SHAZ

I know how you feel. I too am sometimes thinking that I'm eating too much since I have not had my first fill yet. I am on regular foods now (four weeks post-op) but nothing carbonated to drink and no bulky foods. I do my utmost to eat the foods that I need - no fatty and sugary meals and I still drink two Protein drinks daily. I am looking forward to getting my first fill. It sounds as if you are doing just fine. Don't be hard on yourself. We're going to succeed!!!

I would be interested in helping on this project. I am newly banded (Jan 3, 2005) but wouldn't mind sharing what experiences I've had so far.

They like to make sure you are a good candidate for the procedure. However, all will be fine. I am new to the site also. But, I am finding it to be just what I need. Everyone is so very supportive of each other. I am really enjoying the communication with so many people of whom I have this in common with. Good Luck to you!!!

Wishing you the best on your procedure. I think we all were nervous on that day(smile). You'll be fine!!

I would definitely attend since I live in Chicago. We would have a wonderful time as Chicago is a great town for having fun.

Hang in there Lisa!! You're a strong person!! My prayers are with you...

Welcome Sanmae Well, I was just banded on Jan 3rd, but I was ready for work one week later. The healing process was more rapid than I expected. However, my job doesn't require any lifting. I'm basically sitting down most of the day. I have UHC but I've heard from others that Blue Cross may require a more extensive history before approving you. I'm sure you will get more bandsters writing in who have BCBS. Good Luck!!

Congratulations!!! Liquid tylenol worked very well for me. You will feel better very soon. Take it slow...

Congrats Tonya, I remember how good that felt for me when it happened. Good Luck!! Do you have a surgery date yet?

What is erotion of the band and how would one know if it happens.

Leatha, have you tried Zinc Lonzenges? They work miracles for me. One brand is called "cold ease" or "cold eeez" and can usually be found at Walgreens.

"Qwinner" Hang in there. You're almost there and the worse is over!!!! You'll be on puree before you know it. And I must say it will feel good.

GET WELL SOON, LEATHA!!!!! Drink water and stay in bed. Your body needs to relax in order to heal.

Hi Trish and others I have united Health Care and was approved after three weeks. I was told it could take up to six weeks but thank goodness it did not. However, although my initial surgery was scheduled for October of 2004, it had to be put off because there was microscopic blood in my urine and I was experiencing severe back pain. Once I got this problem cleared up I was rescheduled for Jan of 2005 ( It was easier for me to take some time off work at this time). United Health Care will approve you and I don't think it will take long at all. This insurance company is smart enough to realize how much $$ will be saved by approving WLS. Hopefully others will catch on. Hope you will be banded soon!!!!!!

The pain is around the band area. However, my port has healed very well (no pain). I will be calling my doctor today. Thanks Becky. (nervous)

Thanks Marie and Jamie. I don't remember doing anything to excess unless I slept twisted that particular night. I have no fever and the pain catches me off guard with certain movement. I will keep you guys posted. (nervous)

Jamie, thanks for responding anyway. I am somewhat nervous. By the way, when is your surgery date?

As most of you may know, I am exactly two weeks post op as of today (Monday). For the past four or five days I've been experiencing burning pain around the band area of my tummy. It has caused the entire area to become sore. I was not having this before, in fact I thought I was healing very well. It all started a few nights ago when I was repositioning myself in bed as I slept when suddenly I got this sharp pain each time I would move. So, I just layed there and was still for a while. But it seems that since them I'm having severe burning. It is very uncomfortable. Initially, I thought it was a part of the healing process. But it hasn't gotten any better yet. Has anyone else experienced this?

I saw something somewhere about a lap band cruise coming up this summer (2005). Can someone tell me where to get more info about it? I can't seem to find it. Thanks.

I'm 5'7.5" and I am experiencing severe knee disease. I look forward to the day when I will get relief from this as well as other discomforts. Thank all of you for your warm welcome. Shaz banded 1-3-05

Hello Everyone My name is Shaz. I've only known about the sight since my surgery on 1-3-05. I was one of the fortunate ones whose insurance company paid for the procedure (United Health Care). My initial weight was 235 and having a small bone structure, I have experienced several health challenges as a result. As of one week ago I have already released 18 lbs (smile). This seems to be going well! I had my surgery at Swedish Covenant Hospital in Chicago. It was done by Dr. Rasponte who is a very patient, thorough and experienced doctor. I came home the next day and only had to use a pain killer (liquid tylenol) twice. I am now almost two weeks postop and I feel great. I think this is one of the best moves I've ever made! This is a wonderful web site, the best I've found. I plan to take part in some of the social events as well. Thank you for all of the useful information. It's been very helpful to me. This is TRULY a support group!!!! Shaz

I will be attending the "Bandstock" affair. Is there anyone in the Chicago or outline areas who would like a travel partner? Feel free to e-mail me - sheecann@sbcglobal.net Shaz Newly banded as of 1-3-05 (already 18 lbs lighter)

Speaking of bands popping off. How would one know if that did happen? Shaz

I'm not quite two weeks post-op yet, but has anyone heard that there are some people who do not have to be filled? Supposingly the placement of the band is enough for the proper food restriction for some. Shaz

Hang in there SunshineGirl. You're almost home and will soon be on puree. This is my 17th day of liquids so I can definitely relate to the boredom. However, we're gonna make it!!!