TedOB

Hi, I did the Beth Israel program and am happy I did. Can't say that I enjoyed all of it but they seem to know what they're doing. You may have some initial frustration with the pace of things, but once you get a fill that works it really changes your eating habits. I am 6 months out of surgery and am only now making some really good progress. Good luck.

Anyone over 50 in MA?

Well...seems to me that you are either taking bites that are too big or not being chewed enough. What you are feeling is not normal, it is the symptom of the food being stuck and your body is trying to either reject it or get it slimy enough to slide through. It also may mean your band is now too tight, or both. Ted

Kimberly...it isn't easy, but it is worth doing. I wish I had the surgery available to me at your age. It will give you a new life, the life you wish you were living. So, tough it out. Do a better job than me, I am having a tough time with my pre-surgery diet (Feb 12th for me). Just tell yourself how important it is, suck it up and do it. Let me know how you make out. Check in with SherryW, she's organizing a support group next door to you in Taunton. Good luck, Ted

SherryW....I also live in Taunton, I won't be banded until Feb 12th, but I'd like to join in on any support group that you might organize.

Anyone else being banded on February 12th? It would be interesting to compare notes with someone going on the same day. I'll be at Beth Israel Deaconess for mine.

I will be having it done at Beth Israel Deaconess, in just two weeks...at this point in the process, I can highly recommend them. Ask me again after Feb 12th.

I've been a guy for quite a few years now, so I am qualified to assert that big breasts don't mean a thing to me. I think they appeal primarily to immature needy mom-seeking men who want to be comforted and cared for. I have already been weaned. Do I like to have a couple of breasts available when I'm done kissing above the neck? Sure I do. But there are a number of other even more interesting female body parts. Interesting conversation, Ted

clock is ticking...Feb 12th will be here in no time...you've made great progress, and I've decided to stay clear of men's rooms, regardless

BigMarathoner, Funny coincidence, we're having a football party on Sunday too...it may well be my last meal, and I'm making a cassoulet. I'm also sorry to report that the Chargers are playing the Patriots, about 15 miles from my house. I'll be able to hear the cheers from here when the game is over. (well, maybe not, but the Pats will win) Ted

Stayed stoked Bonnie. I'm scheduled for Feb 12th. Anyone else having a hard time resisting that Last Great Meal? Ted

I'll be keeping an eye on all of my fellow Feb 2008er's. My surgery is Feb 12th, and I hope we're all here to Celebrate and complain with. Any one else from Massachusetts? Ted

I'm somewhat disappointed that there isn't more going on here in the Massachusetts board. I'm being banded on Feb 12th at BIDMC, and am wondering who else around here is in the same boat with me.

I must be spoiled in Massachusetts, flounder is pretty much the most available fish around here, and it is great no matter how you prepare it. Simplest? Dust with a little bit of flour, salt and pepper it, and saute in olive oil (butter if you're cheating). A little fancier? Squeeze some fresh lemon juices and add some small capers.

I'm convinced by what I've read here. There is nothing to be gained from wide disclosure.

I have made an absolute decision to keep it between myself and my wife. (I'll be banded on Feb 12). I have already told the lies at work. I've started my protein shake diet now so they won't be able to point out that I began drinking them after that "week I took off". Is it deceptive? Yes. Is it sleazy? No. I know I've been judged and discriminated against for years. I don't have any obligation to those who feel I am weak. I feel bad about not disclosing those I feel are friends, but even well meaning friends have their own weaknesses about secrets. I'll play it by ear, and if there are other points of view, I'm open to them. Ted

Well...as of today, I'm officially starting my pre-surgery diet. I had my last restaurant meal for god knows how long. The Christmas liquor is gone. No bread in the house. I don't eat sugary things, so the leftover candy doesn't bother me. Going to have to love my green vegetables. I like exercise, so it's not the issue. But the wide stance? Didn't know about it, I now have something else to fear.

Thank you, Sherry. I'm researching this like crazy, and preparing myself for a pre-surgery dieting blitz. We'll see how it goes. Pre-surgery appointment is January 28. Surgery February 12. I plan to be skiing this time next year.

I'll go see if I can find the Men's Room, but have always been wary of the guys who hang around in there.

OK, I'm just trying this out for the first time. Not quite sure yet how it works. I'm impressed that I have apparently joined the right club, I also think that BIDMC is great. Dr. Jones will be drilling a few holes in my belly in February and it's nice to hear that everyone has had good experiences with him. Any guys around here? Ted