SHAZ

Pink, It looks like you are exchanging one depression for another depression. Between the two, I would definitely choose being depressed after the band as I know things are gonna GET BETTER as in (loosing weight and cheering up). When I experienced the other depression, it was one that I knew would never get better - only worse. Believe us when we say everything is going to be good!!!!

LSasha, Welcome and good luck to you. You will find lots of support on this site. Many of the people are experienced bansters.

Kristen, I didn't feel anything when I was on liquids. However, when I went on solids I definitely felt restriction. Only, it didn't last too long before I needed another fill. Now I have very good restriction. This seems like a normal thing for most people. See what happens when you go on solids. Good Luck!

Norma, If you haven't had your band but a short time, you may find that those problems may subside or at least deminish in time. I myself dont't have a lot of discomfort or gas but compared to what I went through before the band, I am willing to deal with the small discomforts I may have from time to time. I do know this is not the case for everyone and I wish you the best in your decision.

Hi Kara, Looking forward to chatting with you (in the chat room). Welcome!!! You'll love it here!

I only told people who are very close to me - a couple of close friends and my family. I wouldn't dare tell my co-workers as I don't think they would be supportive ( I could be wrong). I'd rather not take the chance. I already have lots of support, including you guys whom I have become so close to.

Congrats and Welcome, Wendy!!!!! You're official now...

My heartfelt condolances go out to Blossom's loved ones. She was a joy to correspond with on this forum. Peace to all who mourn her.

Congrats and welcome!!!!

Jamie, It gets better FAST. I rested at my daughter's place for a couple of days, and felt great when I came back home. I was surprised how fast I felt better. Wishing you the same speedy recovery.

I must plant something that blossoms every year. I'm in a condo, so I will plant it on my balcony.

I did have a pain in that area shortly after surgery. But it felt more like a ripped stitch and was very painful. No one seemed to know what it was, including my doctor. All of my vitals were normal and I had no pain when eating. I had to "baby" it for a while but it seems to have healed up, mostly. I sometimes feel slight pain there. I was banded on 1-3-05.

LadyJoe, I don't think infection is something that happens a lot. Don't worry!!!

As a child I was a very light eater, in fact I didn't like ANYTHING. My mother would sprinkle sugar on my food in hopes that I would eat it. Even this didn't work all that well, but to this day I have a sugar addiction. I will pass up a beautiful steak with all the trimings for a big chunk of cake. Needless to say I am diabetic (on insulin). I mostly ate my sugary delights at night and I really miss them. I think the bottom line in my case as with most of us is emotional eating. Whenever I feel any emotion, good or bad, I get a desire to eat sugar (among other foods), and I eat until I can't eat anymore before I am satisfied. I can't say that I eat out of misery only since I eat just as much if something makes me joyful. When I overcome a challenge or make an accomplishment, even a small one, I feel I need to eat (to Celebrate???). Thank goodness for the band!!!

Diva, I hope you will feel better soon. Try resting and sipping on fluids. You need this time to concentrate on your new band. FEEL BETTER!!!

Corgi and Jamie, good luck on your surgery and write us when you feel better.

Janie, you're doing so well!!! Congrats on your weight loss!!! I can hardly wait to get into the onesies (smile).

Congrats Jamie!!! Let us hear from you (smile).

Hello Jan My doctor had me go on a liquid diet for ten days prior to surgery. I think most of us had to. I was told that shrinking the liver allows easier access to the stomach. I lost 21 lbs as a result. Go for it, everything sounds normal to me. Good Luck!!!

I had another fill yesterday as I wasn't getting any restriction, and Oh boy... Today I had mashed potatoes and a small piece of baked fish. It took a few minutes before I realized what was happening but there it was big as day. Yes, the slime came up twice(yuk!!!). I made it through the whole thing, slowed my eating and finished my meal. Success at Last!!!

China, Check a search engine and go from there. Maybe Dr. Horgan or the Wish Center. Good Luck - I know there is someone who will do it. Keep the faith!!! ( try Lap Band Chicago or Lap Band Illinois, something to that effect) The Best to You!!!

Dori, I think you have to delete the present ticker and do another one (???).

I don't have Health Alliance but as an Illinois girl I'm wishing you both the best. I think the insurance companies are finally gonna get with the program (fingers crossed).

Jennifer, I think the band was one of the best things I could ever do for myself. I'm still kind of new (banded 1-3-05) so I am still in the adjustment stage. I actually had my second fill on yesterday because I wasn't tight enough to restrict my eating. However, I can only say good things about my band. The 20+ lbs I lost pre-op have not returned and I know I am on my way to success. I think you're making a good choice getting the band. All the best to you!!!

Same here Pati-O. I had a fill (my first) on 2-18 and didn't lose anything. I was so frustrated, so I saw my MD who did another fill yesterday (3-15). I really hope it's tight enough this time. As of now, I am feeling more restriction. Hope it continues. Good luck on your next fill!!