New Member from Northern Virginia

[novalady 0]

Hello my fellow lap banders!

This is my first time posting here. I just found out about this website from a woman I met in my doctor's waiting room last week. Let me introduce myself:

• I had surgery on 13 June 2007 at 8 a.m. (first surgery of the day). My surgery took place in Potomac Hospital in Woodbridge, VA. I only mention it to let you know how wonderful the experience was. Potomac Hospital recently renovated their surgical floor and all the rooms are private. What a luxury not having to listen to all the chatter from a roommate and her family and friends. The room included a huge bathroom and a sofa sleeper in case you wanted someone staying overnight.
  
• My doctor is Denis Halmi, and I couldn't ask for anyone more gentle, caring and patient-focused. I've experienced many surgeries throughout my life, and this lap band was the easiest. I was up and walking within an hour or so after being wheeled back to my room. There was almost no discomfort except for some gas pain in my left shoulder. I stayed overnight as directed by my doctor.
  
• To date, I have lost 40 pounds and am pleased with my progress. I need to lose about 45 more to reach goal. The weight came off easily in the beginning but has slowed considerably. I had my first and only fill on 30 July and go back for my second on 25 October. I took off two weeks from work to recover but probably only needed one. However, I enjoyed the extra time to relax, read and simply ejnoy the time away from the hectic lifestyle of working in the Washington, DC area.

I LOVE my lap band, and my only regret is that I waited so long. I look forward to meeting new friends here and sharing comments, questions and successes.

[5grnkidz 0]

Hey Novalady, I have not been banded yet but, I think that will be my only recgret also, I am 46 so I'm sure I have alot of life left in me.

[SarahDaken 0]

I just joined this website too! Your entry caught my eye because I also live in the DC area. I am a mommy of one, have a great husband and a great career as well. I live in Poolesville, MD and would love to hear from you. I don't have surgery scheduled yet, but I am hoping by February with Dr. Barry Greene. My name is Sarah, my email is hecandsarahsdesk@verizon.net. I hope to hear from you soon!

[ciaovito 0]

Hi, I just wanted to say that Dr. Halm is my Dr. also, and I like him alot. I was banded in March of 07, have lost 45 lbs, and am not happy about that. Things seem to be at a stand still. I will see him again next week and hope he can find a reason for this--like has the band slipped or anything. Good luck to you, and I like this site too.

[mumof2boys 71]

Welcome and congratulations on your success to date. I too live and work in the DC area. I live in Waldorf, MD and was banded in DC. Good luck on your journey.

[losingjusme 12]

hi, welcome to LBT.

unfortunately, the weight does slow down as you start getting closer and closer to goal... best of luck to you!

[band2008 0]

hey guys!! Do you know of any fill doctors in the DC, VA, MD area? Do you know how much they charge? (without insurance?) Thanks!!