MountainMan

I tried the Phentermine once...I was awake and jittery for three straight days/nights. I almost overdosed on Benedryl trying in vain to get some restorative sleep! I wasn't on it long enough to realize any weight loss. The band is the way to go...slow, but steady and healthy.

I agree that "tight" is subjective. In my experience, "tight" is too tight. If I have any trouble eating while following the rules (dense protein, portion control, no liquids with meals) that's a problem, because I'll be hungry and rely on slider foods to satisfy me. I want to eat any healthy foods I choose without productive burps, sliming, vomiting, etc. I lose weight better this way. When I've been "tight" I suffer, don't enjoy eating, and don't lose weight. It's unhealthy, and puts my long-term health at risk. I'd rather lose weight at a slower pace and not be miserable day-to-day. I know others want their bands filled so they're as tight as can be, but I'm not one of them. To each their own...

I think a heating pad at home is essential...at least it was for me. And give yourself permission now to take it easy for a week.

You look amazing. I agree with previous post...you ARE an inspiration!

I recall from my old college A&P classes that adipose (fat) tissue is very good at storing accumulated toxins. It seems reasonable that as we burn fat, we're also releasing all the crap into the bloodstream. I think the more water ingested, the better.

That's fantastic! You are an inspiration to us! Keep up the great work!

Sometimes you gotta just shake your head and wonder what the hell!?! People can be so cruel, whether it's intentional or not. I've heard a few murmurs similar to what was said to you, but thankfully most people who address it directly respect the fact that I did something about my obesity. I've made a conscious decision that as I drop pounds, I'll also drop any cares about what ignorant people say/think/do. I'm too busy doing something great for myself to waste time on anything else.

You can be sure that for the vast majority of people, the coverage/services will be reduced (or unavailable) and the costs significantly more under the ACA.

Most jurisdictions allow you to call or go online and give a brief explanation of why you can't serve at this time. They'll defer you for up to 90 days before rescheduling. That's been my experience, anyway.

For what it's worth...I am an RN who has been banded since March 2012. I'm just a few pounds shy of my goal and will probably revise it downward another 15 pounds. My experience with the band has been nothing but positive. I credit that to having an experienced, skilled surgeon in a highly accredited bariatric program, and my compliance with follow-up. As a nurse I researched my options exhaustively! There are naysayers to be sure, and people who have not been successful (often due to noncompliance in my opinion). A thorough look at the literature will show the band is a great option with the lowest mortality rate. And while there can be complications, they are minor relative to the complications with the other surgeries. Best of luck to you, whatever you decide.

I had a similar experience. The pain in my shoulder was very sharp but gradually decreased until it disappeared completely about three-four weeks post-op. Using a heating pad helped me a lot. Hope you feel better soon!

I'm eight pounds from my goal weight, and thrilled beyond belief with my band. I truly never thought I'd be here. My weight loss has slowed to a crawl, probably because I could use a fill, but I'm satisfied as long as the trend is downward. I've heard some say the last 10 pounds take several months. I no longer doubt that I can be successful in maintenance. For the first time in my life I am confident and actually planning for success instead of fearing failure.

I support your desire to lose weight as quickly as possible - we've all been there. If you're like most of us, disordered eating is what got us into trouble in the first place. I'm concerned that your current diet regimen is too extreme. The beauty of the band is that it allows us to learn better (normal) eating habits with slow, consistent weight loss, which is sustainable long-term. So I'd advise a bit of caution. However, at some point your appetite will reawaken and you'll want to eat good, nutritious food. Good luck on your journey!

I also didn't use most of what I bought. The one essential thing for me was a heating pad. I would have been lost without it! Don't judge your experience by anyone else...I expected to be back on my feet in a few days with minimal problems, but it was a week before I could lay down comfortably. Many people swear by the Gas-X strips but they did nothing for me. Repeated short walks around the house helped more than anything. Best of luck to you!

I took a full week off and was glad for it. My recovery was harder than I anticipated. If you can baby yourself for awhile, I say go for it.