mousecrazy

What's to explain? I wouldn't spend another minute thinking...there are LOTS of "not bad people" out there, but does that mean you want to develop a serious relationship with all of them? I think your criteria should be set higher than "not a bad person." It's over, if it ever really started. Respect yourself. Maybe during this time of changing, you would do better to fly solo for a while? Live and learn. Sorry you are confused, and please, just ditch this guy. Cindy

You are on your way! How exciting! That is a BIG hurdle right there, that you don't have do. Where in North Texas are you? You can ask for surgeon names from us NT people if you don't already have one in mind... Cindy

HI, well, no one else has a weight problem like I do, but then, they still drink and smoke, and I quit that a few years ago. I understand your anger and frustration, because I feel that way toward them and their drinking problems. One in particular has already had many physical problems due to smoking and drinking, and will not stop his risky behavior. I feel angry about him, and angry about the effects his decision to do nothing about his problems has on my DS and nephew. The bad news is, there is nothing you can do to control someone else's behavior, if they do not want the guidance. Very insightful thread, and I hope you get the support you need in this situation...Cindy

Hi! I am in North Texas, also...I believe you can have a BMI of 35 with comorbidities, which means weight-related health problems. I guess you need to start with your regular doctor, who, hopefully, has documented your efforts at weight loss. You will need that documentation for insurance approval. So, first step, see your doctor. Ask all your questions. Check into your insurance and see if weight loss surgery is excluded. I was lucky, my insurance covered it, and by the time someone told me to think about it, I already had 6 months documented doctor-supervised diet. I don't think age has anything to do with it...I sure wish I had done it when I was younger!!!!! Good luck and welcome to LBT! Cindy

Interesting topic...I don't have all that much experience with perspectives outside of the US, or their medical stats, for that matter. I do know that public demand causes restaurants to serve larger portions, and we get used to seeing that as normal, and we get used to eating that much as normal, too. Maybe they pioneered the lapband because weight issues have more importance to them???? Just guessing, Cindy

Hi, Candice! You have found a great place to learn and research and find support! Use the search feature, read up on past posts, and ask any questions...glad you're here! Cindy

You've done an amazing job, Jess! I have often read your posts, found lots of good advice, and always--inspiration! Congratulations! Cindy

The day after, I was content to rest and I used the heating pad alot for gas pains. It wasn't the worst pain I've ever had. Lots easier than the hysterectomy! As for shopping, no...I think I drove on the 4th day after, if I remember correctly. So much depends on personal and individual inclination...are you a toughie? Or a mushie? I'm sort of in between, leaning toward tough. I think I did some laundry and light house stuff, just because I was bored! Listen to your body...do what you have to do! Good luck! Cindy

Call you surgeon! No use waiting! Congratulations! Cindy

I doubt the baby's daddy is anywhere near. Probably an empty threat, but a threat all the same. Now, it is difficult to deal with people like this, but I encourage you to do due diligence on behalf of the kids. I know it's scary. It's not just the bad guys that have rights...you do, too, and those kids have absolutely no choice in the matter. Please document everything, report it, and take care of yourself.

There have also been reports of those whose fill didn't "kick in" for awhile...I think it would be a good idea to check with your fill doctor, in any case. Good luck! Cindy

I haven't lost as much as some of the others here, but one thing I think is helpful is to understand that no one is perfect and so to hold yourself to a standard of perfection is counter-productive. Be flexible, what is working for you now might not work for you in a few months; be able to look for little changes you can make to keep the weight loss going. One more thing: don't freak out when you stay the same for awhile...most people do that, and your body needs time to adjust. Be nice and let it have it's time. Good luck, Cindy

My DD is 8 1/2...last year she was complaining of pain in her pelvic area, so much so that we took her to the doctor, who had her do a sonogram..they detected ovary growth at that time, and told us she would be early into puberty. She has not had a period, but she does have breast development, and has had to start using deoderant, so I suppose we're not far off from periods, either. I have taken the honest approach...I try to be very up front and as detailed as she wants to get...which isn't very detailed at this time, but she does have questions. My goal is for her to understand how her body works, objectively, and then to give her strong guidance in how to respect that womanly body. I filled in too many "blanks" on my own, made mistakes, and wasn't really taught how to esteem my body and give it worth. I want that for her, and it's up to me and Dh to do it. I don't have book suggestions, but I know there are some good ones out there, maybe go to Amazon and search? DD is big girl, is yours? She is almost 5', weighs 155, wears a size 8 women's shoe...my DH is 6'4". Have you had to buy bras yet? I have DD wearing sport bras for the time being, it's hard to find "training bras" for a 40A! LOL! We'll get through this, but like you, I can hardly believe it's happening so young! Hope any of this is helpful, Cindy

I'm 7 months out, and doing great! I have not had any problems and believe that this was one of the best decisions I ever made. It's not magic, and you do have be somewhat compliant to your post-op aftercare directions, but if you do your part, it will be a success!

I'm just over 7 months, and have lost 53 pounds or so, depending on the day. Lovecats85, looking over the stats, I see you were much lighter when you started, which might explain the slower rate of loss, so don't worry. You are doing great! Cindy

Honestly, I'm not sure there is anything that helps stretch marks...Mine aren't too bad (from pregnancy). If anyone knows any solutions, though, I'd be interested. Cindy

Not familiar with the Central Expressway Pappadeuxs, but do know the one at 35 and Northwest Highway... Would the Lewisville area be a good one? No Pappadeuxs, but there are lots of restaurants by Vista Ridge? Just throwing out ideas... Cindy

Welcome to LBT! It's so great to talk to people all over the world. I am also impressed by the command of the German language I am seeing here. Sorry, I can't participate in German, but it's fun to read! Good luck in your Banded journey! Cindy

I think the Adkins Advantage chocolate shakes taste good. Not Sonic Drive-In Chocolate shake good, but good for what it is. I buy them at Sams. Cindy

My port is on the left side, about waist level...not exactly waist level, a teensy bit above. Surprisingly, it does not bother my with clothes. The only time it bothers me if is I eat too much, then I get a pressure feeling there. Cindy

Hi Margo! I'll bet you a nickel, with that kind of weight loss, that your body is taking some time to adjust, to shrink into its new weight. I know its hard to endure, and a little scary, like you said, but it's all gonna be okay. Weight loss is not an even thing. Something that might help you is to know that rice cakes are pretty high on the glycemic index...that is, they convert to sugar pretty fast...maybe substitute snacking on something that releases its sugar a little slower? Not picking you apart...just looking for a little tweak to help you out. That sais, you are doing fantastic, and try not to get scared...you are doing great and you'll keep doing great! Cindy

AS always, Jack gives excellent advice! The answer to your question is very individual, and depends on your attitude, and the attitudes of your family and friends. I am fortunate to have very supportive and easy to get along with family and friends. Like Jack, I have received practically 100% positive responses. If there's a .9% out there with a reservation or disagreement, it hasn't been voiced out loud. Since everyone knows, eating occasions are no big deal. I eat what I can and what I want; no one ever says anything about it. Honestly. I enjoy most of the same foods everyone else enjoys...I avoid the things that don't work for my band, but everyone has personal tastes, so it just looks like it's my personal taste not to eat a loaf of bread! Good luck as you sort through all of this...you will learn what is right for you! Cindy

They do have meds they can give you with the anesthesia that will keep you from getting sick, if that's your case, or itching, if that's the problem. I would talk to the doctor about your concerns...they have experience with drug sensitivities, and will probably have a back up plan. Good luck! Cindy

My predictions were not too good for who would get voted off...I was not surprised about David, but was surprised about Sway. I thought he had something going for him. Yippee that Brenna is out! That attitude is more than annoying, it's downright disgusting. No class. At least David and Sway had class when they left. I figured Kinnick would go before Heather, but they all have an equal chance to impress us next week. Cindy

Anyone who is banded understands the struggle you are going through right now. I decided if I was willing to have the surgery in the first place, that I owed it to myself to follow the directions EXACTLY. So, I wasn't 100% perfect, but I'd say I was 90% or better. Keep your eye on the goal. Keep your head in the game. It seems like forever, but it isn't. Prove it to yourself! You may be pleasantly surprised at your results! Hang in there, you can do it! Cindy