Jimbo_WV

I started my pre-op liquids on April 14th and I'm 2 days from surgery on the 28th. The only "cheating" I've done was to use a different shake during this time rather than the one that the surgeon said to drink. He said to have 4 1/2 cans of Slim Fast High Protein. I don't really care for the taste and limited flavor selection. Occasionally, I have been having an Adkins shake instead. They have a little more fat than SFHP, but fewer calories and more protein. I've also had a few cups of fat free, low sodium broth...Just to have something that wasn't cold and sweet. I guess it's all working. I've lost 17 pounds since I went on pre-op liquids. As for the cravings. I haven't had the really crazy desires for "real food" since day 3 or 4. I've actually cooked out for my family on 3 occasions. Things I'm craving now are things that I'll be able to have when I get to "mushies"..Baked potatoes, FF refried Beans, etc. Take care & good luck to all! Jim

I haven't been banded, yet. I have my surgery this Tuesday (04/28/2009). But, when I was a nurse on a hospital's surgical unit we used to have patients rock in rocking chairs. This used to help release the air that accumulated during surgery. The rocking is in addition to doing whatever walking you can do. Take care, Jim

I'm being banded in less than a week (04/28/2009) and I want to start riding a bicycle for exercise, once I'm given the OK. I'm currently about 330 pounds. does anyone have an opinion on what brand/model bike would be good for a larger rider. It will mainly be used for in-town riding with some hills. I would also be cool if I could use it on some mild trails (rails-to-trails). I'm probably looking for a comfort or hybrid...But which one. As for price, I'd like to stay under $300, if possible. I know I'll for to check them out for myself, but I'd like to have some ideas as to what has worked for others in my situation. I appreciate any direction I can get! Take care, Jim

Hi Saundra, Thanks for the reply. Congrats on your fill. I'm already looking forward to my first one. I've completed 5 days of liquids and I think its getting easier. I appreciate the good words about Dr. Rossi. My PCP, who's also a life-long friend, recommended him highly. The gal in his office that I've been working with, Sara, has been super. Please keep in touch. I'd love to hear more about your "journey" Take care, Jim

Hi WV Banders, I'm get my Band on April 28th. My surgeon is Dr. Rossi and I'm having it done @CAMC Memorial. I'm on my 2 weeks of pre-op liquids, right now. I'll let you know how it goes. Take care, Jim

Thanks for the good wishes and photo, Steve. I'm on my 4th full day of liquids and I've been able to fight off the cravings. I've been walking almost every day during lunch. I walk at a pretty good pace for 30 mins, then come back to my office to "eat". 1 1/2 weeks until surgery and I'm ready for it to be here. I'm also anxious to see how much I've lost during the pre-op diet. Everyone take care and have a great weekend!

I'm being banded 04/28. I started my 2 week pre-op liquids today. Good luck everyone! Jim

Hello All, I just came from the Dr.'s office and I have my date. I'm getting my Lap Band on April 28. I'm feeling just about every emotion, right now. About me: I'm 47 and have been overweight all my life. Up until I was about age 40 I could keep up with my thinner friends. In the last few years it's gotten tougher and I knew it was time for action. Like most of you, I've lost hundreds of pounds in my life...Only to gain it back, plus some. My PCP, who is also a lifelong friend, brought up WLS over 2 years ago. I wasn't ready then. But, I'm now on a handful of pills and I'm tired of feeling lousy! So...I'm ready to start this new and exciting chapter in my life. I'll let you know how it goes. Take care and good luck to you! Jim

Hi Guys, I got word of my approval on Monday (04/06), I met with my surgeon on Tuesday (04/07), and I'm scheduled for surgery on Tuesday (04/28). I hope everyone is doing well. Take care, Jim

Thanks so much to Cathy and everyone else! I'm looking forward to my new life!

Hi Gang.... I got my approval from my insurance company (United Health Care) yesterday, saw my surgeon today, and I'm scheduled for LapBand on Tuesday, April 28th. I start full liquids on the 14th. Good luck to all! Jim