kkccmom

HI girls....thought I'd check in... Re-read our recent posts and here's where I am right now... I was scheduled to see my surgeon today; got a call on Friday that he was called out of town...SO, went to the the PA that works alongside him (in another location). I explained to her my issues (still on-going since my post in November)...food randomly sticking...then I can eat fine for a day, then for 2 days can't eat anything, etc.... So, her concern was that the band may have slipped...so she ordered an esophagram (drink the goo and get an xray/ultrasound done while you're swallowing)...that showed that the band was fine BUT I might have a minor hiatal hernia!! At least the radiologist thought so...SO, she agreed that it makes the most sense to removed some Fluid, then see the surgeon in about a month. He'll review the pictures and, based on how I'm doing between now and then, decide if its a real "issue" that will need to be addressed or if just removing this tiny bit (.25cc) will make the difference. I just know I've had days where I do fine, then the next 2 or 3 I can barely tolerate even a smoothie or Soup. SO, we'll see. I didn't look at the scale today -- didn't want to know....but I do know that I feel great where I am. For church yesterday, I wore a dress I haven't worn in FIFTEEN YEARS!! Yes, 15! It FIT -- not tight, but comfortably...I felt like a million bucks! And THAT is worth it. I really don't care if I lose another pound. Would it be okay?? CERTAINLY, but I really just want to be able to eat normally and not be afraid to eat for fear of choking or having to run to the bathroom b/c it ain't gonna stay down!! SO, I'm feeling hopeful. I am also resigning myself to QUITTING drinking Diet Coke - once and for all. Its probably not THE culprit for any issues, but it certainly might be contributing. I know the aspartame is poison to me, so for lots of reasons I need to just stop drinking it altogether. I'm not a water-drinker, so I can go all day and drink nothing....need to try to do better on that. Anyway, still struggling w/ the SWEETS...I can make cookie dough and eat it just fine. Ugh. Need to get out and walk now that the weather here in IN is SPRING'y!! How are you all doing?? Linda, any improvements on your situation?? Sure hope so. I KNOW this is all worth it...but it sure ain't a picnic, is it??? BLessings! Kim

Linda... today is another "gag" day for me. I wake up hungry, but know not even a shake will go down. So, after running a couple errands, I came home and fixed a bowl of ice cream with crumbled sugar-cone on top. Even this is sticking. Ugh. Its where I just am afraid to eat ANYTHING. I dread mealtime because I know I won't be able to enjoy it...and like you, I'm afraid of removing Fluid b/c I know I'll just eat everything in sight. Am I glad I did the band? YES. But I sure do wish I could find that 'green zone' they talk about so I don't feel like I'm going to die every time I put ANYTHING in my mouth. I do hate this. I know all about emotional eating...but right now, I can't even do that!! HANG IN THERE. I'm learning to be happy where I am NOW...and just think, "If I lose more, great. If not, great. I like me HERE." Thing is, that really IS where my head is. My hubby is so pleased w/ where I am now, so who cares if I lose any more??? See the surgeon next week. Will see what his take is. I just know I do feel pretty miserable.

WOW...I thought I had lost my mind or something...everything looks so different!! I 'thought' it was "lapbandtalk" but when I came to the site, it didn't look the same - and wasn't called the same! -- so I didn't venture in. Computer crashed so all my saved places were 'out there' and I lost all my log-in info....but FINALLY I've found our group again! I'VE MISSED TALKING TO YOU ALL!! HOW ARE YOU?? I'm in the same rut I've been in for MONTHS....cannot seem to get past the 40-42 mark. Its the darn sweets, I just know it. That and its been a LONG winter here in IN so I haven't exercised at all... Saw my surgeon last month; he was okay that I'd pretty much stayed the same over the winter, but would really like me to get 10 more off, then "see" about going another 10. I just cannot seem to get on with it. And I've been ignoring some band issues, where I really struggle to eat the good stuff. Some days I can't even get a shake/smoothie down. And right, now I'm gagging on a cookie (which I deserve)...ugh. I don't want to have Fluid removed; I feel that'll just put me back to eating too much, even good stuff. But I'm really REALLY miserable most of the time. As I've said before, I'm ULTRA sensitive to over-fills, and this has been going on for several months. So, UGH. just not sure what to do here. Would love an update from all of you...victories and set-backs. Best, Kim

Hey everyone...time for a little venting... I was supposed to see my surgeon - and the dietician - this past Monday (yesterday)...I didn't want to go, b/c I know I've gained some weight...so I didn't want to face it. I rescheduled my appt, HOPING that, because at the time they were so booked the receptionist didn't think they could see me BEFORE CHRISTMAS, I'd be off the hook and would have time to turn this ship around a little!!...except I know I'd just keep eating. So, then she called this morning and I took a Nov 5 slot...this means I have to really get a grip all this week, so I won't be any worse than I am right now. I'm feeling SO LUMPY AND FRUMPY right now. So what did I do? I took myself out for Mexican for lunch. REAL Mexican - not Taco Bell. I went to a local sit-down and had myself a burrito and chips. It was FABULOUS...except that I have NO restriction at all and ate nearly the whole thing. I left there feeling horrible and knew I would not eat the rest of the day. And I haven't. Not even a drink. So the rest of the week I have to watch my p's and q's and steel myself for the reality when I step on the scale next week. I just don't want the lecture. I KNOW what to do. I KNOW how to measure portions, but frankly, I don't want to feel like I'm on Weight Watchers. Ever again. I did go to ZUMBA last night. Kept up except for not really knowing the routines...had a sweat. Wanted to go this evening, but my hubby is traveling and my guys had lots of homework so I needed to stay and get them situated. So maybe I can manage something tomorrow. Even if its just a walk. Have to move. Other than over-doing it today, generally speaking I really am comfortable where I am right now. Would I LOVE to lose 20 more? Yes. But do I want to work at it? No. I worry about a fill because I am SO SO SO sensitive to it. If I thought I could find that 'happy place' between where I was BEFORE the last fill and what we ended up removing...I think that could work. And it might be just THE place to settle in for the next 20-25. But its kinda scary. Just pray I can manage to keep my mouth wired shut and stay away from the Cookies. Other thing, I'm literally sitting on top of FOUR BAGS of Christmas candy - Ghirardelli squares (peppermint/white choc), kisses, mixed Nuggets, and two other HUGE bags. I make little holiday favors/gifts for craft fairs, so that's why I bought them. I MUST control myself...I could eat the whole bag of Ghirardellis or the Reece's trees. OH.MAN. Today I ate only ONE Reece's tree. PROGRESS. lol My clothes are not feeling too tight, thankfully, but I can just "feel" it in my abdomen - which is where I carry my weight -- I feel bloated. Anyway, that's where I am. Not happy but dreading the cold hard truth. And I know I just have to do the right things and it'll all be fine. Hubby and I are taking a cruise early December. Maybe I can get my head wrapped around that and try a little harder to control myself and get off a couple more # by then. However, if I don't, I'll still have a wonderful time. You see EVERYTHING on a cruise. Actually, in some cases, I feel REALLY good about myself. LOL! Hope everyone is doing all right. I'm up later than usual and about to call it a day. Trying to finish up a few things, but I'm done. Hugs, Kim

Hi all...Linda, I know exactly how you feel...I feel like a toad right now, but I've been eating like there's no tomorrow. After that awful ordeal with my band being over-filled, once I got that Fluid removed I am ALMOST free as a bird, but eating like a vulture. Well, maybe not THAT bad, but a little too freely. I am afraid to get on the scale, too, so that doesn't help at all. Amy, I NEED to get moving. I know that would help so much...but you're right, starting is the hardest part and I just can't seem to get there. Now is the time...weather is still nice'ish here in Indy, and I do have a membership at LA Fitness so I need to get back to ZUMBA...ugh. Just have to START. Anyway, it IS a constant struggle...forever, I'm afraid. With me, its SWEETS. I can really REALLY pack them in. Yesterday, I bought a package of those "sugar wafer" cookies; I ate ONE HALF of the package and threw the rest away. At least I had SOME sense...still, I can really eat those things. And its like a magnet, when I'm at the store, to put them in the cart. I did pretty good there for a while, then just let myself fall back into the sewer. LOL Anyway, its one day at a time. I see the dietician and surgeon next Monday. I feel like I'm in for a lecture. I don't know if I need a fill or not...its just so scary because I am SO SO SO SENSITIVE to too much...makes me sick as a dog. But if I could find just the right GREEN PLACE, between what the Doc put in and then what was taken out...I think I'd be in the right spot. But its scary. And no, I'm not measuring or watching or being careful at all. Nothing will manage that except ME. CHOICES CHOICES CHOICES. Keep on keepin' on, girls! We've come such a long way...let's see it through! Kim

Hi girls... Thought I would just check in and let you know how my first-day-after-my-unfill went!! I actually ate very little...ended up eating a bowl of Cereal for supper. Tried eating a few bites of a hamburger patty, but it didnt go well. Nothing major but I didn't push it. So, the cereal sounded good (cap'n crunch p'butter)... It dissolves well so no sticking issues. No problems at all. I have not had a Diet Coke for about a week. Thought I would just try it today...tasted awful. Guess I won't be slugging it down like I have been. Lots of good reasons not to! Slept pretty good - NO CHOKING!!! But I woke up at about 3:30-45 with a splitting Headache. Took some Tylenol then waited to make sure it was going down, so I didn't get back to sleep until almost 5. Ugh. Felt it all day. I went shopping today, for a new bra. LOL...what a trip. Don't know about you all, but boy have things "shifted" with losing 50 lbs!!! I got a new bra in Feb...with a professional fitting. It has become a little "baggy" so I wanted to get a new one. But it just didn't go well. Tried 4 diff brands, and still don't know what in the world I need. My other "new" one was $85...trying to avoid that! Still, it's the best-fitting bra I have ever had. Until now! Oh well. Haha Anyway, feeling good. Busy day tomorrow...have a booth at a local fall bazaar, then hosting some college girls from my church, for dinner and dessert. Hope you are doing okay. Thought you would all be interested to know how things have shaken out!!! Kim

Melissa...so great to hear from you! Thank you for the encouragement. I do feel just about 100%, and I can't tell you how great that is. I do know, as I said, I will have to really watch it or I will see the pounds fly back on faster then they have come off. I would not, however, recommend my ordeals last week to anyone. But thankfully I am on the other side and will just look forward. I will think about the pictures. Frankly, I have very few of my old self. I was very careful to stay behind the camera so it will take some digging, but I will see what I can do. I do know that papaya is awesome for upset stomach or indigestion. I have used the caplets before. I got some Prilosec today..took one and plan to use the 14-day plan and make sure I am well past all that reflux stuff. I think having Fluid removed will make all the difference, but this is a bit more insurance. I'm just looking forward to sleeping in my bed, with my husband, ALL NIGHT LONG, and not choking half to death! Praise the Lord!!! Kim

You all will be sick of hearing from me....but at the risk of that, I thought I would let you know todays news... Long story short, ended up having an adjustment - the Phyicians Asst, not my surgeon, removed .7cc from my band. Almost instantly I felt like the old me! It was almost like magic. No more nausea, I drank a SoBe Water (the fuji alpple pear is delish), and will have veggie beef soup broth for supper! She said I could have a SCRAMBLED EGG tomorrow morning!!! Hallelujah...I'm sure that egg will taste like heaven! Lol Honestly, I am ME again!!! I know I will have to be VERY careful with my choices and I MUST get in the habit of measuring...I know with less restriction, I will just eat whatever I want, and put back on the 8 lbs I lost last week! Their scale weighs about 3lbs heavier than mine, but the outcome is the same: since the 16th, with all this craziness, I lost 8 lbs!! I don't want to put it all back on. Anyway, I am feeling so good I just can't believe it. And just so relieved and thankful. She did tell me that there really are patients who absolutely cannot tolerate the band and end up having it removed. I don't think I am one of them, but certainly I cannot tolerate much restriction, so it means more attention to it all on my part. I am LAZY when it comes to all that, but I am learning a valuable lesson here. I hope the others who are struggling will find their happy place...both with the band and in your head. That is something we all need help with, you know? Feeling sooooooo much better! Kim

As the day has progressed, I'm still feeling sick'ish. My stomach really does hurt, and I think its pure hunger. But I don't DARE eat any food. And I'm afraid to drink much. I sipped some Vitamin Water earlier...probably need to just do more of that. And maybe try some broth. I just hate this nauseated feeling. I'm sorry you're struggling, Linda...I certainly didn't expect any of this! I'm hoping I feel 100% better tomorrow, when I could potentially start with thicker liquids. I am just simply hungry. Fingers crossed!

As the day has progressed, I'm still feeling sick'ish. My stomach really does hurt, and I think its pure hunger. But I don't DARE eat any food. And I'm afraid to drink much. I sipped some Vitamin Water earlier...probably need to just do more of that. And maybe try some broth. I just hate this nauseated feeling. I'm sorry you're struggling, Linda...I certainly didn't expect any of this! I'm hoping I feel 100% better tomorrow, when I could potentially start with thicker liquids. I am just simply hungry. Fingers crossed!

I've had a MISERABLE WEEKEND...and last night was THE WORST I've ever had, trying to rest. For the first time, I had MAJOR choking with some FIERY reflux...Kept begging God to just kill me. It was really awful. I ended up sleeping in another room b/c all my gurgling and choking was keeping my husband awake and he had an early flight for biz this morning.... I called and talked to the nurse at my surgeon's office. I was sure she'd tell me to come on in and get some Fluid removed...BUT, she talked me thru the week and has suggested that I have just pushed this fill too soon and have inflamed/irritate the band and my stomach, and to just go back to clears for all of today, and tomorrow I can add some Protein Shake. The problems really started on Friday night, when we went for Taco Bell. I went SLOW and took small bites - only about 3, gr beef/ref Beans, and before the evening was over, I tossed it all. Next day, I ate some potato Soup. She told me I should have stuck to clears after the vomiting episode - which I didn't do, so then put more stress on the band. I re-read the manual, and then did just slurp the broth off some chicken/wild rice soup (Progresso)...but just didn't feel great. Started sleeping propped up, hoping that'd help with the gagging stuff...it did, SOME. Then yesterday, I was feeling lots better and had planned to meet a friend for lunch a Cracker Barrel. I knew I wouldn't be able to eat much but ordered my FAVE item - chicken and Dumplings, mashed potatoes and green beans. I figured I can mash the daylights out of the chicken, watch carefully the noodles, manage the potatoes and beans....and I did pretty good, and ate maybe an OUNCE, total. Kept it down, and felt 'okay' as I drove home. I finished eating (brought the entire meal home) at about 12:30...and I got home at 4. Had only a little Water AFTER the meal...and by the time I got home I felt like CRAP. and the rest of the night was horrible. I was in so much pain it was all I could do not to take myself to the ER for some help. I dozed on and off, between the pressure in my chest, and the choking...had WACKY dreams and didn't rest at all. SO, I was determined to call the dr and get in there and get some fluid removed. But the nurse felt certain I'd just pushed it too much and that if I would just do the clears today, adding the Protein shake tomorrow, I would find it all settling down. So, that's what I'm going to do! According to my scale, from Monday to today, I've lost 6 lbs. IS THAT NORMAL? What do you all lose the week or so following a fill??? I feel like I've never been "normal" - I'm just not sure what I'm supposed to be feeling. I had fluid removed about 10 days after the band was placed (7/12)...I was sick as a dog for those days. Ugh. Anyway, that's where I am. Praying this will settle down and I will see the rest of this weight (20 lbs) come right on off. I need to get moving, too, and I know that'll help. Thanks for "listening" to my droning...its great to have a place to vent where people will understand and be patient. I do have to get "better" ASAP because feeling as I have, I'm really no good for my family. They need me - and I need them!! Thanks! Kim

had that very conversation w/ my surgeon on Monday...we agreed: it ISN'T new and "fun" anymore! The newness has def worn off and we get lazy. I have only about 20 more to go, too...and it seems like it's taking FOR-EVER to get a grip. Had a fill on Monday...major sticking issues all weekend and today. Feeling better this evening, but haven't eaten much for 3 days. Lost 3 lb last week!! I have a CARB problem, so no, I'm not following a low-carb anything. I need to. Tho now, with this touchy band, I have to be REALLY mindful of what's going in. Took a spoonful of a malt I made for my son -- BAD CHOICE. Too rich, I guess. Had major sliming issues until it relieved itself. Ugh. Hate that. But I read on another thread to really "Baby the Band" for at least a week...Guess I didn't do that. Followed the rules on the front end, but must've rushed solids. BAD CHOICE. If there's little restriction, I'll just scarf down whatever's in front of me. I don't know...I agree its just not new anymore but we have to be mindful of our choices or we'll just end up back to where we started = FAT. No thanks. -Kim

Thanks, Jenn....I'm trying. Have a SPLITTING headache. Think I may try to drink some broth or something and take a little nap. Hope to feel better. Feeling kinda nauseated, maybe just from the headache, or having eaten virtually nothing for 2 days. Thank you for the input! I'll give it another day or so and see how it goes!

Is it unusual for there to be a bit of a delay in "issues"? I had a fill last Monday, followed the rules to a T and started softs on Wed evening (mashed potatoes)...on Friday, I had a Clif Builder Protein bar...no issues. Friday night, I went to Taco Bell w/ my fam. I chose a Mexican pizza and had about 3 tiny bites and it all came back up. In about the same form it went down...tho I did CHEW!! So, since then I've not been able to really eat anything. My shakes are even iffy...? I have had Fluid removed twice and Dr says I am WELL BELOW the "normal" capacity for this far out (July 2012). I seem to be hyper-sensitive to a fill, and certainly anything more than a "smidge" will not work at all. So, I AM drinking Water w/ no problem. Just sips. Should I just take it easy for a couple more days? Maybe I just over-did it too soon? I did follow his instructions, but maybe I did just get in a hurry since I'm so touchy. Also, I have a LOT of gurgling noises that echo around my throat...is that common?? I've lost 46...20'ish more to go. I don't want to go backwards... Thanks! Kim

Happy to have found this thread...so here's whats going on with me: I had my band placed July 31, 2012. I was DESPERATELY ill for the first 10 days...the surgeon did not add any Fluid to the band when he placed it, but with the issues I was having - severe nausea, headache, could not drink or eat anything of nutritional value - he took fluid out. So that fluid-removal set me "back" a little from what I should have started. Still, I lost weight. I've had a couple fills, and TWO removals, but gained about 5 lbs in the midst of that. Had another fill last Monday, and Doc said it was only about 1/2cc b/c I am so sensitive to the fills...I followed the rules to the T, and finally tried hard-solids on Friday in the form of a Clif Builder Protein bar. I had no issues. That evening, I went to Taco Bell w/ my family and chose a Mexican pizza - THIN crispy 'crust', soft ref Beans and gr beef. I could not eat but about 3 TINY bites and it all came back up, GUSHING. When I went to bed - after staying up LATE to make sure things were settled down, I could not lay on either side because of choking on all kinds of phlegm...literally. It woke me up choking and coughing. I finally propped myself up and slept on my back and did rest. I felt awful all day Saturday, all day yesterday and today isn't looking too good either. I am having caffeine withdrawal because I am afraid to even try a Diet Coke (which I am addicted to), so I've been 36 hrs w/o caffeine. I'm afraid to take a Tylenol for fear of not being able to keep it down. I fixed a Protein shake this morning (milk and protein pdr) and tried to SIP it...it has mostly stayed down, but LOTS of slime. So, all that to say, how long would you go before calling the dr.? I feel like SUCH a wienie, considering he says I am WAY BELOW "normal" capacity in my band, and appear to be hyper-sensitive to the fills. I wonder if I just need a few days on THIN liquids to see if things will settle down. I don't want to have fluid taken out. I just have TWENTY more lbs to go and I would love to get there....but I can't live like this either. anyone else had the sensitivity to the fills? If so, how did you handle it? All input will be appreciated! Kim

Good morning....just checking in. Again, my keyboard won't let me start a new paragraph!? I'll just try to spread things out so it doesn't look like one huge run-on sentence!? I had a fill on Monday. He said he'd try just a 1/2cc, since I am SO sensitive to the amt in my band. I followed all the rules of liquids for the first 48, then just did softs for a day or so. Friday, I had a "Clif Builder" Protein Bar, no problems. Friday night, we went to Taco Bell. I had a Mexican pizza = ref Beans, ground beef and a LIGHT chip 'crust'...could NOT get any of it down. What DID go down, came right back up. IN ITS ENTIRETY. i.e., VOMITING. (Hm, that's weird) Then all day Saturday and Sunday I can barely get any fluids down. When I try to lay down, on my side, I get choked...seems like an AWFUL lot of phlegm/slime seems to be producing?? I finally slept propped up, on my back and did rest... This morning, I made a Protein Shake, and drank SIPS -- S.I.P.S. -- and still am having trouble. I gave up, and just made a big mug of Water to bring to my craft studio and am trying to sip on that. I did have some sliming w/ the shake, but no vomiting. Still, feeling hungry but I don't dare try anything else. This worries me. I lost 3 lbs last week (accd'ing to my scale) - which is great - but I know I'm not getting any nutrition. How long would you go before letting the Dr know?? I'm thinking something I ate on Friday may have just irritated my "tube" and therefore a few days "rest" should make it finally relax and be normal...so "I" am thinking a few more days, just to see how it goes. I know this is forcing me to drink the water I know I have not been drinking...just to stay hydrated. But the pressure in the middle of my chest make my neck and head ache...and maybe its more from the stress of it than anything literally physical...? Anyway, struggling here and hoping it will pass so I can stay on the straight and narrow. I had gained 5 lbs since July 31...not good. So, there was TOO LITTLE restriction with the band = I was eating anything/everything I wanted...but now, this is just nuts. My Dr did tell me that I am WAY BELOW the "normal" range (for band capacity) for this far in...I've had Fluid removed twice in the last year. For some reason I am hyper-sensitive to a certain amount...and I wonder why?? I keep telling myself "only 20 more pounds; only 20 more lbs"...if I could just get thru this difficult time, I could get there by Christmas!!! But oh the price. Sigh. Sorry for the whining, friends. Its just that 3 days of this is really wearing on me. And I have plans to meet a friend for lunch tomorrow, at Cracker Barrel...I know I can eat SOFT foods there, but if I can't even get a shake down, I know lunch will be much less pleasurable, company excluded. Anyway, hope all of you are having successes!! Happy thing is, my rings are almost falling off, pants are REALLY baggy in the seat. I love that!! Have a good week! Kim

Well, as I feared...up a little more, for about 5 lbs!!! NOT COOL. Got a fill so hopefully that will help. I am just so eager to just eat ice cream or soft cookies...ugh. (keyboard won't let me start a new paragraph!?) So, I just have to get a grip on these poor choices. He seems to think if I am "good" (my words, not his) I should be able to lose 1.5 lb each week!!! Yikes. Not sure I've done that yet...so I'd have to really REALLY do the right things. Hope all of you are doing all right. Linda, any changes for you??? Drop a note, ladies, when time and energy permit! --Kim

Hi Linda...I'm in a rut, too! I gained about 4 lbs between my last two fills...this last time, which was 5 weeks ago, I started out gung-ho, followed the instructions about liquids for the first couple days...but since then, I feel like a bottomless pit! I am eating almost anything I want...some sticking issues, but few. And JUNK FOOD like crazy. Its like I have NO control at all. I am going to be REALLY bummed if I go in on the 16th, for a check-up and fill, and have gained again. My clothes are fitting good, so I am not noticing any changes in that, but I am afraid to step onto the scale. I just know I am eating too much -- mostly calorie-laden stuff. (for some reason, my computer won't let me start a new paragraph -- sorry for this eternal paragraph!)...anyway, I know, accd'ing to my dr, that I am WAY below the norm for band-fill. Not sure why I can't tolerate the tighter band, but I do look forward to getting another small fill. I think part of me is feeling VERY COMFORTABLE where I am. I am wearing a 16 on the bottom, and maybe a 1x on top (I am a DD on top)...and just feeling very happy here. Would I love to lose another 20-25? YES. But am I worrying about it? No. I just dread a lecture from my med team...which is what I fully expect because I am not losing, "like I should"... so, I must get control of this junk food thing and do better. Plus, I am not walking - or anything - at all, and I know I don't drink enough water. I think I know what my "problems" are, but I am just not very motivated to fix them!! I'm sorry you're struggling with all this, Linda. Hopefully there are no issues with the band itself - like that its shifted or something...I have a friend who ended up with that problem and had to have the band removed. Please don't put off having it checked out...did you have an "esophagram" at your one-year?? I did, just to make sure the band was where it was supposed to be...if it has moved upward, it could cause some of the problems you are describing. Please go in before too long!! Thumbs up to us all....we have to keep a positive mindset, remembering where we were last year. That's what I keep telling myself -- as my husband does! -- I would be the other direction if not for this tool. I have NO regrets. I am not willing to just give up and not look toward losing more, but neither will I bemoan my less-than-perfect record. I will celebrate the success I HAVE had and will just make some better choices each day!! Hugs to you all! -- Kim

Just me again...STARVING and wondering if all of you follow the "no solids for 48 hours after a fill" rule!??? Honestly, I could eat a horse. This morning, I did a DUMB thing and made a smoothie...yogurt, V8 smoothie juice, frz stbys, ice...it made a HUGE glass-full and I downed all of it.... then had MAJOR gut issues....had some diarrhea and a bit of a 'vomit with nothing in it' episode...yikes. Not fun. So, after that now, I've had two Protein shakes...and feel like I am starving... How soon - and WHAT -- do you eat after a fill?? I really REALLY want to do it right this time, so I need some input here. BTW, I went for a 2-mi walk this morning! Hoping that'll help, too!! Thanks! Kim

Well, had my esophagram today...making sure band is still where it belongs...all is well. Since having Fluid removed back in June, I have had virtually NO restriction, eating anything (and everything) I want. And I gained about 4 pounds! I did get a fill...and the surgeon has a theory that my GB has been acting up all along, possibly contributing to my troubles and sensitivity to my fills. You probably don't recall that I had to have fluid REMOVED about a week after surgery (ONE YEAR AGO TODAY)...then two or three minor fills, and then the most recently another "withdrawal". Doc says I am WELL below where most people are at this stage (well below band-fluid capacity). So, with the gallbladder out, I am hoping this fill will get me back on track. I am trying very hard today to follow the rules that apply to the first 48after a fill. I AM kinda hungry, having eaten nothing all day, but I'm trying to follow the rules...tomorrow I can have my shakes... I think Lucia said something about getting too comfortable where she is...I'm there, too...not SATISFIED but soooooooo much happier than I was a year ago! So, hopefully this will be a step in the right direction and that I will see progress. I think my brain is ready to engage again, after a very lazy summer. I would love to see 20+ by Christmas...I know it can be done, but I do have to do my part. This includes getting my butt moving. Anyway, that's that, girls. Here's to moving forward - and skinnier! Kim

Linda...I agree with Amy...it is NOT wrong to desire positive reactions from people. I'm recently in the same boat...I'm down 43'ish, which IS a significant amount, and IT DOES SHOW...but still, people ask, "Have you lost weight?" DUH. But I just smile and say, yes, I have! And MOVE ALONG. Don't waste time on them....keep your focus on what YOU want out of this, and that's what matters. Newest thing for me -- I had a gallbladder attack on Wednesday, started about noon-2pm on Wed, and (long story short), I made 2 trips to the ER thru the night (Wed/Thurs AM), and ended up having it removed Thursday afternoon. On the first ER visit, they did an ultrasound and found gallstones...without question. I happened to be visiting my parents in KCMO so went to the hospital where they have the most confidence...and they were great. So, within 24 hours of the on-set of this I was in surgery. I flew home to Indy today...Feeling pretty good. Just really tired and my incisions are really tender - OF COURSE!! Not much different than the band surgery....but oh my word...I have NEVER had that kind of pain, that intense...never ever. It was awful. I was begging for pain meds, and they could only give me something every 2 hours...and it was BARELY taking the edge off inside the first hour, then the second hour was just horrible. I'd do labor again over that!! (well, maybe NOT, but it was about a "14" on the 1-10 pain scale!)... So, back home now, awaiting the arrival of my husband and oldest son (13) who have been in Haiti this week, on a missions trip w/ our church. I am thankful I was at my folks' when I had my 'thing', otherwise I'd have been home alone, not sure who to call in the middle of the night to take me to the ER, AND who would care for my 9-y/o son in my absence. I believe the Lord saw this one coming and orchestrated that I be with my mom and dad this week! It all worked out beautifully. My mom was with me every minute, and my s-i-l took great care of my little guy. ...anyone else had any gallbladder problems?? Before or after the Band?? I have an 'esophagram' on Wednesday morning, then a follow-up w/ my surgeon at 2pm...I did have my mom call and inform them of my surgery. And as far as I can tell, the band was not in the way and caused no issues at all. the 31st is my ONE YEAR...like many of you, I wish I were farther down the road, but I'm certainly not where I was 12 months ago, and that's something we ALL can celebrate!! On the mend, and ready for some sound sleep tonight. Hoping my guys get here soon or I won't be awake to welcome them home!! Have a wonderful Sunday, all! K.

Hi all...Linda, we ARE here, never fear. I'm sure we just are overwhelmed with the never-ending food issues! I am up at least 5 lbs...the adjustment to remove Fluid has done what I feared....loosened me up so much I am eating almost like I always have...probably not quite the volume, but not far from it. I still have some minor sticking issues, but nothing like before...but now I am afraid I'm going too far back. Sweets are my worst enemy...and today, I ate McD's...dbl cheeseburger and small fry. ATE IT ALL...slow'ish, mind you, but all of it. Am feeling kinda bloated right now, tho, not fun...but I know I will still eat more later...I am at my parents' and for whatever reason, whenever I am here, all I want to do is eat. Ugh. What IS that??? Like Melissa said, we would all be HEAVIER this year instead of whevere we are right now if not for our procedure and our own efforts, we know it can be done, but we also know the work WE have to do. I am not exercising, either...that would change lots of things I know. How do we get out of that rut and get our fannies moving???? One day at a time...we can keep moving forward...a few set-backs are normal for everyone...we are not giving up, right?? On another note...have any of you heard of this product called, "IT WORKS!"? I was given a trial "wrap"...I will let you know. I've seen some pretty impressive before/after photos...maybe I will have a story to tell, too! Keep the faith! Kim

...ooops! Not there quite yet... Bra is loosey-goosey, too, and that's not comfortable...Have to keep hiking up the straps. DRIVES ME NUTS! lol Anyway, struggling to get back on the straight and narrow and get moving forward again...KUDOS to you, Marie...its just terrific! Hang in there, gals...we will win!! Eventually -- and I keep telling myself "THIS IS NOT A RACE"!!! Kim

Marie!! YOU ARE A ROCK STAR!! So so so awesome, Lady! We are ALL proud of you - certainly almost as much as you are of yourself, and as your family is!! That is just amazing, and SO INSPIRING! Keep up the hard work...clearly its paying BIG dividends for you! As for me...I had that "withdrawal" adjustment a few weeks ago, and boy can I tell. Its eased up my eating issues, but now I fear I am over-doing it, and the scale is up a couple pounds! EEK!!! I've had a TERRIBLE craving (and have given in!) to those "sugar wafer" cookies...Yesterday I ate AN ENTIRE PACKAGE!! Today, I walked right past then in the store...and there are no more in the house! I am not really eating well, generally, so I've excused this behavior...but I'm getting a grip!! My anniversary will be the 31st..I was hoping to be down 50 - but I'm going to be lucky to get in for my surgeon visit and have held steady at 44...I will have an "esophagram" where they will watch to see how things move thru the stoma and whether the band is still where it belongs. I was "iffy" on that one when I was having so many problems...but since he removed a smidge of Fluid, and I am eating fine now, THANKFULLY it would seem all is well...except for MY CHOICES. I do notice lots of NSVs..my rings roll around my finger and are close to being down-right too big (not there

Okay....had my visit w/ my surgeon today...and as I dreaded, he took OUT some Fluid. Felt it was the best start to see what might be going wrong. They suggested that my 'pipe' might be swollen or irritated, which would account for the difficulty in getting things through. It may have happened with something I tried to eat, even a few weeks ago!, and just never had time to really heal...I also didn't give much thought to the fact that I have had some unusual heartburn - very unusual for me - so that could be a sign, too. SO, he said lets take out some fluid...in 4 weeks, we'll move up my one-year "esophogram" - you know, the little xray to see how things look...and said, if things are not improved by then, it could mean the band has shifted some, and then we'll have to work from there. HOWEVER, I am happy to say that l already can tell a difference! I came home, fixed a Protein Shake and had no problems getting it down!!! TALK ABOUT RELIEF...oh man. Can't tell you the last time it just went so smoothly! The worry, FOR ME, is not losing because now I can actually EAT. I only lost 4 lbs in the past 6 weeks...yes, its a loss, but I was really hoping I could nail 1-lb-per-week...but no. The other thing about this craziness, is what he calls "Mal-adaptive" behaviors = eating what works even if its bad = ICE CREAM. I can make a malt and down it in 5 minutes. No brain-freeze!! My dad can eat ice cream like that, too! ha But it just means I am eating non-nutritional foods which has LOTS of implications...and we don't want that. So, today, I'm to stay on my shakes, then tomorrow SLOWLY try softs, then after that, try some soft meats/proteins. Same plan as if I'd gotten a fill. I just worry that I'll have so much fun eating that I will put ON weight...so I must keep that in mind. ANyway, thought I'd let you all know where I am today. I just cannot get over how much better I feel already. Maybe its just hopeful that now I can actually EAT and at least sort-of enjoy it!! Up till now, I've dreaded a meal, knowing I won't be able to get it down.... That is all!! Have a great week! Kim