Ruthie G

Hi all. I'm from New Jersey and was banded back in 2006. I've been divorced since 2005 and work as an Executive Assistant. I lost 100 lbs and look fabulous (just like I did in High School)! Looking to meet my future soulmate again. Best, Ruthie

Just not motivated anymore.... Hi everyone. My peak weight was 260 and I am now hovering between 154-159. I walk 5x/week to the office (15 blocks each way). So, at least I'm getting in my exercise. I would like to lose at least 20 more pounds, but I am so unmotivated. I can only eat a few bites during the day because the band is so tight in the morning. My doctor said this is fine. But most of my eating is done at night. I'm considering another fill so the night eating won't be so extreme. I'm currently at 7.5 in a 10cc band.

Please confirm that stress tightens the band. I had my last fill back in March '09 (7.5 cc in a 10 cc band). I had also lost my job in March. The weight didn't come off right away. I had days when I ate well, but as the months passed, my appetite and ability to eat well have decreased. I can only eat a few bites of food and then feel like PB'ing. Sometimes I catch it, sometimes I don't. I have a Protein shake for Breakfast (usually takes about 3 hours to drink 10 oz). Sometimes, I'll have a Yoplait "Whips" yogurt, which is "light as air" and it takes me about 1 hour to finish. I'll have broiled fish for dinner, but can only eat a few bites with a couple of tbsp mashed potatoes. My mouth starts to fill up with saliva, which is usually an indication that the band is tight, or I am too full, but this didn't happen to me when I had my last fill in March - only for the past 3-4 months or so. I told my doctor that some days I eat well, and some days I can only eat crackers. He said this is normal. Any advice?

I've been there and I feel your pain! Maybe your doctor could fill you up 1/2 cc at a time as you make progress. You shouldn't be throwing everything up, nor should you be overeating. Everyone's band feels different. Hope this helps. Ruthie

I can't believe those are your "before and after" photos. What a transformation! Even though you're not 100% happy with your body, it's got to be better than before. I do feel your pain, though. I have a lot of lower belly fat. I look like an 80 year old woman! I realize that a tummy tuck is the only thing that's going to make my happy, psychologically, but for the present time, a spandex cami will solve the problem. Unfortunately, every person's body is shaped differently. It's in our genes. As you continue your weight loss, you'll probably learn to love your body. My problem is that I'm finally down to 160 lbs., but I lost all motivation. I would love to go down to 130, but I still pick on bad foods. Walking has really helped keep the weight off. I would love some motivational tips to help me "cross the finish line". All the best, Ruthie