Songstress

Hi There, I just saw your posting. I make $40,000 a year and I'm single with no kids. I bring home 2,400 a month and that's after taxes and a hefty retirement taken out. So, just to let you know what your take home will probably be. I got banded in Mexico and took out a surgery loan for $7000. Because my credit wasn't the best I pay $250 a month. I also pay on my student loans--$150 a month for a 33,000 loan (the financial aide people make you think that your payments arent a big deal, but they are!) So, that's my story! I don't regret doing the surgery because I was so miserable before...worrying about my weight constantly. But I am stuck in a job I really dont care for until the debt is paid off--so that kind of stinks....but, it's just a matter of what will make you happy and you are so young--you will pay off that debt and be comfortable with your body while still in your twenties which is super cool. Feel free to email with any more questions!

Jef, Oh my god, I've been hungry since I woke up from surgery 10 days ago. I was freaking out about it for days until about two days ago when I started eating thicker Soups (still liquid) that seemed to help curb the hunger. I would not worry about calorie counting right now---you have enough to worry about. Just drink as much as you can to get through the hunger pains. I'm waiting until the first fill, to start my serious calorie counting.

Hi, Thanks for writing. I'm so sorry to hear that you had to be in the hospital a week with an infection like that. I'm so sympathetic right now with people who have complications and have to face a few more challenges than the typical bandster! I'm also relieved to hear that you, too, have experienced hunger! It's like my body is seriously angry with me for not feeding it anythign it wants when it wants it! I keep patting my belly and telling it that its gonna be okay. That seems to help actually! Also, now that I'm on full liquids and eating er drinking soups for my meals, the hunger has gone down a bit. It's not as intense as it was for the first 5 days. My body has reacted so sensitively to this surgery, it has surprised me for sure. THe good outcome of it though, is that I'm more respectful and loving with my body and taking it slow, and listening to what it wants and needs, instead of letting my mind take over and navigate everything. Now, my body is more at the forefront of decision- making and my mind is having to adapt! Wow! What a journey already and it's only day 10 ! Keep in touch and take care and I'll see you at the support groups Sarah

Penny, I really liked your introduction paragraphs. I just wanted to introduce myself to you: I'm Sarah and I just got banded on July 18th. I'm interested in all of the things you are interested in (books, politics, travel, movies, music) but probably a bit more neurotic! I live in Boulder, CO which is a very skinny, liberal, health concious town. It tries to be a calming environment but I still manage to work myself into to a tizzy! Since the banding on Friday in Mexico (that's another story), I've been pretty anxious, hungry, and obsessively reading blogs, posts, and trying to decifer through all of the mixed advice. I know though, that ultimately, it's so individual and my body will do what it's going to do. But, I can't seem to get completely excited about this journey until I know that by body is healed from the surgery and everythign is okay. Do you feel that way. I want to be excited--- I really do, but the 'realist inside of me' keeps being skeptical and protective. Anyway, I'd love to be email buddies if you have room for more! Thanks and best of luck with your band! S

Hi There, Newly banded in Mexico (last Friday) desperately seeking Mexico friendly aftercare! Any advice? Thanks so much, Sarah

Great! That sounds wonderful for you...I now envy everyone who gets banded in the US!

Thanks so much Dee! I would love to come to Red Robin's, just let me know of the time and place. Right now I'm researching aftercare for myself. There's FILLCENTER USA but they seem pretty expensive. I will try to call Dr. Kirshenbaum to see if he will serve Mexico patients. Thanks so much for your support-- it means the world to me right now in this very scary time in my life!!

Hi Lovely Bandsters in Colorado! I'm 29 years old and living here in Beautiful Boulder recovering from a very tough surgery in Mexico on the 18th of July. I'm confused about instructions for evrything--the Mexico doctor says one thing, the blogs and the American doctors say another thing! I'm still on Clear liquids which I'm assuming is right for day 4, but then I hear people on full liquids at this stage. I'm absolutely NOT a complainer but I just feel very vulnerable about this band--I guess because my time with the doctor was so brief and I have no idea where to go for my after care here in Colorado--I feel all alone!!! :smile2:My pain is getting better today but I've had bad hunger pangs from day one--haven't seen anyone struggle with that here. Anyway, I would love to be involved with whatever you guys plan in Colorado for support because I feel really isolated right now because I don't know anyone with the band and I got mine in mexico for financial reasons. I know I will be better in a couple of days I'm sure....until then, I will be trying to get into a good space with good thoughts! Thanks for your support!!:eek: Songstress Sarah