Great North

Hi Lucy, I was banded at the SWLC by Dr Chris Cobourn on March 19 2008. I weighed 221 the day of my consultation and today I weigh 169. Like you I tried all kinds of other weight loss programs. In most cases I could lose the weight but never could keep it off. You asked “would I do it again” in a minute..... “would I recommend the SWLC to my friends and family”? Yes for sure. My whole experience with the Dr’s, the nurses, the dietician and the office staff has been first rate. I also did a lot of research on the Lapband and contacted 2 clinics not far from my home. I read their websites and was able to go in the SWLC chat room. It was there where I was able to chat with people that were banded and some like me that were still gathering all the info that we could before making that final decision. The evening before my consultation with Dr Cobourn, he came into the chat room as he often does. I was able to ask him questions with others in the room. This to me was a good sign that the Dr wants to hear how his patients are doing and really cares even after the $16,000 is paid. If you do decide that the SWLC is for you I’m sure you won’t be disappointed. Oh.... I forgot to mention the “after care” It is never ending that’s for sure. Can you tell I know that I made the right choice to go to SWLC. I can’t talk about the other clinic for it took months for them to get back to me!!!! I was already banded by then. Good luck Great North

Hi Mansaw, Congrats on your new band! Lucky you even getting it paid for by your husbands heath care. I have a family member who lives in Alberta and is looking into getting banded but the cost has been the stumbling block. Could you tell me the name of your heath care provider? She may have the same one....never know. Again congrats

I have a Wii Fit but really haven't used it. I carry most of my weight on the upper half of my body. Will it help me lose inches there? And what program or exercise would help me the most. Thanks and happy Wii'ing

Alicia, The "sweet spot" is after when you recieve your fill you are able to eat a small amount of food and feel satisfied. I was losing weight slow and steady after each fill but now the pounds are fading away....it took me till my fourth fill to feel this way. Good lucy on your surgery and keep us up to date, Great North

Hello Carla G, I was banded on Mar 19th 08. I just had my fourth fill last Wed and I think I have finally reached that so called sweet spot. It's funny many ol banders have said that when you reach the sweet spot you will know.... and you know what " I did". You too will know soon. Good Luck in your weight lose, Great North

Sweetforlife, I am soooo happy for you! You have worked hard and it has paid off. Enjoy your new lease on life. I was banded on Mar 19th this year by Dr C and my loss is slow like most new banders. One day I hope to be where you are today. Keep up the good work. I saw you at the symposium....you looked great!

Hi I just watched the show.Thought it was very good. You wait........ Oprah is going to be banded.

I will be banded in the next few weeks. I have told no one other than my husband. I have discussed the topic with a few of my friends and family kind of as a matter of fact but never indicating that I was considering the band. They were all very negitave and could only say how unhealthy it is. All of these women have a lot more weight to lose than me. I may change my mind later when my weight loss is noticed but for now I don't need to have my every move watched and judged. I have the support of all the nice people here who understand what this is all about. Good luck on whatever decision you make.

I Just Read 2 People Stateing They Were The Youngest In Canada To Be Banded. Who Was It? Confused

I will be banded in the next couple of weeks at the SWLC in Mississauga. I too did as much research as possible. I found that Dr Colbourn's reputation is second to non. I felt very comfortable at my consultation with him ( no charge). I liked what I heard and saw at the clinic. The location in Mississauga was perfect for me. Just off the QEW and easy to get to. Go to their web site and check it out. You will be impressed. Good luck in you decision

Hello, Is this lunch open to all. I have not made the call for the consult yet. But I would like to talk to banders before making the call. Also are there any benefit companys that pay for the surgery? I have Green Shield. Are there conditions to be met?

I am very anxious as well. I just wish that Christmas was either 6 months earlier or 6 months later.... I think it will make the pre opp shakes easier to take and not too many family events at the time.

Hi Charliemac, I too see my physician next week. Dito on the apnea and high blood pressure. How much weight do you have to loose? I have about 70lbs to loose. By the way..... Good Luck!

Hello, I have not yet gone for my consult yet. Does anyone know if Green Shield will cover the cost of the surgery? Are there any guide lines to get it apporved. Thanks

Wow, we are all too hard on ourselves.... lets get possitive. Voodahbah you are doing great! I know that when the day comes for my band I can do the same. I still worry a bit about throwing up at the dinner table or having food come out my nose and that type of thing. Also I love green salads. I have heard that I may not be able to eat it after.... How are you handling it?

I too am tired of being fat! I am using this web site to get as much info as possible to help me make an informed decision. I have emailed a clinic in my area and will be calling to make the app for a concault next. (I have an app with my own Dr on Mon). I will be paying for my own as well. I plan not to tell anyone other than my husband about the band. I don't want to hear all the reasons why I should just diet and exercise...... if it was that easy than why am I still fat! I love this site. This is the first time that I have written anything on it but just from reading the comments of others I fell like I have a world of new friends out there. Soon to be a bander......