Working up the courage to do this...

beedub · July 12, 2008

Hey from Seattle,

I've been struggling with my weight since I was 13 and have played yo-yo dieter for the better part of 15 years. It occurred to me recently that while I have control over so many other things in my life, this is one area that I feel helpless and, frankly, ashamed. I don't think I know what it feels like to not feel self concious or disappointed in myself regarding weight. And I think I'm finally ready to do something about it.

So, I've been thinking about getting banded (note: I've already picked up the lingo from your conversations!) for a year now. And to be perfectly honest, I feel a lot of trepidation about what this means for the rest of my life:

- Guilt: I can't help but think that I got myself into this situation, I should be able to get myself out without surgery. When I've buckeled down and lost weight in the past, I felt like I really earned those lost pounds. But then then came back with a vengence. I know Lap Band is NOT a quick fix solution, but I guess I still feel like I should be able to do this on my own. Blame it on my Catholic Guilt.

- I love to eat: It's a big part of my social life -- which is probably a big part of the problem right there. I know I need to change the way I eat, but I don't weight loss to be the focal point of my life. But I also don't want to have to pray I get bumped to first class so my butt fits comfortably in airplane seats either.

- The horror stories scare the hell out of me: Even though Lap Band is much less invasive than other weightloss surgeries, it's still a medical procedure. I saw the postings about crazy post-surgery reactions and it freaks me out.

All that said, I know I need to do something. Now. I'm tired of making excuses. And I'm tired of feeling out of control with my body.

I don't expect anyone to respond to this, but I'm glad I've put this out there. If you have any advice, I'd certainly welcome it.

Thanks, peeps.

debbles · July 12, 2008

I was only banded yesterday and I already feel wonderful. Just a bit sore on my tummy. There are really no negatives. so you can't drink soda or beer, find something else to enjoy. No one says you can't love to eat....Just do less of it and enjoy each mouthful. you will learn to enjoy food more as you will taste every bite. Who cares about what your friends say. You are eating what you want and not just playing hog. Besides most people are only interested in their plates. There is nothing to stop you telling people you already ate before or a thousand other things or the truth. I cannot reply to all your issues at once. I am stil a bit woozy from yesterday. but feeling great!!!! and maybe you should taok to a doctor about what it really entails?

Boo Boo Kitty · July 12, 2008

I think #1 your guilt has got to stop. If you could do this on your own you would, plain and simple. The band is a TOOL not a cure, so there is no need to feel guilty, medicine has progressed and this is just another progression in it we can take advantage of!

#2, go see Ravenna Black. She is s dear friend of mine who had the band many years ago. She is in Seattle and a burlesque dancer. She will inspire you to make the committment. I wish I could go see her but I can't so you go see her, get inspired and tell me all about it.

www.ravennablack.com

#3 you don't give up food with the band! You learn to eat less and make better choices. But I will tell you a secret, I still sometimes have cake for Breakfast....SHOCK I know. How? Once and awhile in moderation! The band helps you learn to deal with food in a respectable healthy way!

#4 what does it mean for the rest of your life? Health is the best thing. Confidence, courage, the belief that you can overcome your biggest obstacles, a new life, a new you! IT is ALL GOOD!

#5 horror stories, ya they have em. BUT many more peopl die from heart attacks, stroke, high blood pressure and that is where you are headed. Given the alternative and the small chance things can go wrong who cares! Read alll the GOOD stories here and be inspired!

Good luck to you! :cool:

auntlucy · July 12, 2008

I shared some of your same feelings. Sometimes I still feel like, "why can't I do this on my own?" But, since I have struggled with my weight my whole life (first diet at age 3!), I finally just had to give in to the fact that I needed a tool. Even with the tool, I have to be very conscious about what I eat and have to exercise. It's still completely up to me! So, I take a lot of satisfaction and pride in the fact that I'm now succeeding. And now, I have zero guilt about getting the band because I know I'm still making the choices that are helping me to lose weight. The band isn't doing it for me...I'm doing it for me and I chose the band to help me. I finally got to the point after considering the band for more than 3 years that by not doing it I wasn't taking full advantage of the tools in front of me. At work, when we need a new tool to help us be more efficient, we get it! It would be irresponsible not to take advantage of all of the tools available.

I have always loved food too. I have found that my tastes have changed a lot. I went to a Mexican restaurant last night, and everyone I was with ordered greasy plates of enchiladas smothered with sauces. I didn't even want a bite. I ordered a broth-based tortilla Soup and had them leave off the tortilla strips. It was so flavorful! I sat there while they chowed down on chips and salsa, and I was content not even having one. Even though my 2 year old nephew (and reason for my screen name) kept holding chips up to me and saying, "Eat it!"

While there are some trade-offs, they have all been well worth it for me. Before the surgery, I thought the hardest thing for me would be not being able to drink while I eat. While it has proved to be challenging for me, after 50 pounds lost, my back no longer hurts!

You will have some decisions to make, and I wish you clarity as you go down this journey. Feel free to ask us anything!

beedub · July 12, 2008

Ladies,

I could not have asked for better responses to my first post. I was looking for a gut check, and I certainly got it. Thank you all for the tough love and the major encouragement.

I'm making an appointment to discuss a plan with my doctor first thing Monday morning.

Again, thanks for the push. I appreciate it.

Good luck to you all.

- B