Maurice

Let's see; the issues are many. I was very active as a professional athlete, and burned off everything I ate and drank. When I retired, I continued to eat as always, but couldn't burn it off. Then my knees turned arthritic, so I really had no excercise. But I kept eating. My eating habits were also horrid, including large bites, insufficient chewing, eating too fast and leaving nothing on my plate. I worked in Vegas hotels Food & Beverage Depts. where the food was fantastic, free and plenty. So, after yo-yoing for years and years, I finally put up the white flag (which in retrospect was a bit late and not as embarrassing as I thought it would be). The banding was the best thing to happen to me in ages. I've had both knees replaced, lost 90 lbs. (maintaining for the past eight months), and am playing hockey with guys half my age. The bestest part is keeping up with my 3 1/2 year old son! Never would've happened without the band. My best recommendation to anyone pondering this issue; I'd do it again in a heartbeat!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

You guys are a wonderful support system! I can't add much since I was really blessed to have encountered zero health issues. However, I did have remorseful periods through the first six months,until I was able to accept a serious lifestyle change. Of course, see some dramatic results certainly helps. Listen to those that have walked where you're walking. Maurice

:bandit I'm the G.M. of a Community Center in a small Minnesota town. It has a fitness center that I never used for five years, until the banding. I've been able to use my 90 lb. loss to encourage others. I know I should've been a better "poster boy" for fitness over the bigger years, but at the end of the day it's still performance that matters in the work-place. Get out and go get em!

All I can add is that in this day in age, your coworkers will react with the same outrage as we have. I would be surprised if you aren't greatly supported more than ever.

This is a rather courious heading.... If it's a question; yes and even moreso with the increased energy of not having hauled the extra weight around all day. Also moreso because the visual has also improved. If this isn't a question; 'sorry about letting out more than you probably wanted to know....

I think it's been pretty well put on this thread. I could only add that maybe you could hold it all up in prayer for the wisdom and strength to follow through with whatever you decide that the Lord has in mind for you. You have plenty of time as no date has been set. I suspect after your banding and subsequent weight loss he may expedite his marital plans in order to lock you in.

We receive one card from the Medical Center that includes this statement: "We are requesting that if you have a senior and/or childrens menu, that you would allow our patient to order from one of those since they are unable to consume large portions of food". We also receive the I.D. card from INAMED that has a graphicictire of an installed band on it. I choose to use the card from the medical center, and have only had to pull it out once.

I was waking 72 times per hour according to my sleep study. I'm now down 85 lbs., and have gotten off of the CPAP

My port protrudes quite noticably. I've been told that my fat does not lie in the skin, but deeper. They are now using a lower profile port, and again, I'm told that it would be simple to replace it. I think I'll wait. 'down 85 lbs.: 15 to go!

I've also been away for awhile. I'm looking forward to reading up on the "family" news. Thanks for keeping this great site alive

I love this thread (misery enjoys company...). It's great to see what others are eating in our quest for wellness. Please keep the menus coming!

Beakfast: 2 cups black coffee 8 oz.of egg-bake w/sausage and salsa Mid-morning: 1 Atkins Protein Shake Lunch: 1 cup of chicken-salad w/ mayo and a tsp of roasted pepers Supper will be a low carb T-V Dinner, and cottage cheese. Evening snack will be BBQ pork rinds w/ranch and dressing low carb ice cream. Crystal Light through the day.

I use cheese, BBQ Pork Rinds with veggie cream cheese, some peanuts, or chicken or tuna salad. Low carb ice cream and popcycles help. Crystal Light (Walmart's version) or Atkin's Shakes. Much else triggers a real feeding frenzie of naughty stuff.....