mare5569

would the 18 or 19th work for more people let me know. vote for 12,18 or 19th. Mare

Well, I stopped taking all meds and really haven't had much problems. However, I went in Thursday to Dr. K's. Tom wanted to recal how much Fluid I actually had in my band. Nothing came out except a few drops, should have been more. So they said I need to have an upper GI Series done. Talk about freaking out. I do not want to loose my band. Of course I think of the worst case. But I just read all the posts about slippage and they aren't very positive. I have not had restriction in several months because we had taken so much out. and I have gained weight and can't control my appetite. I really appreciate the band and I want my restriction back. Fortunately I was able to schedule the procedure Monday morn. I don't know about you all but I hate procedures. Never had an upper GI, at least I don't have to do the cleansing like for colon. So needless to say I am depressed, and ice cream is going down way too easy. my comfort food of choice. I will keep you all posted. Dee and John I am so sorry I missed you at the picnic. I really really wanted to see you. Does anyone want to do a Red Robin on the 12th? Or is there a better date? I have dog class on Wed til 7pm and another meeting on Thursdays, but I am willing to coordinate now that Dynamo is off in LALA land. Marilyn

I was in to Dr. K's with a friend yesterday and he said there would be over 100 people. Sure hope we can figure out a way to all meet up so I can put names with faces. Anita, way to go with the new jeans, size 14 is half of what you were. Last time I saw you you were getting skinny. Now i know you will be soon. Don't turn side ways or you will disappear. See you guys at the picnic bbq Mare

Wow, so much has happened since I was last logged on. Dee, I did not recognize you in the last picture I saw. This last month has been worse than the previous months. I have about no fill due to the acid reflux and I am still in big trouble. My general practioner up my Prilosec to 40mg and Maalox 4 times a day. What a mess. Then nothing would digest and I had so much gas pain, I was living on GAS-X. Finally, 2 days ago, I was so fed up that I just stopped all the meds cold turkey. The gas pain has lessened to almost nothing. Maybe one Gas-x per day, and I feel so much better. The acid reflux hasn't started back yet, but it took 4 days last time I tried to go off, so I hope I will be OK. An old friend of my mothers told me to try, 1 Tbsp of fresh lemon juice in a cup of Hot water first thing in the morning. Seems counter intuitive, but so far I feel better. You know sometimes, you feel so deperate that you will try anything. Needless to say with no fill, I am not losing weight. But I have been so afraid that the band was causing my acid reflux, that I was having trouble making good decisions. Since the acid reflux continued even with no fill, I have decided ( no data) that it is not my band. ( or at least I am thinking positive). I don't know about you all but the thought of having to give up my band is down right frightening. Who is going to the picnic this weekend? Mare

Wow, I have missed this group. So Many new people and faces. It took me several days to kinda get caught up. I survived tax season, I am an accountant that does only tax. However, because of tension at work I had more than 1cc taken out of my band. Things weren't going trough at all and I was misearable. It is amazing how much difference 1 cc makes. I gained over 12 lbs in 1 month. What a mess. Plus I was having acid reflux so bad I would wake up choking, worse than before I had the band. It was a mess. Finally, have my acid reflux under control. I have been taking Prilosec for 2 months. I am now 1 week off and the heartburn hasn't come back. I hope it is gone, I don't want to keep taking meds. I have had two small (.1) fills and have lost 5 of those 12 lbs. I can't tell you how awful it was to have to add weight back to my ticker. Very motivating to see it start going down again. Then the first of May my female dog Fergie got sick. Took her to the vet on Thurs. am and she died in my arms that night. I know many of you are dog lovers so you understand that even though its been a month, I can hardly see the keyboard through my tears. The really bad thing is that she died from rat poison. I think I didn't get all of it out from under my sink and she got it. Talk about guilt. No lets not. It is so hard to write on this site when I feel so negative, but if any people in the world understand, I know you guys do. I am looking into getting another dog, I am not going to get another Border Terrier right now, because the breeder I really like don't have any good bitches. My husband stated that it is his turn to pick the dog and he wants a big one who can go hiking and canoeing with him. I am looking at Labradoodles, since they are a hybrid and not AKC, I wouldn't have to show them (which I HATE). However, believe it or not to get a good multigenerational Labradoodle, Not just a cross betweern a poodle and any lab it costs BIG bucks. My list of pros and cons for the Labradoodle vs a Portugese Water Dog is longer than my arm. I have to make a decision this weekend. Sometimes a pro and con list doesn't help if it gets too long. I went to costco and got some of their yummy chicken salad and a new one they were serving that has cranberries in it. Yum! I also bought one of their meatloafs. I got another small fill Thurs. and I am starting to feel some restriction again. O how I wish RR was this coming week, or that I had go back on the lapband site last week. I need you guys. I was going to put in a picture of my dogs but the brain can't remember how. So maybe its better I can't. Love you guys Mare

Sorry, I have been MIA (missing in Action). Took me awhile to catch up on 13 weeks of posts. As some of you know, I am a tax accountant. I complete almost 400 tax returns during the 13 week season I work. So I have been a bit busy. What is the hardest for me during tax season, is being so exhausted from being up and efficient ALL day long. I don't get breaks, my choice. I work on commission only. So I need to complete as many returns as possible during the tax season, so I don't have to work the rest of the year. Finding a balance between having a life and having money for the rest of the year is just too difficult for me, I need to get a better handle on it. One thing I have discovered about my eating, is that stress makes my stomach hurt. When my stomach hurts, I eat. Prefferably sweets, because they give me instant energy and seems to help my stomach. Life with the lapband and stress has been an interesting journey. My band TIGHTENS up with stress. I don't understand the reasons, but it DOES. some days I can only get down Water. some days Protein shakes and some days anything. I have had two unfills trying to help with the problem. still not a good situation. Now, I have developed acid reflux. UGLY! Finally went to walmart and just kept opening boxes of stuff and trying them until something worked. I am now taking Prilosec for 14 days and filling in with Pepcid when I need help. One thing I can say, I have lost weight!!!!! I can't recommend my path, but a pound lost is a pound lost. I only have two weeks left to work. I am booked every hour of those two weeks, which is good for the budget. I am PROUD that I scheduled off an hour for lunch every day. I have so missed all of you. Reading some of your posts brought tears to my eyes. I am not going to mentions specific people because I might forget someone, and I hate it when I am left out of a list by accident. Just know that, you are all my heroes and I can't wait to be able to get back in control of my life. I see you are meeting April 9. That is my birthday, so I don't know what I will be doing. If my husband is working I will think about trying to come, depending on when I get out of work. So many last minute crises. It is amazing how alone the lapband world can be when you aren't connected regularily with the group. Every social occassion centers around food. Well I am craving ice cream, not a good thing. My weight loss has been great, almost 60 lbs. My goal is less than 25 lbs away. Didn't think I would ever weigh less than 160. I know for those of you starting at a higher weight that my numbers make you snicker, but for me they are major mile stones. I am actually giving away clothes I will never wear again. I had to seam up the back of some pants so I had something to wear to work that wasn't falling off. The Lap band has saved my life. For the first tax season in years, I haven't gained 10-15 lbs and kept it on to be added to year after year. Missing you all Marilyn

LA - I think we all freaked out just a bit. If you go back and read some of our posts right before surgery you will see very similar thoughts. I even ask Dr. K right before surgery if it was too late to change my mind. It is a big, expensive decision, but one that none of us are sorry we made, except when the band won't let us eat like we want too. Hang in there, you will make it. Mare 5569

Dynamo - so glad Todd is up and running around. Sure hope they can determine what is going on. My unfill is going OK. I am toying with maybe needing more out. But I had no bp's today. So I am excited about that. I still don't feel 100%, hope to get rid of this crud. Dee I am praying for you. Love Mare 5569

Sunshine - Call Dr. K and ask. There is probably nothing wrong but you need to ask his office. We support you and give you hugs, but call Monday am. OK??? Mare 5569

Well work is again stressful. My manager thinks he is so funny with his putdowns etc. Anyway another day, another dollar. However, I have been very tight since my last fill. I loved being tight and lost weight etc. But it took time to do everything very slowly including drinking. Well I have tightened even more with stress from going back to work. I called and I am having an unfill tomorrow am. I had to take off work but I took the appointment. I am sitting here having trouble getting down protein shakes. I know it is too tight, but I am so afraid that it will then be too loose. I know I can always add, but do some of you get tired of constantly being concerned about your band and whether you are going to BP. Marilyn

Red Robin List (copy and past) Going to be there: Dynamo (Michelle) Tied2BFit (Dee) Mal Marilyn (I HOPE) Well I can't seem to beat this bug. between the chest cold and tummy upset, I am worn out and cranky. I have been staying home from work I feel so weak. I know it will get better, but I am ready. Water and food still taste funny. everything beside liquids pb's. So since I am such a mess and did I mention CRANKY, I haven't posted. However, Dee, You can do IT!!!!!!! I thought the waiting would never end and now you have had to do it several times. I am really impressed with you girl. Hope I can come to RR and give you encouragement. You are so sweet, awesome, pretty and such a great all around person. So kick that depression right back where it belongs. "This too will pass" You go girl!!! Dyna - where did you put those good things to eat, I want them and you only live a couple of miles, i will eat them for you and save you from temptation. that is what good band buddies do for each other, RIGHT!!!! So bring it on, nothing much stays down so I should be able to eat and return with no weight gain. I think I am loopy, maybe aother protein shake, then bed.

LA The problem was that it wasn't able to get out. I would have loved to vomit, yes that is good. However, the band blocked the vomit from getting to my mouth. Incredible pain and retching, but it was no able to get out.

Oh Woofay I have been right in there with you. Woke up at 1am this morning feeling nausea. It got worse and I tried to vomit. I wouldn't happen. Just dry heaves, Nothing was getting back up through the band. I used two of the anti-nausea supporities. Still lots of wretching with nothing making it past the band. Fortunately, I had bought some anti-nausea liquid at walmart. Made a big difference, at least the combo stopped the drive heaves. I highly recommend having some on hand. Still not holding anything down but some juice, but I know there is hope. Just wanted to tell everyone of my experience. The suppostories helped but not as much as I expected. Left with a terrible dry mouth. Know it is a gross subject, but I am sure glad I was prepared. Can't wait til it passes. Marilyn

Merry Christmas!! I am really thankful for the lapband today. But.....I sure kept trying to push the boundaries. I just couldn't talk the lapband into letting me eat more. It seems like a couple of BP's would help, but I kept pushing, just one more piece of fudge. Boy was I uncomfortable. Then about the time I was feeling better, I would go and get another piece. Old habits are dead yet, but at least it was one piece at a time instead of 6 pieces every half hour. You know snow is wonderful when it is falling outside, as long as I am inside with no place I have to go. God bless Mare

Welcome all the newbies and hi to all the oldies. I'm back but probably not posting too much yet. LA you ask about keeping it quiet. I have told very few people. I started out telling only one friend and my immediate family. I have added people as it seems safe. Alot of people, just don't understand why we can't "just loose the weight" or "stop eating so much"etc. I didn't want people to watch what I eat etc, after surgery. To quote Drews (another person on this board) " I didn't get the band to be on a diet" My philosophy is that I can always tell people, but once they know I can't take it back. Mal - what an incredibly painful experience for your son. It will be life changing, hopefully in a good way. Michelle- have fun on your trip Dee - You are such an inspiration, keep up the good work and the end of Jan will be here soon. Anita - Have a wonderful Christmas, enjoy those kids, for tomorrow they will be parents. Marilyn

I got the medical alert bracelet from Medical ID Alert Bracelets and Designer Medical Jewelry at HAH Originals. the wording I used was "NO NG tube without scope". I am sure there are other wording choices. Hopes this helps those last night who were interested.

Several of you were interested in the yaktrax I use over my shoes to keep from falling. I got them from Sierra Trading Post. . Here is a descripYaktrax Walker Pull-On Ice Traction (For Men and Women) (99) Asst larger view zoom Alternate View Retail Price: $19.99 Our Price: $9.95 You Save: $10.04 (50%) Item #97358 View all items from Yaktrax (7 reviews) Rate this product Available Colors: Click to preview 99 Product Information 7 Customer Reviews Yaktrax Walker Pull-On Ice Traction (For Men and Women) $9.95 $19.99 Save 50% Item #97358 Closeouts.Yaktrax innovative Walker pull-on ice traction grips add safety to help eliminate wintery slips, slides and falls. 1.2 mm steel coils dig into ice and packed snow Easily slip onto boots or shoes Includes carry bag Weight: 4.8 oz. Closeouts. China. Size: S(W 6½-10, M 5-8½) M(W 10½-12½, M 9-11) L(W 13-15, M 11½-13½) tion.

Preop is pretty simple. Fill out some forms, listen to Dr. K explain everything, make sure you have your meds already. no exam etc.

Sign up for Red Robin Dynamo Mal Drews VABandster Bookholder Dee Mare5569 Hey Mal that made my feel really special that you noticed I had been gone from the board. THANKS!!! Christmas is a hard time for me. Lots of JUNK from childhood, and lots of broken (smashed dreams)etc. I am doing OK. I really need to concentrate on the Reason for the Season, Christs birth celebration. I will get there. Hey Dee! If I can get off my butt tomorrow, I am planning on meeting you before your surgery. I had planned it as a surprise, so you wouldn't be alone, However, with Natalie there, you will have company. I am still planning on coming at least before surgery for some prayer time, if that is still OK. I can't believe how fast the time has gone since we first met you. Something I am noticing, if I don't drink enough water between meals, my band it too tight. I am gonna have to pay attention for a couple of weeks to see if it is really true, but so far it appears to be.

Thanks for all the hugs and encouragements about my band. I am doing better today. Just finished some chicken salad from Costco, went down with no problems. Yeah!!! My counselor has started calling my band, "my companion", it there to remind me of decisions I have made about my health. I like the idea of a companion, even though yesterday the "shock collar" was a better description. You guys are great. Nice to meet bookholder. we were seven strong last night and talked for 2 hours. As Mal said we solved all problems of the world and then some.

Yes, Mare is still coming tonight. I am not liking my band today. I am tired of being good and tired of the golf ball and tired of not being able to eat a scrambled egg before it gets ice cold. I think that the reality is being checked again. I can't do what I did before and still loose weight. BUT I WANT TO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am tired of thinking about what I am eating. I agree with Drew, I didn't get banded to be on a constant diet. Now I just wish I didn't have to plan everything around my stupid band. Ok enough ranting, I know I am just being immature, and wanting my cake and loosing weight too. but I feel cranky about my cold eggs. Mare

ARe you allowed to have Protein drinks? Popscicles etc. Liquid diets are hard but if you give us your guidelines we might be able to make some suggestions to help you succeed.

Want2bmeagain - I wish you were going to be here for RR. I so enjoyed meeting you. If we set up a specific time each month would that help you participate. I know it is quite a drive, but ..... Anyhow, Please anyone on either list please feel free to join us at Red Robin on Tues, Nov 13 at 7pm. Let me know if you are coming and I will keep a look out for you. I know the first time is hard. I didn't know anyone, but the gatherings really help me adjust and to compare notes about what is normal etc. Everyone is very friendly and cordial. Nicknaknut - glad you will be there, Haven't heard much from you since the night before your surgery. Glad all is going well.

Well lunch crowd, I emailed Lapdancer and have received no reply. I say we give her til 11:30 and if we don't hear, just plan on Tues night. What does everyone else think

Well we haven't heard from Lapdancer. Don't know what is going on about lunch. Mare5569