laura-loo

I'm in the UK, been up all night watching history in the making. America got it right! I'm british yet I feel so proud. What a night! Laura

I went to Belgium for my op, the cost at the time was around £2500. My beloved Dad had passed away 18 months before and had left me some money. I decided the best gift to myself and my dad was to spend some of it on the banding op. The way I was going it was life-saving for me. I went to my GP to discuss my options and even though I met criteria to get banded on the NHS I was looking at a 2 year wait minimum and once I had made the decision to go ahead I just wanted to do it. Good luck with it all. Laura x

She looks amazing. Good for her and all of them regardless of how they did it Laura x

It must be dependant on where you live, I am in the uk and have been advised to use a straw as was told this way you take smaller sips rather than gulping. I suppose you just have to go with the advice you are given personally. Laura x

For me its a burning pain in the roof of my mouth, if I eat one mouthful more I'll pb. I've yet to come accross another bandster who gets this. Laura x

Hiya hun, Not doing too badly yourself!!! Well done. Laura x

Hiya, I'm Laura and live in Colchester, Essex. I was banded last July in Belgium.

Hi Saggij, The site is www.wlsinfoforums.org.uk. It has about 7,000 members but not all banders but a mixture of band, bypass and ds. I find it a really great site and very informative. It isin't free though and costs £15 per year, well worth it in my opinion. Take care hun Laura x

My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. I am so terribly sorry for your loss. God bless

I haven't noticed a big change in my food shopping bill but the amount I save not eating out all the time or buying takeaways is unbelievable! Laura x

Hi Pilko, I think many people find that they feel little restriction after 1 fill, more even, so don't worry. I had none at all after my 1st fill, on the second it really kicked in and then had a small tweak of a third fill which is where I am now. I am quite restricted and tight but I like it like that. You will get there hun Laura x

Although I was banded by a different surgeon (Dr Focquet) I have nothing but praise for him, the belgian hospital and the belgian staff. The whole experience for me has been very positive. Obviously it is a worry going abroad, and I had my fair share of pre-op jitters but if I had my time again I would do exactly the same. Good luck with whatever you decide Laura x