Columbus Area

[Growingpanes 0]

Don't lose hope! I actually tried to get approved thru my insurance clear back in 2002/2003. Worked on it an entire year to finally go thru all the hoops, lose the weight, follow multiple diet programs, etc. The month I was approved was the month that my company/insurance disallowed coverage for any weight loss procedure or any associated costs. I have been told since then that my weight was solely due to my inability to follow a diet. Some people just don't get it. It may have taken me awhile, but I paid for the surgery out of my own pocket.

I was lucky enough to be released the same day of surgery and I headed home from Detroit that night. The best piece of advice I can give you is ... WALK at least once an hour - as much as you possibly can ... it doesn't have to be far, but get up and get moving. The more you move, the better your body will cope after surgery -- and it will help you get rid of the gas in your tummy.

I had my surgery done on a Wednesday .. and was back to work on Monday. My only mistake was trying to wear jeans the following Tuesday (opt for more comfortable clothing). You will notice that you feel tired as you walk, but that will gradually pass day by day - and before you know it, you'll be walking further and further.

Also - don't cheat on the post op diet ... stick to what they tell you to do. I have some friends that opted for Jeno's pizza Rolls in a blender ... Stick to simple foods .. it'll help you heal quicker in the long run.

Best of luck to you!

[SpecialK 22]

Juli - that is too funny about the Drivers License! I have to go get mine renewed today and I was going to still let them keep '200' on there as my weight...been faking it for a long time and don't plan to stop! Sounds like you were honest with your DL weight...not many are.

[HeatherA 1]

Stacy,

I was done at OSU. Dr. Mikami is my surgeon, Dr. Needleman is very nice.

The process is a long one, just jump through the hoops and you'll be recovering in no time.

Come meet us in February at Polaris Mall! It's the 9th at 2, (I think-Heather check me). We'd love to meet ya!

Yep! 2pm is the time... look for us in the seating area directly next to the Great Indoors entrance. Special K is bring a balloon and a poster so you'll easily be able to spot us :-)

[HeatherA 1]

I think that anyone that has been banded should bring a before pic. I think that would be fun and also encourging to the newly banded. I am gonna bring one of mine. Anyone else game!!!

Congratz Julie for getting back on the band wagon. Way to go girl!!!

I will try to remember to print one out. It's probably a good thing so I can attach it to the fridge door when I get home :-)

[HeatherA 1]

WHOO HOO ... problem solved. I have an appointment later in February for my first fill. Thank you Dr. Watkins!

Would love to meet up at Polaris on the 9th - haven't run into anyone yet in the Mansfield area who have had this done .. tell me where and I'll meet you guys.

There's a Columbus Get Together thread in this folder with all of the details, but the short of it is... we're meeting on the 9th at 2pm at Polaris in the food court seating area directly next to the Great Indoors entrance.

Hope to see you there!!!

[HeatherA 1]

Juli - that is too funny about the Drivers License! I have to go get mine renewed today and I was going to still let them keep '200' on there as my weight...been faking it for a long time and don't plan to stop! Sounds like you were honest with your DL weight...not many are.

I am laughing my butt off at that! I did THE SAME THING a few weeks ago when I went to renew... I just left the 200lbs on there... I wasn't near 200 the first time I got my license and I'm not now... but I will eventually be and so will you!!!!

[SpecialK 22]

I called Aetna today and they verified they have my paperwork to approve my surgery logged into their system as of yesterday January 31 so let the countdown continue!

[seebs 0]

I'm with you on the drivers license. Mine has said 200 for so many years. I had to do a replacement in January and still left it at 200. I laughed to myself that now I was only lying about 90 pounds instead of lying about 140.

I have to renew in June. I hope by then I'll only be lying about 50 pounds.

To Juli who had the TSA agent compliment:

Did you use a seat belt extension? I flew in January and decided to not use an extension if I didn't absolutely need it. I crammed myself into the seat and then managed to close the seatbelt around me. I could barely breathe but I was so proud that I didn't need the extension anymore. There was a large gentleman in front of me and across the aisle. He had to ask twice to get the extension. I could feel his embarrasement. I was so glad it wasn't me. Thanks lap band.

Seebs

[Angie4b1g 1]

Mine has always said 205.

It expires this year in September. Hopefully I can change it to the real number by then.

[OH Juli 15]

I traveled last in August 6 months after being banded. That was the first time I didn't have to use an extender. Whew, what a relief. I know what you mean.

My driver's lisence says 250. Never have I weighed less than the number on my lisence. Even my first lisence I said I was 150 when I was 170. I've always lied. No, I was well over 300 when I told them 250!

I love the Band!

[SpecialK 22]

Me too on being hopeful to have to not ask for a seatbelt extension some day soon. It is embarrassing and some flight attendants are very discreet about it and others are clearly annoyed to have to help you. I just say to myself - "look, I have a right to fly and see my family or take a vacation just like the rest of you so tough! " I can fit in one seat with the arms down so the middle person can't say that about me but its not comfortable by any means flying. My other big goal for 'fun' is to be able to go on roller coasters again and fit into the seat!

[Growingpanes 0]

Congratulations! That is fantastic news!!! You'll have your surgery in no time ... Look forward to seeing you guys on the 9th.

[Tyanna 0]

Hey Growing Pains,I live in Galion and do all my shopping in Mansfield so now you know someone in the area that has been banded Hope to meet you on the 9th.

[Turler 6]

Hello everyone...Newbee here!

OH Juli recommended I come over to this thread to meet others from OHIO. I live in Findlay, not quite Central Ohio, but close! She tells me you are having a get together at Polaris on the 9th! Cool! I'd love to meet you all. I haven't been banded yet, but surgery is scheduled for April.

Nice to meet you!

~Carol

[nurse niki 0]

Hello Hello Hello everyone! The 9th will be here before we know it...I can't wait! I think it is going to be a great time!

I was just reading all the talk about seatbelt extenders...I guess I haven't thought about it, but we fly in 22 days, and this is prob going to be the first time I will need one...I am 5'9" and about 310lbs...so I am betting on it. The last time I flew I was about 275 and didn't have any problems. ugh...I am not looking forward to asking for an extender and having my kids look at me with questions as to why I have one.

I am also a little worried about the rides at Disney. I know the kids are going to want me to ride with them...I guess I am going to have to take it one ride at a time and see....I just hate that my weight prob will effect them!

I guess I will just have to keep my eye on the prize..March 12th!!! They called last week and scheduled my pre op testing, last nutrition class and gave me a 9am time on the 12th! I just cant wait! Special K, be ready for Charlene to call with a date...maybe even this week!!!