about seven weeks out of surgery and I have been struggling too. Going to get my second fill today, thank God. This morning, I realized I had gained several pounds. But I am trying to be patient and work through it. I too did this because I didn't want to do the gastric bypass. We both are at the beginning of this journey and it will take a while to get our heads and bodies in sync.

Larry and Susie, Thanks for the support. I do normally carry my lunch. I do okay during the day. I guess when I am at home the stress catches up with me. I will try not to be so hard on myself. And I will track more religiously.