kimberly6671

Hey, I'm happy for anyone that can lose weight on their own and I don't really take it personally - we all have our issues and I don't see the shame in getting help for anything if you need it - counseling, support meetings, medication or weight loss surgery. It's just a tool - I'm still doing the work!!

Cindy - Congratulations on your excellent choice of surgeons! Dr. Billy banded me on 12-22-05 in Tahoe and I cannot say enough about him. I also have Blue Shield and was told that banding simply is not covered at all.....but maybe you have Blue Cross?? I actually went to Dr. Billy before I discussed getting the band with my general doctor. He will tell you everything that you need to do - the dietician, therapist, stress test, etc. The prescription for blood tests can be taken to any lab. The only thing my general doctor did was the stress test and the final clearance for surgery. But you are in good hands...Dr. Billy is so knowledgeable and caring. I'll be seeing him January 28...maybe for a fill, we'll see. Good luck! Kim

Jen - I have been banded since 12-22 and would definitely do it again (but I'm new!). A few years ago I did Body for Life and absolutely loved it and I looked the best I have ever looked. But my problem has ALWAYS been keeping it off, so hence the decision to be banded. But I think the principles I still follow, the small meals throughout the day and the carbs/protein, portion size, etc. Still trying to get those workouts in, though...Kim

Might you have some form of arthritis? Sure sounds like it to me. You should consult with a rheumatologist.

I'm so happy that you went to Dr. Billy. He's my surgeon and I wouldn't go to anyone else! He's as knowledgeable as they come and you are in excellent hands. Concentrate on healing and continue on with your journey - Good luck. Kim

Well, it looks like I'm in the minority here, but I say Biggest Loser, baby! I would LOVE to go on that show. What an opportunity to change your life! Traveling is awesome, no doubt, but you come back to the life you left.... But having said that, what about the possibility of having your calls routed to your cell phone when you're gone and IF they call, hop on a plane!? Two great options, if you ask me....good luck!

Thanks! I reviewed my list and eggs are okay (because they can be mushed with a fork), but I'm not supposed to have bread/toast for another two weeks! Yikes. No more!

I'm brand new, only been banded since December 23 and had my first slime episode. I was looking forward to my first day of mushies and cooked some scrambled eggs and toast, but it came right back up....I have been a model patient, thought I was doing everything right, no problems and now this. I hope I haven't done any damage. I think I ate too fast and have definitely learned THAT lesson. Any suggestions? Kim

Hi - my name is Kim and would echo Penni's sentiment on Dr. Billy. I was banded 7 days ago by Dr. Billy through his Tahoe office. I think he is extremely knowledgeable and has a great reputation. It would have been closer for me to go to someone in Sacramento, but I felt so comfortable with him that to travel a teensy bit farther was a small sacrifice. Good luck!

I just got banded on Thursday, 12-23 and was on liquids for Christmas...oh, well. It is well worth it. My doctor has me on full liquids (anything through a straw) until January 4. Then I can have mushies (mashed potatoes, etc) for I think 10 days or so before graduating to food. PLEASE follow doctor's advice as this early stage is so critical to the healing of the stomach and the band in place. She should be getting 40 grams of protein (I use shakes) and 64 ounces of water. What about sugar free popsicles or creamed soup? Those are good. But remember, she must have at least 40 grams of protein. Good luck! Kim

Welcome Andrea! I am also a 46 F (single) mother of three, two in college & one at home, and am giving myself the lapband for Christmas TOMORROW!! So no prime rib for me as I will be on liquids, but what a way to start 2006. I don't quite have any advice for you yet, but give me a couple days....Merry Christmas! Kim

Well, I guess I will admit to WANTING to be invisible because I'm so ashamed of what I have become. I live in a small town and people that have known me for a long time knew me as an outgoing, bubbly and (have been told at least!) very attractive. But as a result of a few setbacks in life, I have let myself go and now I know people are probably saying, "What the hell has she done to herself?!" and so until I can find my way back to myself I sort of want to be invisible. Does that make sense?