kkccmom

Melissa....girly, YOU ROCK! We are all so proud of you...even tho these first hours after your fill seem to be a challenge. YOU CAN MAKE IT...and oh my gosh..THE BAHAMAS! How awesome is that?? TALK ABOUT MOTIVATION to do this....wow!! Just think, you could potentially have more than 20 lbs off by then! That would be almost 40...and won't you feel like a million bucks?? I got a fill on Tuesday, but honestly, wonder if he even got the Fluid in??? I am STARVING and nothing is seeming to fill me up. I had a shake for b'fast (25g protein) (rather sugary, I'm afraid, but so tasty!)... I used fruit "nectar" which is pretty high in sugars...then I ate a Nature Valley Protein Bar mid-morning (10g protein), had some Water. Then for lunch I ate most of a can of Bean w/ Bacon Soup. I simply quit before I'd eaten it all, but I still felt/feel hungry!! I am resisting going down there and eating everything in the pantry...can't do it. Want this to work SO BAD, ya know?? So, keep on keepin' on...it'll work. We just gotta do our part to un-do what we did!! --Kim

Oh, Linda...bless your heart...how frustrating and confusing, to be sure!! Oh wow... Here's where I am on this experience: I was in on Tuesday for a fill. I am certain my appt was missed in their books - I was called last week to see if I could move my 8:45am to 2pm. Sure. I show up before 2 and the receptionist was clearly scattered about me being there. She asked my name a couple times (new girl - not the usual gal who knows me)...but she assured me it was all fine. Forty minutes later, I went to the desk and said, "Do I need to reschedule?" No, someone would be right now. The nurse came and got me, asked me a check-list of questions, then the surgeon came in. He was CLEARLY in a hurry, but asked me the routine things and proceeded to agree that I needed to get some Fluid back in there, since he'd removed 2cc a few weeks ago. So, he gave me the numbing shot, then DID NOT WAIT for it to take effect, but began prodding around, stuck the needle in and sort of dug around, and I could tell he was injecting the fluid. And in under 3 minutes (i'm guessing) he was out the door. Yesterday and today, I feel NO different than I did before I went. I wonder if he didn't get the saline into the band at all??? I, too, was sore and slightly bruised...but it sounds like NOTHING like you've experienced. I'm guessing that because I carry lots of my weight right in the middle, that finding the head of the port IS challenging, but it sure seems it should not be impossible... Oh, Linda, I hope they get things sorted out for you, dear. Hopefully the 'attaching' part of the procedure was done correctly during the surgery and that the thing isn't just rattling around in there!! We'll pray its not so -- just that it has shifted slightly and that the fluoroscope settles it once and for all. Hang in there...stay focused on good things (not food!!) and keep looking up! You are in my prayers! --Kim

AWESOME!! This will be such a great kick-start for you...woo-hoo!!

Leslie Sansone is the QUEEN of "Walk At Home"...she has a boat-load of DVDs, available EVERYWHERE. You can get them reasonably priced from Amazon, if you want to have them mailed (since you live outside town). You cannot go wrong. She's very motivating, and most of her walking 'crew' are all testimonials of her program...some of the gals on my DVDs have lost more than 100 lbs with Leslie!! She does have a meal plan/program, but you can just do her walking DVDs. No special equipment or clothing -- just a little space (she'll tell you to move the coffee table!), and you can choose how long/far to go with her. Most of the DVDs are set up in 1, 2, 3 or more miles, with a break in between. A couple years ago, I was doing a 4 mile...straight!! Its a workout. I did get bored with it, but she has enough variety that ANYONE can go a long time and not run out of routines. She's perky and fun and lives her walk! Literally. Dawn had so many great points...walking, Water and portions. I need to take her advice, esp on the portion-control. That's an issue for me, and I need to get with it. I know I'll see the scale start moving if I'd just do that!! Hang in there!

See.....YOU ARE MAKING PROGRESS!! Woo-hoo!! Gosh, Linda, those are some awesome victiories. Yes, we'll have a few set-back. I mean, good grief, we didn't get here since last week and we ain't gonna get "there" by next week! A lifetime of bad habits and crummy attitudes take a while to adjust...so we gotta give ourselves TIME. I realize the urgency you feel about this upcoming trip. That's a lot of pressure...so lets just take it one day at a time. Control what YOU can control = food intake. Do what you can to MOVE each day. Do you know Leslie Sansone? You can pop in one of her DVDs and do a "walk" right in your livingroom! Be proud of what you are seeing. That is truly something to Celebrate - and just remind yourself of how much better its going to get!!

About a week post-op, I got so sick I could not eat/drink a thing w/o feeling like I was going to throw it all up. I could not stomach the Protein shakes, so I know I was not getting enough nutrition in any form!! It was a vicious cycle for about a week! I had about 2cc of Fluid removed on about Day 12...and he told me I could start eating SOFT foods. A by-pass-patient friend recommended Taco Bell refried Beans....= HEAVEN!! lol BUT, this meant I had virtually NO restriction...so for the past 3 weeks I've been free-lancing!! And like Joann, BOY DID I EAT. Not much during the day (stayed busy) but at supper, when I am fixing for my family - wow. I got some fluid put back in yesterday - not as much as was taken out, but we discussed taking this slow to avoid any complications. Today, I'm feeling hungry, but will drink my Water until its time for lunch. Supper I CHOOSE to do what is right. Its unlikely you have harmed yourself...BUT, like everyone said, TODAY/TOMORROW is a new day. Face your "crime" - and clearly you have done the time (berating and hating yourself = been there/done that!!)...so move forward. Make a list of your WHYs....why you want/need to lose weight. Here are few of mine - and maybe yours are the same!? - 1. Get off the floor w/o help (or a wench) 2. No shame at the beach - both in my swimsuit AND getting up from sitting 3. Crossing my legs - without havng to hook a foot on something to keep it there! 4. Riding some of the rides at an amusement park (I have not fit into a seat in YEARS - shoulder bar crushes the girls and kills my back - NOT WORTH THE EMBARRASSMENT) 5. Holding my head high at a school function w/ my children 6. Shopping for clothes that do not start w/ a "2" and end with a "W" 7. Making love to my husband w/ the lights ON. (and add shopping at Victoria's and actually BUYING something!) 8. Shopping at CHICOs. 9. Seeing my feet when I look down. 10. Not getting stares in a restaurant, knowing I will no longer be judged because I am EATING. (these are not necessarily in order of my priorities - just what comes to mind!) That's the short version...but making a list of my WHYs has been really REALLY helpful. I have not lost a ton of weight (16 to date), but I am noticing some NSVs - rings and watch are looser, pants are looser in the fanny and around the waist (tho not falling off yet by any means)...those COUNT. I will not give up...and neither should you!! We are all walking the same pathway here...some are a little farther down the road, but there is nothing new under the sun for those of us who've let our stomachs be our god. ITS A NEW DAY. Now, hop up, look yourself in the mirror and hold your head up and tell yourself "I am worth it"...then go write down your WHYs...and you're off!! We're rooting for you!! Kim in IN

Linda...I feel yer pain!! I've lost only 16 - and that's including the 5 I lost on the pre-op liquid diet!! I have been feeling hungry all day long, then when supper comes, I'm ravenous and want to eat everything in sight. My DR removed about 2cc of Fluid about 3 weeks ago, when I was so so sick. So, I really have had NO restriction, either. And that's been very noticeable. I do fine during the day because I'm working in another part of my home, away from my kitchen. AND my hubby works from home, too, and I'd hate myself if he knew I was "cheating" - esp after what this is going to cost us. (the hosp bill was just under $30,000!!! Still don't know what our portion is after ins. pays theirs - but YIKES)...so considering the price ($$ and emotional), I'm really not willing to be dumb and sabotage this for myself. BUT, that's not to say I don't have my moments - like today ... bought a bag of Baked Lay's...and ate a bunch on the drive home. I did get a fill yesterday...but today I'm not noticing any significant change. Still feeling hungry and those potato chips went down just fine. BUT I AM DONE. NOW, you've GOT to look for those NSVs (non-scale victories!)...I KNOW there are at least a couple, right??? For me, its my rings fitting loose enough to roll around my finger. My watch fitting loosely around my wrist. My pants getting a little baggy in the butt. A friend noticing my face looks slimmer (tho I really don't see that). ARE YOU WALKING?? Lucy asked the question...so, are you?? I have been, and I know that's helping w/ the NSVs...even tho the scale is not really moving, moving my butt IS causing other good things to happen. Do I like walking? Not really. I'd rather sit on the couch...but I know this is in MY best interest, and I'm finally realizing that "I" have to do this for "me"... tho, honestly, I'm doing it for my family, too. Don't give up on yourself or your dream to get that 40+ lbs off by November. KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE PRIZE - of how great you'll feel when you can trek through Disney without feeling like you're gonna die...of being able to say NO to the crappy food that's in front of your face all day long...of being able to ride a ride you've always wanted to...of not feeling embarrassed or ashamed of yourself (okay, maybe that's just me!?)... Remember, THIS IS SIMPLY A TOOL...you are still the one who controls what goes down the hatch. Choices Choices Choices. And yes, its hard and yes it makes me mad, too, some days...but you are worth it!! Now, get out and take a walk sometime today. This does not have to be a 5K or a 1/2 marathon...Just make it 15 mins. That's 7.5 mins one way and back. Do that for the rest of this week, then next week, make it 10mins one way then back - for the whole week. For me, its daunting to think I "have" to go 30 mins. The exercise girl at my clinic says you can do three 10-min bursts, throughout the day. ITS BETTER THAN NOTHING, and I can truly promise that you'll start seeing the changes. It'll tighten your butt (which makes your pants looser!! - then you'll have to buy a smaller size because who wants a baggy butt??), and your legs (then you can wear a shorter skirt/dress!)...oh gosh, there are so many good things about it!! So, FOCUS on your "whys" - so I can get off the floor w/o help (or a wench), so I can get up off the beach w/o people rolling their eyes, so I can cross my legs w/o having to hook a foot around something to keep it there!, so I can get my rings re-sized - smaller! -, so I can sleep on my side w/o a limb falling asleep, so I can make love to my husband with the lights on!, so I can SEE my feet when I look down, so I can move my bra hooks over one row, so I can begin to see the definition of my jaw line - and not just a jowl, so I can hold my head up higher when I'm at a school function w/ my children....those are just a few of mine. Maybe yours are the same - and maybe you have a few more or something different. FOCUS ON YOUR WHYs. (I'm preaching to myself here, too!!)...WRITE THEM DOWN! We can do this, ladies. We've been given such a wonderful tool...we'd be crazy not to do EVERYTHING in "OUR" power to maximize its benefits and helps. Until the pain of remaining the same becomes greater than the pain of change, you will remain the same. THIS IS NOTHING compared to the pain we've all felt when we've been at our heaviest....yes??? Yes. I have hated myself for long enough. That's my sermon for the day...and maybe it was just what "I" needed to hear from myself. So, if I've stepped on some toes, I'm sorry. BUT, if it resonates w/ you - any of you - then hold your head up and move forward. You cannot change yesterday, but you can move forward today and affect tomorrow!! Blessings! Kim So make today a NEW DAY. A NEW ATTITUDE.

Anybody home???? I hope this finds everyone progressing in your journey...I guess I am. I'm finally feeling good!! It seemed I would never be ME again after 10-12 days of feeling absolutely miserable...but once I was able to eat...WOW! Amazing what a little food will do for you! LOL I have not lost any more weight - at least accd'ing to the scale. However, my pants are looser and my rings are sliding around my fingers. Guess that counts for something. Still, I know the scale is the standard for "success" - at least according to the professionals. I will see the dietician and surgeon on Tuesday. I expect a lecture on what I'm doing 'wrong' - thing is, I feel no restriction at all since the Fluid was removed on Day 11. I do all right during the day, but fixing dinner for my family - well, that's my RED ZONE. By then I am starving, and find myself munching like I always have. Plus nibbling on whatever I am fixing...which includes french fries (one of my biggest weaknesses). SO, evening is killer for me. I fully expect to get my first adjustment on Tuesday...I'm hoping that will help with all this. I'm hungry all day long. I am getting in my min 50g Protein, so that's a positive, but it does NOT fill me up. I've learned what NOT to eat if I don't want to be miserable: rising crust pizza (even a SLIVER!), WW Ziti (usually my fave, but recently it did not go well)...those have been the worst, but have been a good 'trial' for me to know what won't work. I'd love to hear how you all are doing. What has been your biggest struggle? What ARE your struggles (any??)? What are your successes? What do you miss? What do you no longer miss? I will tell you this....of course I have had NO Diet Coke since the day before surgery (save a SIP and it wasn't tasty at all!)...my b-i-l/s-i-l are here for the weekend and he mentioned how "clear" my skin looked - not blemish-wise (I'm pretty much past that except for the occasional tiny pimple), but that it was really just more "radiant" - I don't notice it, but he did! So, maybe getting off pop has had more than one positive reaction in my body!!?? LET'S HEAR YOU!! I need to know where you are (be sure to mention how long post-op), and your thoughts on all the changes in your body!! PLEASE SHARE! Best, Kim

Melissa....I've been wondering how things are going! I'm a littl aphrehensive about my first fill (on the 4th)...wondering how it'll affect me, and if I'll feel as sick as I did that first week-10 days... It does take time to adjust to all this, doesn't it? I'm still trying to get in those 50g Protein. I did find a shake mix that is tolerable...its by "ON", a soy-based product and only ONE scoop for 25g of protein!! That's twice the protein per scoop as the icky stuff my clinci required. I'm probably getting in too much sugar w/ it, mixing it up w/ OJ, but its a chance I'm willing to take to get it in. What kind of Soups are you eating? And you can't seem to get ANY thing solid down?? Even mushy MUSHY Beans or canned chicken? That tastes pretty good, mixed w/ a little cream of chicken soup....I made some really soupy mashed potatoes and added the chicken & soup to it...tasted quite good actually...considering I hadn't eaten anything else up till then!! Also, I found that Taco Bell refried beans w/ cheese are HEAVENLY. I think they're on the menu as "pintos & cheese"...but they are REALLY REALLY mashed up and SO SO SO good. Maybe you could try that?? I'm trying to do black beans here at home, too...cooking them in a skillet so I can mash them up. 1/2 c is 7 or 9g protein!! (can't remember which right now!) Here's hoping you can toss that 5 lbs!! Are you walking? That might expedite things!! I need to do better w/ that, too. Hang in there....love to know how you're doing! --Kim

Lucy....I'd have been scared senseless, too! You poor thing....my guess is that your body is sort of 'in shock' after that scare. However, I think you should eat SOMETHING. Take it from someone who went almost a week w/o eating due to nausea...it makes it worse! You must get in some kind of sustenence...even a glass of milk is better than nothing. Please try to get something in you.... I've had a pretty good day for food so far. Still under the Protein minimum, but better than it was. Today, I took a little nap and (as usual) woke up w/ a "need" for "something" to munch. So, I proceeded to have a couple bites off a frozen fruit bar and then dug into a bag of potato chips!! Ate only about 5...but know it was not a good choice. Oh well. I'm trying to be kind to myself by telling myself that these life-long habits do NOT go away over night -- band or no band -- but it takes many days/weeks of RE-TRAINING the brain to know "this is not a good idea". We're getting there, right?? Truth is, I CAN feel it all just sitting here...not fun. I have a pretty ugly rash on my belly. Been covering it with a neosporin-type cream. Seems to be helping 'some' but its taking a long time to go away. Drives me nuts, itching like crazy. Hope everyone is well. Lucy, BE SAFE, girl. EAT SOMETHING GOOD-FOR-YOU...seriously, not-eating is NOT the way to move forward. It causes all sorts of other issues, so please do find something decent....a Protein Shake is optimal, but a little of anything is better than nothing at all! --Kim

Taylor...you poor thing. I just cringe to think of your surgeon digging and poking around on you....gosh. I hope you are feeling better today. I've had TWO bad-eating days....well, yesterday wasn't too bad, its just that I know I am drinking too much/too soon after eating -- and sometimes cannot help myself from drinking as soon as I swallow. Such a hard thing to break....so yesterday, I felt full all day, tho I didn't eat much. Feeling a little better today, and determined to do things RIGHT today. All day long!! Saw the dietician yesterday; she told me what I already knew -- I'm not getting enough Protein. And she stressed the critical importance of it, so today, I'm ultra-mindful of getting it in. the area around my port and another incision is red and itchy...to the point of insanity. I am trying some tea-tree-oil ointment....hoping that'll fix it. I keep rubbing/scratcing it, then today finally looked at it...and its pretty red. Not 'right' on the incision/port, but to my left of it. Plus my belly seems oddly-shaped. Almost as if there's a football in there!? anyone else noticed any changes to your shape?? I did gain a couple pounds...which is not good, but considering I really had eaten NOTHING up until this past Sunday, its no wonder....I've been eating TOO much. Gotta start listening to this thing BEFORE I mindlessly cram something into my house. I am such a muncher....that is a hard habit to remove. Even when I felt miserable, I'd eat something else. NOT TODAY!! Gonna do it right today. Have a great day, all....thumbs up for successful choices and great rewards - scale and non-scale!! --Kim

BAD food DAY....not bad "food" just bad "me" with food today. Guess that little withdrawal last week is finally leveling out....I have been bottomless today. Well, except for the fact that I'm actually pretty uncomfortable...ate a few bites of pizza, (my boys' lunch)...not a good idea. Might be different if it were a THIN crust (which is sorta cracker'y)...but NO, this was SELF-RISING CRUST pizza....too doughy. Oh dear. I just want to munch.... I did read that there would be days like this .... just gotta make sure there are FEW of them!! I just feel a "lump" in my chest....gotta avoid that!! Here's to a better evening....oh and, another thing I'm struggling with is DRINKING with meals. I have been, and know that's a no-no!! I just get so thirsty.....gosh, gotta work on that, too!! ----Kim

wow, girls, everyone is doing so GREAT!! I have def rounded a corner, since sunday...feeling almost "me"...tummy still a little "goofy" - I think its just taking time to figure out what, exactly, its "saying" to me!!?? I love the idea of putting EVERYTHING into a one-cup measuring cup...that makes it so much easier! Thanks to whomever suggested that (I know you're up there somewhere!!)...that's a great visual boundary for me. Easy to just "guess" - esp for those of us who are career WW'ers...we "think" we know what our portions are. Oddly, I am finding I forget to eat in the middle of the day!! I have a cottage industry business in my home - I design paper-crafting items (mostly commissioned and bazaar sales)...so I spend virtually all day tucked away from the house, particularly the kitchen. THIS DOES NOT MEAN I AM NOT HUNGRY...it just means I am too lazy to get up and go DOWNSTAIRS (that means walking back UP) and fix something. I am also not good at "preparing" a meal...I want QUICK. Most of the time I rely on WW Entrees (a few I really love), and call it good. Not sure that is gonna cut it. When I finally do get downstairs to the kitchen, then I'm REALLY hungry and start the gnoshing on whatever is handy - including chips, etc. I've got to strategize this situation. SOON. I ate some grilled Mahi last night...a 3-4oz fillet, and I literally forked it to 'mash' before eating it with a TINY bit of "dirty rice". I did not really measure any of it...I eye-balled it, and know I ate too much rice. I had nothing else the rest of the evening, other than Water, tho, so calorie-wise I'm sure I was well below what I 'should' have had. Still, I had a gut-full of gas and went to bed feeling like I wanted to explode!! GasX must've helped in the night...and the hubby did wake up!! LOL I see the dietician tomorrow....I've been keeping a food-log but I am sure she'll find fault with it. I am WAY below getting in the right amt of Protein. HOW ARE YOU ALL DOING THAT?? Esp if you cannot stomach the shakes?? I am planning chicken for dinner this evening, but find daytime is the hardest time for me to get in a good amt of protein. SUGGESTIONS?? I had 1 c of oatmeal this AM...went down fine, I guess. I went LIGHT on the brown sugar, or I'm sure it would've tasted better! Knew to go easy on that, but it was def noticeable. So, here we go, girls!! Taylor -- W2G on your loss....wish you lived near me...I have a closet-full of 18/20s you could wear while you continue to shrink!! I'm in a 1x today, and feeling happy about that. But we won't be "Here" for long....lets all be good today...DRINK UP and get in that protein...and MOVE. That's another sore spot w/ me...sitting is easier! LOL Blessings! --Kim

Lucy, I'm new to all this, too...so I'm not expert (and I did not stay in a Holiday Inn Express last night!! lol), but some of the questions I've seen come 'round: 1. WHAT are you eating? Are you eating enough Protein??? This is my personal downfall. I was not a big protein eater before...eating more NOW is not just happening by osmosis....it is a CONSCIOUS decision/choice. meat, Beans, etc.... 2. Are you drinking enough? Learning to drink OUTSIDE a meal is challenging for me...i love drinking WITH my meals (learning this is NOT a good idea!)...still, sipping between meals has to be better than not at all!! 3. Are you MOVING?? GET YOUR HEAD IN THE GAME. If you're like me, you were hoping for a magic "pill" that would just stop your hand from grabbing something and cramming it down your throat...it ain't gonna work like that. "Grazing" is my middle name...I'm having to learn (the hard way) that BITES, LICKS AND TASTES add up - and right now, I have had one lick too many today...feeling it in my gut big time. So, you have to get your MIND wrapped around WHAT YOU ARE EATING, WHY you are eating, WHEN you are eating....and focus on those answers. I knows its true that PROTEIN is my friend. I, personally, have to find a happy way to get it in. I cannot stomach the Protein Shakes anymore...ohmyword. Talk about the puke tremors....wow....so, no, that isn't going to work for me. But maybe some canned chicken, mixed with a LITTLE bit of cr of chicken Soup? Or a tiny bit of bbq sauce?? Condiments in minimal doses, but whatever it takes to get it in. So, hopefully a few quesitons to answer your questions....??? I'm soooooooooooo learning all this...I just started MUSHY foods this weekend. My Dr took OUT some Fluid last week b/c I was SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO nauseated, for about 10 days straight...I've finally rounded a corner, but for me, trick is to take it SLLLLLOOOOOWWWWW.....hard for a grazer/crammer.... IT CAN BE DONE. Have you visited this site: (tried a link; was denied) its called "Banded Living" so look for banded living dot com. These gals, Sandi and Gloria, have seen it all...check in there and see if you find some add'l help. I have posted a couple times, and "Sandi" answered...and set me straight. They ain't there to "pet" you....they'll give it to you straight-up...but that's what we Foodies need, isn't it??? HANG IN THERE...it WAS worth it. Do the right things and you'll see the reward! --Kim

Oh, meant to add that I tried on my 18W jeans this morning -- COMFORTABLY loose!! Last time I put them on, I could barely button them, and we all know how miserable that is!! also, an 18W skort I've worn several times this summer (uncomfortably, I should add!) fit nicely, too. I asked my husband for a new COLTS t-shirt for the new season...normally I would wear a XXL, and thats a little snugger than I am comfortable...we got an XL, I brought it home, tried it on and it fits!! It'll be even better in a few more weeks! I'm sending my boys (12 and 8) with my husband for the pre-season games, then I will go when the regular season begins in Sept...and by then, I'll have the stamina to make the walk from the car to the stadium, and up to our birds-eye-view seats!! Those are NON-scale VICTORIES all of us should be watching for and celebrating!! --Kim

Carolina...I love your comparison to the baby...that's exactly right!! I've just been given the green light to eat MUSHY...it has felt so so so good!! I had some Taco Bell refried Beans - OH.MY.WORD. Divine! LOL Good source of Protein and so yummy! I will need to get some Bean-O, tho...oh my. Gas pains were not good. Will need to head that off at the pass. I've had serious nausea these past two weeks...feel I am rounding that corner, but I've been faithful to my 6-hr dose of Zofran. I want to try today to not use it. Feeling a little queasy right now, but trying to sip my Water. I had a scrambled egg for b'fast - not an egg fan, but also trying hard to focus on lots of protein today and figured that was a good place to start. Not sure its settling well, so I may have to give in to the meds. I am trying to listen to my body, to see if this nausea might be related to hunger. I quit eating the egg because it just didn't taste good - not necessarily because I was full. It went down all right, but not feeling that great right now. Still, wondering if 2 hrs is enough time and I should nibble something more....?? Still trying to figure that out. I have not eaten until "full" I don't think. Afraid to, so I'm just doing 1/2c of stuff (Soups, etc). Anyone tried eating Pasta?? Even a baby-food variety? I'm thinking it could be done if the pasta was REALLY finely mashed, with ample sauce and SMALL bites...??? I've enjoyed cream of potato Soup the past several days. I focus on mashing the potato bits w/ my tongue and it goes down great. Tastes wonderful. Its just a bag-mix I bought at the store, mix w/ water and simmer. Perfect!! Anyway, just so thankful to be eating FOOD. Makes all the difference in how I "feel" about it all...not eating really sucks. Enjoy Monday! --Kim

I am just learning all this...such a great question to ask! I am just now on mushy - and surgeon told me to eat a little (2-3 oz), then see how I "feel"...if I feel "comfortable" - I'm done. If I start feeling gurgly again in a couple hours, eat a little more. Struggle right now is gas...so sick to death of GasX...ugh. Still, it does help, as does walking. Guess I'd better get up and move a bit!! **off topic...did anyone have any allergic reaction to the surgical tape?? I left mine on until it started coming off on its own, but my skin is SO itchy...any suggestions about what to use to relieve that??? --Kim in IN

Have rounded a corner today. Went and got some Taco Bell ref. Beans & cheese...tasted SO GOOD. Got permission from my surgeon for some mushy foods...that really hit the spot!! Makes me feel human again....tummy still isn't 100%, but the beans did not make me feel worse in any way! YEA!!! Starting to feel "Human" again, and my hope is restored. I was beginning to think I would NEVER feel good again, or would ever eat some of my favorite things (mexican!! - I am so so so thankful I had my first taste today and know its not off the list!! -- IN MODERATION, of course, but not off the list!!) Beans are great Protein, so I take much comfort in that!! Upped my liquid intake, too...including a little more "Vitamin Water ZERO" citrus flavor...i was sorta dehydrated, so that didn't help. anyway, thanks all, for the good vibes. Happy to be back among the living and on my way to being back w/ my family!! BTW, I did update my ticker....my beginning weight now reflects what the clinic reported the day I started the liquid diet. In case it looked fishy... --Kim

Hi Miriam... my band was placed July 31. It has been a really difficult journey for me..and recovery has taken much longer (harder) than I ever expected. I "am" 50 y/o, so someone younger may have an easier time... I'd say stick as true to the pre-op as you can. I will say that "I" did "cheat" a couple times, but never once over the top...still, Carolinagirl is right....its training ground for what's ahead. Be sure you are DRINKING as much as you can, esp post-op. Do your best to get in ALL the nutrition you can post-op...I didn't do that b/c I was so DONE w/ the shakes, and ended up feeling SO SO SO SICK...still, do Soup as soon as you can. You won't feel deprived and your body won't revolt on you (like mine did). Don't believe for one minute that this is an "easy" road...it is NOT. But be sure to DRINK, "eat" what you are allowed, WHEN you are allowed, and you'll do fine. Just don't rush yourself. I think I have done that, and it causes LOTS of stress and depression can easily set in. Today is my first best day since I came home on aug 1. I feel stronger today than yet...actually had some TACO BELL refried pintos & cheese. Not something I can do daily, of course, but its great Protein and felt great to be eating NORMALLY....so it will come. Do what you are told...the headaches and fatique will pass, but get it all in...and DRINK DRINK DRINK your water/sugar-free stuff... Good luck!! Post often and let us know how you're doing. I, for one, am a strong believer in NO JUDGEMENT if you feel like crap and want to vent...this ain't for the faint-of-heart...so you have a right to whine, but we won't leave you in the ditch!! Best! --Kim in IN

Good morning... another rough night, but moving this morning. Barely, but moving. I know I am not eating enough. Just not sure what I 'can' eat at this juncture...I've asked my husband to field the call from my dr, who is supposed to be calling this AM...my hubby always knows what to ask. At this rate, I've been losing a pound a day....and it is not worth it. I am starving, but afraid to eat. I did make and eat about 1/4c cream of wheat, with a tiny bit of butter and a little sugar. LITTLE sugar. Just enough to make it palatable. What I really want is a big bowl of Cereal, with COLD milk. So, still fighting the nausea and praying it will ease up. I'm so sick of being 'down' - in every way. This is just so NOT ME, and I want "me" back!! So does my family. I've got to really concentrate on drinking more....not enough of that going on either. Sipping is hard, esp when you just feel so thirsty. Cold drinks have not bothered me at all...much preferred to warm things. So, praying for more relief today. Need to get out and walk a little, too..might help. Thanks for the good thoughts...best to all of you! --Kim

Thank you, Linda. It occured to me yesterday - FINALLY - that much of my problem could be due to the fact that I have not had a spontaneous/productive BM in over two weeks. I know I am severely dehydrated, and w/ all the nausea, afraid to drink much...so that complicates things significantly. I went to CVS at 4am today and bought an enema kit...came home, followed all the instructions, and NOTHING. All I got back was the fluid!! Severe stomach pains and nausea. I'm sure its a collection of issues. So, I've got an appt w/ my surgeon in 25 minutes - better get moving! - (oh boy, if only! ha)...and would love to think he'll just hook me up to some fluids, and maybe a powerful laxative and I'll be on my way to well. Thank you for the encouragement. I'll let you all know how it pans out. But take it from me -- DRINK YOUR FLUIDS!!

Ladies, I hate to keep banging an annoying drum here, but I am STILL sick as a dog!! My surgery was on July 31, so I'm at Day 10, I think... I CANNOT tolerate the Protein Shakes AT ALL...but am desperate for something filling. I've tried a few SMALL bites of things, including some grilled Mahi fish -- I had MAYBE an oz worth, and a couple green beans...(that was yesterday), and have been sick ever since. I know it is cautioned to NOT VOMIT, but I honestly can't help but wonder if I would feel better if I just could....its a constant "its right there" feeling...I'm afraid to breathe too deep, rolling over feels like I'm riding a wave... I have talked to the dietician...she recommended I stick w/ liquids for a few more days. Problem is, I cannot stomach the shakes. NO WAY. I felt my tummy lurch when it gets near my nose.... anyone EVER HEARD of this kind of issue this far out? It is not pain-med related....haven't taken those for a week. I am begging God for mercy and a miracle...either help me or kill me. Twelve pounds down, and it is NOT worth it. My family wants me back. Please tell me this will pass...I am feeling really scared!! --Kim BTW, I'm truly happy for each of you who are on your way!! I know the positive stories WAY out-weigh the negatives...just never in my life thought "I" would be one of the horror stories!!

I did talk to the nurse in my Surgeon's office. She is calling in a prescrip for Zofran...she said it works great. She says nausea this far out is unusual. Encouraged me to get in some creamed soups/broths, for extra calories. Cream of chicken sounds really good!! Tho I'd love to add some mashed potatoes! LOL I won't!!! :>) So, here's hoping the meds will quell this sick stomach I'm feeling, and help me feel like myself again quick! I'll let you all know!

Dawn and Taylor, thanks for the kind words....and the advice! I am eating popsicles along the way, and yes, I love milk so I've done that, too. I have had some THIN cream-of-wheat for b'fast a couple mornings, maybe 1/3c worth - VERY SLOWLY, and today sherbet sounded good so I bought some and had maybe 1/2c worth. The sweet/cold thing is so soothiing. I may try Slimfast...I have used that before and it was do'able. I did buy some Ensure, but GAG...can't do that, either. Tastes just like the Protein powder.... I will call the Dr. here shortly. I give up. If the nausea was nil, I'd be 90% I think. Gas pains and pressure are pretty much done, I think...I did try to walk quite a bit. I think sleeping is also a depression mechanism for me...and I AM depressed. Feeling so crummy is just so not me. I'd rather sleep it off. I've GOT to feel better by Thursday...we're hosting some friends for some lake/boat time and a cook-out after. Sure can't be a ZERO for that!! Thanks for listening, ladies. Best to you in the days ahead!! --Kim

Hi, all... I have had a miserable 5 days....severe nausea. Trying so hard to avoid puking b/c I know that causes problems for itself, so I've been in bed MOST of the past week. My poor husband!! I know I am not getting enough nutrition...still on liquids, but even the smell of a Protein Shake brings up visions of throwing up and I just cannot get even a tiny bit down. I have tried chicken noodle Soup broth - avoiding the noodles, tomato soup, sherbet (TINY BIT), ... anything I can think of that might not cause nausea. Because of this, I'm totally zapped. No strength at all...showering and fixing my hair/face sends me to my rocking chair to recover. I HATE whining...believe me, but I NEVER in my wildest dreams ever thought recovery would be like this. NO ONE told me to expect this...a good friend, banded in Jan 10, told me he was up and around in a week or so...so I fully expected to be doing at least that well...but we're on Day Eight, and I'm still dragging. Incisions are not an issue. Healing just fine - ITCHY!; tape working its way off. Is this nausea 'normal'? It just seems like everyone else is doing so well, and I just hate that I'm struggling so much to get back to LIFE. Last Friday/Saturday I had SEVERE gas pains, could not eat much because of the pressure. Tried eating a little on Sunday, but spent the entire afternoon in bed, and has basically been there the entire time. To say I have regret would be an understatement....and I sincerely hate to be Negative Nelly here, since all of you are doing SO well, but this has truly been awful. Not worth the 10lbs I've lost....not worth it. When can I expect to feel better?? I'm supposed to be on liquids for another week or so...I know I am literally starving myself b/c I cannot get the shakes down, but its either that or throw up, and I'm avoiding that at all cost! Thanks for listening to this usually-upbeat girl face the biggest mountain of my life. If I could rip this thing out, I would!! --Kim