CHEZNOEL

In particular search for Florisdays, she is from the Tampa Bay area and is a real sweetheart. I will PM her your post. She would be a great resource for you.

I was self pay, but I do not recommend traveling too far. It is best to have a doctor who has a full support team, nutritionist, psychologist, nurse practitioners, support groups, seminars, etc. They will then be with you throughout your journey. I think there are some other Tampa Girls around so they will have ideas for you. My net out of pocket was around $12,000. Tell the doctor you will be be self pay right up front. Many can operate in an surgical center which is cheaper than the hospital. I was out patient. Also, be sure to ask what the fees include regarding followup visits and fills and unfills. It turns out in my case insurance would not pay for the surgery, but does pay for fills. They also paid for many of the pre-surgical tests as well. Most doctors are willing to work with you and some have financing. Good luck choosing a doctor and a practice that will work for you. I will say that the band is the best thing I ever did for myself, and I do not regret a penny of what it cost me. If I may ask, why are you self pay?

I wish you every success. Read as much as you can and do research to be sure you are up for the band lifestyle. Asking questions here is a great way to start. The more you know, the more you will succeed. Best wishes on your journey. It is the best thing I ever did for myself.

My thoughts exactly. Don't get the band if you expect it to do the work for you. It won't. You will have to work hard to change your eating and living style if you expect to be successful. Not be snarky, but ask any bandster here who has lost significant weight. It ain't easy. I would talk with the doc and psychologist about your decision. Seriously... I am concerned for your success.

Way to go Miss Tracy. Glad the new doc is working out better. Hang in there.

Great progress. I see a bikini in your future. Your scars are doing awesome.

Interesting, I will check at my next appointment.

So sorry to hear you are sick, but trust me, you want the cough gone before surgery! Best wishes.

Just Stop It!

My port was a good ways below the bra line. You should have no trouble.

You are so right. She is our Florence Nightingale.

Are you post-op? Are you trying to go or nauseous? I am not clear from your post.

Where in NC are you from? I won't even offer to kick your butt, you are doing it already. Just go back to what you know works.

Take 2 oz whenever you can... in a day it will add up. And yes, it does get better!

Found it.... Week 1 - 19.37 Week 2 - 20.76 Total 40.13

Yay... Alex to the rescue!

Keep that positive attitude and you will be good!

All of these mini victories are important. Count them all and don't be afraid to post. You are on the road to a healthier you! Congratulations.

And... as my friend Sojourner likes to say... do or do not.... there is no try!

Chocolate every day is not on my plan either. Definitely need a nutritionist near you.

Good lean protein, cooked tender and fresh veggies are good for everyone in the family.

Most public pools want fully healed incisions before allowing you to swim do to possible blood seepage. This is definitely and ask the doctor, not us nobodies question!

Do not wait more than a couple of days though. You can definitely get way to dehydrated quickly.

We are all very adaptable... good information for all of us. Thanks.

Protein shakes are best post fill to ensure you get the nutrition you need. Try 2-3 oounces of protein every hour while awake, and sip other liquids in between.