CCBSTX

Better late than never! Wow, that's an incredible story as you had given up. I suppose that you had bitter disappointment that the band just didn't work for you. You are right, we do know our bodies better than some stranger who sees us for 15 minutes. Although, when you get a good doctor and work as a team then it's magic! Congrats!! Shawn

Traditional fare! A family member usually does the turkey, stuffing, and side dish. The rest of the family brings a side dish or dessert as well. That way, the host isnt' totally overwhelmed. It works out nicely. We do it buffet style. My Mom is hosting it the first time this year. It's really the first time, that I can remember, that she cooked Thanksgiving. I will eat a little bit of everything (no bread). Other than that, my eating has totally changed to normal portions that you see thin folks eat! My head still wants to pork out.. Shawn

Congrats on your incredible weight loss! You are back on track again and you must feel better about that...Take care. Shawn

Yes, I feel it is a personal decision. I also didn't like to talk about my weight, fat or thin. I am also a private person. If I felt, it would benefit the person then I would share. However, there has only been a few times, when I've done this. Too each their own. Shawn

Good ole standing is a great way to eat! However, I try to improve my posture and sit up straight, when I sit. Gravity sure does help! Shawn

I have a feeling once you're banded, this won't be a worry. You'll be concentrating on your recovery and eating very slowly and chewing very carefully. You may appreciate presentation more when you get to the solids. Other than a pretty bowl or small plates, there isn't much you can do with soup/oatmeal/etc. Shawn

I can do it slowly (flattened first). I don't enjoy it much, it's often uncomfotable to drink and doesn't taste as good as it once did. My surgeon says "no" as it tends to trigger food cravings. Shawn

I agree with Carlene. Remove the saline, work on yourself (with psychiatrist), and go from there. You are terribly frustrated and depressed, as I would be. It's horrible when you try to get something you REALLY want/need and then let down once you get it! Take care. Shawn

What goes around comes around! He'll get his due. You may never see it or hear about it, but guaranteed he will get his due! So sad for you, how sick people are...You handled this as well as you could. Shawn

Yes! I've had it pre-banding. Didn't have a cycle, at all, unless I took progesterone or birth control pills. One month, after banding, I've had a cycle (without fail) and this time no pills are involved. It's a miracle! Shawn

I had the same question pre-banding! I was worried about the vomiting thing as I tend to have a weak stomach and even get motion sickness. I've been banded over a year and had one issue w/motion sickness. Generally, on occasion it doesn't seem to be a problem. It's the excessive and forceful bouts as leatha g stated that seems to be the problem. Shawn

Good luck! As the others are saying recovery varies, but generally get some help for the first week (at least). I couldn't lift for the first 6 weeks, while I was healing (inside and out). Probably would be a good idea to limit that, however it won't be easy for you with (2) little ones. Just know that you will be lifting them soon enough, and they won't suffer during your recovery time (it will be a blip on their radar). Good luck. Shawn

Wow, it's amazing doing so well w/no problems and then bammm! Kinda weird that you had no problems before the study. Anyway, I agree with MissyC that a second opinion wouldn't hurt. Shawn

Until 13 I was kinda chunky. 13-20 considered slim. I gradually gained my weight...10 pounds a year. With a few diets in between, which helped me to gain more... I've never made fun of anyone in my life. Fat, skinny, race slurs, poor, etc. It was always a "turn off" to be around folks that thought they were better than others. It still is... Once I gained my highest weight, I never felt THAT overweight. I just felt bad that I couldn't keep up with my family and I was always tired. Personality wise I've remained the same throughout. Shawn

I am sure it gets difficult for you. Try to keep the bad food away from you, if possible. Easy access is just that TOO easy. Maybe sugar free stuff or drinks will help keep your mouth busy, during these emotional times. Of course, taking a walk, mediated and bathing are options, but as you said isn't easy to do during work... I do this also, emotional eating, as I am hardly ever hungry. Once I have the food (usually junk) around me, it seems I can't stop...until my band stops me. Take care. Shawn

Keri, congrats on losing and maintaining AND starting over again! It sounds like you are motivated and ready-to-go.. Shawn

I'm not sure if I am as serious of a binge eater as some, but I've done my fair share! I've always said, "thank goodness, I never picked up the smoking/drinking habit, as I've never would have quit." I feel that I just don't have it in me. Shawn

First, I admire the fact that you are doing the work that it takes to get yourself better. I feel the more that you don't avoid the surgeons, counselors, support group, and nutritionist the better you will do. When we are held accountable, it often keeps us on track (not perfect). You sound ready. Don't forget your support. Don't expect perfection, but stay on track. YOu are doing great. Shawn

I am glad that someone is taking care of you. It's very scary and frustrating to do something for your health and then get sick doing it! Keep updating!! Shawn

I feel that I am toned. Although, I do have looser skin than I like. Whether you end up w/flabby skin depends upon your genetics, how much weight you've lost, and possibly how fast. Muscle toned...skin alright! Shawn

I walk for my exercise. I am not into anything else as far as exercise goes. In fact, I just finished my walk. Shawn

If you aren't already, try fitday.com and log in your calories. Do this for a while to get a true reading on your calories in. This may help you. You should be able to eat real foods. Some may give you a bit of problems (bread, steak) but it depends on the person. Too tight of band, you will often end up eating junk and empty calories. Good luck. Shawn

Thank you for coming back and posting. It is always helpful to be an informed bandster. I wish you the best! Shawn

Newsho, I agree with you on why a surgeon would do a surgery that he doesn't "believe" in? Of course, it has everything to do with finances. I'm sure you must have some-kind-of-patience to go in that chat room and hear the misinformation and blatant grandstanding of RNY! I am a well-rounded bandster. I understand that we are fortunate to have choices in weight loss. I also understand that it is a battle that is hard fought. I support people in their weight loss battles. However, I have been privy to a weight loss "support" group full of RNY's that insisted that they were the only route to go....Some support. Shawn

Bobby, I know how easy it is to fall into our bad habits and not stick with the new habits! Grrr...lately, I've had a sweet tooth and I just need to knock it off... How many pounds to go until 205? Good luck. Shawn