Maincat

I've only just started weight loss (well, six weeks since pre-op). You're a great example of what is possible. I aim to lose around nine stones (about 58 kgs) and I'm prepared for the long haul. I've lost just over two stones in six weeks and I haven't had my band filled yet. Again, well done.

That's fantastic! How long has it taken you to lose that weight?

I guess this thread would be better placed in the Lounge. I was also a teacher. The kids were great, just some of the other teachers were idiots.

Hi, The Lapbandtalk.com logo - can we have a picture of a male too? I'm available for a fee!!

Where are your sources for these statements? I was treated by a leading surgeon on the NHS (Mr Leeder, Derby - just Google his name) who put me on the pre op diet and I can assure you he knows exactly what he's doing.

I was on the waiting list at Derby from March to November 2007. Was certainly worth the wait. Excellent service at Derby. I'm now 3 weeks post op and the weight is coming off. Mr Leeder is an excellent surgeon and the team there are great.

Well done - that's great. I'm just three weeks since my band was fitted (no fills yet) and am losing weight for the first time for years. I hope you reach your goal and continue to have success. Kind regards,

Should have said - the video above is about 130 meg so it may take a little while to download.

I have used a CPAP machine for about four years. I had to take it to the hospital when I had my operation, and stayed in for an extra night because I have SA. I also went to a 'step down' facility at the hospital straight after my operation so that I could be closely monitored. All has been very well. I used my CPAP machine when in hospital when my O2 levels were satisfactory. I love my machine, which has given me a whole lease of life. I went on local TV to talk about CPAP - you can view it here at http://www.milward.org.uk/video/tv.mpg

I've got scales that are digital, super-duper display etc. Strange how I trust them more when they say I've lost more than expected. That's great. I don't trust them as much when I haven't lost much - always re-weighing myself, breathing in, willing them to give a different reading. Ring any bells?

That's what I meant. I had information given to me by the surgical team (which includes the dietitian in my case). It included plenty of vegetables, which was great. Different doctors, different pre-ops.

Didn't your surgery team give you that information?

I had mine done on the NHS. Excellent! I don't understand why so many people take the private route. My hospital was great, very, very clean, top staff, caring, supportive and understanding. Go on, tell me why you don't use the NHS.

So it seems only 20% get their band via the NHS. Why is that - too long a waiting time, unsympathetic GPs, too many hurdles to jump? After all, going private isn't cheap. Steve

OK, from middle England, here's my top ten hate list: Dick Van Dyke - that accent! Jerry Springer's audiences. McDonalds - puke! American football - what's the point? G. W. Bush - a total calamity. Maury - we've tested 24 men and still not found the father! Penn and Teller - WTF!! QVC - isn't it just fantastic/superb/wonderful/amazing/freaking expensive? The Eagles - if I ever hear 'Hotel California' again!! Walt Disney - there just isn't enough sugar in the entire world.

Hi, By reading some of the threads on this forum, I guess that the majority of posters had their bands by going private and paying themselves, instead of using the NHS. Is that really the case? Please vote and let's get an idea of the mix. Kind regards, Steve

Hi there Ann, My first appointment at Derby Royal Infirmary was easy. I met the dietitian and other members of the team who are very friendly. There is information to give you of course, but ask any questions you may have. I don't remember being there that long. The appointment before your operation (about two weeks) is straightforward. I had a lot of questions to answer about my general health, some blood tests and an ECG. I also saw the anesthetist who explained his role and what would happen. I was there a couple of hours. The staff at Derby are very nice and supportive. Again, you can ask any questions you may have. All in all, the whole experience at Derby was good. I really do encourage you to follow the pre op diet as it makes the operation easier. Good luck with your appointment. Kind regards, Steve

Another book is recipes For Life After Weight Loss Surgery by Furtado and Schultz ISBN 139781592331970. Just because we're in a weight loss situation doesn't mean bland food! HTH, Steve:hungry:

Yep, here's another one.

Hi, I was put on the list in March 2007 and had my operation in November. Although I live in the Newark and Sherwood NHS Trust area my operation took place in Derby.

Hello Lisa, I was banded on the 14th November in Derby. All went smoothly. I went in on the Wednesday and back home on the Friday. I was very nervous beforehand, but when I got to the hospital the nerves seemed to lessen alot. I was on the pre-op diet for fourteen days - I don't know what the 'normal' time is. I guess it's down to your medical team to judge the appropriate time. Good luck with your surgery. Kind regards, Steve

Hi, I'm from a village just outside Mansfield Nottinghamshire. Just been banded on 14th November 2007 on the NHS.

Hello all, My name is Steve and I've just joined the forum. I've just had my banding operation (six days ago) in Derby on the NHS. I'm excited at the possibilities the operation offers in terms of life improvements and would welcome any input from members. Kind regards, Steve

Hello, My name is Steve, I'm 50 years old and had my banding operation six days ago. I'm very excited to find this forum and want to share the journey - the highs and lows - and learn from your experiences. I'm based in the East Midlands, UK. I had my operation in Derby. Good experiences so far, but I feel I'm at the beginning of a long road. If you want to put a face to the name, please visit Stephen Milward BA, Cert.Ed., MCP, MCDST Kind regards, Steve