Claire

I was banded exactly one year ago at TLBC. I've lost 90 pounds. I'm healthier in every way than I was a year ago. I've got about 40 pounds to go and have no doubt that I will lose those pounds. The biggest reason I made it through a tough year, that included the death of my beloved mother, was the support of one person at TLBC....Jill. Her knowledge, kindness, willingness to meet me and talk to me whenever I needed her...her evening information sessions and boot camps...her nutrition advice and tips...her encouragement at the beginning when I thought I'd never 'get there' -- all meant the world to me. She made the whole experience 'human' and personal. She's the person who made it possible to succeed after the band surgery. Getting the band is so much more than just having a half hour of expensive surgery. Like all of you, I had to go through emotional ups and downs as I navigated this new world of eating. And I can honestly say that I couldn't have done it without Jill. I'm writing this because I heard that Jill has left TLBC. I don't know the circumstances but I do know it's been 'tense' in that office during my past several visits. And I've heard that other staff have left TLBC recently as well. TLBC has lost an honest, decent, motivated and caring staff member; for me, she was the only person there who took a genuine interest in my progress after the surgery. Claire

I had the surgery on Nov 29th. I've been on solid foods since Dec 18th and am having trouble swallowing. Everything I've been eating since leaving the pureed stage and going on solids feels like a giant lump stuck in my esophagus. I'm chewing things into mush (as directed) and easing back into solids by only eating 'soft' foods but still, it's like swallowing an elephant. There's an incredible tightness that takes a while to dissipate. I called the clinic and was told that perhaps I should remain on pureed foods for a few more days...which didn't really answer my questions as to why I am having this sensation in the first place. I was told that the feeling in my esophagus is a 'referred' feeling of fullness coming from my stomach. Has anyone else had this sensation? Claire

I'll admit to being a computer idiot! I've searched the LBT site trying to figure out how to insert one of the weight loss ticker thingies and can't figure it out. I'm sure once you tell me, I'll realize how simple it was. I had the procedure done in Toronto on Nov 29th and am into my 'pureed' phase and just found this forum...and am looking forward to doing lots of reading. Claire