Jazzy4Health

Hi there Mich! I too am going through UMASS and truly loving the experience. I have just completed my orientations (nutritional, med, behav). My pre-surgical skills group begin Wed (the 29th) for four weeks (ending Nov 19th), then my last appointment and scheduling. I believe that is how the schedule reads. From what I was told at the original conversation with Dr. Gitkind, my surgery will most likely be in Feb. That is fine with me. I am looking forward to it. January would be great, but Feb will do. At my last appt. the nutritionist did tell me to consider bypass surgery as an option. Apparently because I already exercise fairly vigorously (I had been walking 4 miles a day for a few months, gym workouts 2-3x wkly) and eating about 1400 calories, she informed me that the restriction of banding may only remove another 15/20 pounds. She said experience has shown them that many people in my circumstance have that outcome and end up having the bypass done after going through all of that. So, I am considering my options. My husband and I have discussed it and he is very supportive. I do not have to make my decision at this time, so I figure I will see how much more I lose prior to January just to gauge myself. I am fairly certain I do not want repeat WLS, but I shall wait and see. I wish you the best. If you have any input or suggestions, feel free to share! Thanks. Be happy each day by staying healthy!

Hello there Ladies! Long time since coming out here. Anyway, things are going great. This week (Wed) I begin my pre-surgical skills group meetings. It will be four weeks in a row. So, the last one will be the 19th of November. After that I have another appointment (cannot remember if it is behavoiral or nutritional), and then they will schedule surgery. My last appointment on the 3rd of October, the nutritionist told me to consider the bypass as an option as well. Apparently, with the amount of exercise I do, the restricted caloric intake, etc., I may not actually see much results from the banding. She mentioned that there are some people in my circumstance of being very active, and already very healthy eaters, who only lose about 20 or so pounds after the banding and end up then having the bypass. It is after that that they lose 70-95 pounds more. She said it is not a must for me, but she definitely felt it was worth me taking into consideration. So, I am. My husband and I discuss it. It will depend upon how much I lose over the next couple of months. Either way, I am excited about everything to do with my venture. I hope you are all doing well:thumbup: Find a new way each day to stay happy in a healthy way!

Hello there! Last night's meeting was not too bad. It seems as if at least a couple of people had some interesting questions and, more importantly, got some helpful responses and suggestions. I really felt badly for a couple of people who are clearly encountering a lack of support - actually outright opposition from people in their struggle. But, I believe that they could see that is where the idea of self-prioritization comes into the picture. My husband said he could believe it because people are so selfish and sometimes too wrapped up in affects upon them, that they do not want to bend for someone else. Even the people they supposedly love. They are somehow unhappy and the other person's happiness reminds them of that fact even moreso. My appointment with the behaviorist went very well and my appointment with the nutritionist is in a week. My skills group appts. are scheduled beginning Oct 29 - Nov 23(?), so things are moving along nicely. I had not yet had myself measured to track inches lost, changes, etc., but that is something I will do within the week. I am feeling great and very positive. Hope that you are all doing well. Sorry I was unable to see you MaryP and KathrynRose...Be healthy...

The meeting is on the 25th. Maybe we shall meet, I did meet MaryPetunia and KathrynRose...that is how I got to this site. Things are going very well. I met with Jen Lauretti on Monday. She was so very nice and set me up for my 4 appointments which will begin Oct 29th. She knew they were booked pretty much for all of Oct., and wanted to get me in ASAP. I appreciate her support. Oct. 3 is my appointment with the nutritionist. That is right around the corner. I am psyched. We celebrated our 2 year anniversary on Tuesday, but went out last night. It was awesome. My husband is doing well also. He has lost about 8 pounds so he would like to lose about 15 more. Wouldn't that be great? Oh well, I am really happy for him, plus is so supportive of my endeavors which makes life easier. Well, gotta run. See you all next week...

Congrats on your success thusfar. I am a "beginner" I guess. I had my medical intake in mid-August, my behavioral therapy session is on Monday, and my appointment with the nutritionist is on Oct. 3rd. I am going to UMASS Weight Center in Worcester, Mass. The doctor told me that surgery was possibly 6 months out between the mandatory and suggested things to do. I was hoping for Dec., but February is not that much longer in actuality. My way of looking at it is that there is that much more time to get my healthy lifestyle in place before the surgery portion! By the way, how do you get to the tickerfactory? Would love to put my stats together. It will help to keep me motivated. Who knows, it may motivate someone else too!! Thanks.

Hello there Amanda... I too am going to UMASS in Worcester. Did you enjoy the orientation? I found it very informative, but the best is after you have had your medical intake with one of the docs (I had Dr. Gitkind who was just great). Then you can go to the discussion group which is unlike the others. It was very supportive, people have had surgery already. There were far more bypassers than banders, but once I asked about the band, several people offered suggestions and support. There is another thread for UMASS bandsters, I cannot quite tell you how to get to it other than to type in UMASS under search and then you will see MaryPetunia as one of the names. It is a bit more active than this particular link you seem to be using. If I can be of any assistance, please let me know! Where are you from? I live in RI right over the Mass line, so it takes me about 40 minutes or so to get to UMASS, but it is so worth it! CORRECTION: it is under UMASS MEDICAL CENTER BANDSTERS Best of success. Hope to hear from you anytime.:thumbup:

MaryPetunia, I just sent you a reply...left the site...came back, and it is not here. Must have done something weird in my logging. Anyway, I looked up what a panni is and got all the scoop!:redface: Cool, it showed up...

Hello MP, Thanks for the input. I have BCBC of Massachusetts which, according to all the paperwork they sent me, will be no problem for approval. Their requirement is a 40BMI and that is why I am a bit concerned, but I told myself that if I get under that and they do not feel it a necessity, I will simply continue toward my goal on my own. I will cross that bridge, etc. That is one reason why I was considering whether I should call for approval B4 that happens. According to the letter they sent me the approval is good for 3 months' time. If it expires, I would have to reapply with a doctor's referral. Well, since you said that UMASS does all the applying, I will just wait until I have my behavioral and nutritional consults. That is only Oct 3rd, then, if necessary, I will schedule another appt with Dr. Gitkind to get his opinion (or that of the appropriate staff member) as to how it should be handled. From what they said before, they are familiar with BCBS of Mass and should know the best way for me to proceed! Oh, I believe I know what an abdominoplasty is, but what is a "panni"? It is funny you mentioned the breasts, I figure at some point I will want to do something with them...not necessary reduce, but at least uplift a bit. Time will tell! But, you are obviously quite an expert at this point...and will be even moreso! Thanks for your willingness to be a support to those of us that appreciate it so much. Till next we meet...Love, Yvonne

Thanks! I first attended a seminar in June. My appt with the doctor was August, Sept 15th w/ behavioral therapist, Oct. 3rd w/ nutritionist. I have been doing my own eating and exercise program. I have impemented some of the "techniques" I have noted. No drinking 1/2 b4 or after eating. Only 3 meals, no snacking. I have always journaled, so that is just a continuation. It has been enjoyable and enlightening. I have lost about 17 lbs, so that is another thing I feel positive about. Despite being excited and looking forward to the surgery, I also don't mind the wait...that is why I decided upon the lapband approach. It may be a smaller increment of weight loss, but I am not in a rush with myself anymore. That is truly an "ah ha" moment for me!!

Congratulations and I am so happy to hear you are doing well. It sounds as if you are doing just what has been suggested at UMASS from the staff and during the meetings: get off your butt ASAP. A couple of years ago I had a hysterectomy and I got up IMMEDIATELY - I had been back from recovery and that napping from the anesthesia...and BANG. I made myself walk around the bed, then a little further. I just wanted to heal better. Also, being active prior to the surgery is a great help to a speedier recovery. So happy for you. Cannot wait until I am that far along. Just having it scheduled will be awesome! Nightie-night. Love

Thanks all! That is pretty much what I gathered from the doc, etc. Hairloss really only occurs when not following the nutritionist's advice. Also, in the case of hair that does have some problems it begins to grow back fairly easily. My concern had been that in the past I did have problems with my hair/scalp, so I was just wondering. I too went natural for a few years, but the way my hairdresser tended to my hair it always looked slammin'. She was spanish - and not for nothing - but I have found due to the diversity in their ethnicity, in general spanish people are excellent with all forms of "ethnic" hair. As for me, after wearing braids for about 2.5 years, my hair was so healthy. It has always been super thick and soft, but NEVER had length. When I had it done is a soft hot comb style it was passed the middle of my back. Unfortunately due to some health issues...I had to cut it and have never grown it like that again. When I got married (2 years ago next Tuesday (biggrin) it was about 3 inches past my shoulders. Anyway, it has been nice having it in the breads. My hubby loves anything I do, so that is cool too. But, it was a great break during the humid weather. Glad for the info. Hope you are all doing well at whatever step of your weight loss you find yourselves. Things are going well for me. My husband gave me a really nice complement tonight and said that he could tell I was losing weight and really enjoying my exercising schedule. Even though the 4 miles a day is very tough sometimes, but it is worth it! Well, I hope to hear about your progress soon ladies and will keep you up-to-date on mine! Your sister in the Quest for

Hello there, I hope everyone had a pleasant weekend. We did! I notice that MaryPetunia had abdominoplasty. Did you manage to have your insurance cover any of it for you? I was just curious. Thanks for the info about submission to the insurance company. I was a bit confused as some people said they did it themselves, etc. So, wanted to know how UMASS handled it. I am a bit confused about the form where it says weight, etc. at the time of filling it out. I keep thinking about the gentlemen who mentioned that his pre-op weight loss cost him getting the surgery. When I first came to UMASS back in June they said that it would be your weight as of the day you filed out the applicaiton. I have lost 17 lbs since then and am hoping before the end of the year to lose another 20 at least. That will take me out of the over 40BMI range. Any thoughts or comments from your knowledge? Well, it is way past time for me to get going. I have been applying to employment ads, etc. since 6am and must get some things done around the house before I head out. Talk to and/or see you folks later!!:thumbup:

Hello there! First of all, congratulations! Keep up the good work. Next week I have my behavioral therapist appointment, so I am looking foward to another step. Then, on Oct 3, the nutritionist. My question/comment is actually about your hair. I notice from your message that you use castille soap for your hair. I have castille soap, but have not used it as a shampoo. It works well on african-american hair? Also, you mentioned that that is the only product you use...so, no oils and/or conditioners on a weekly (i.e., 2 or 3 times per week) basis? Please let me know. Presently I have my hair in braids anyway to give it rest for the summer, but I am due to have it done again and am curious. When did you have your surgery? Also where? Contact me when you can!

Great quote! I never heard that one before.

Hello Curvi! Wish you the best of success and look forward to speaking with you later. So happy for you. I am certain it will be worth the wait!

Hi Mary Petunia, Kathryn Rose and any others I have yet to know! It took me all this time to find this "group". Anyway, loved the meeting last week. It was very inspiring. Most of my questions and info I think are pretty much in the bag for me, but as I said that night, it was actually speaking with a BANDER that was missing. Nothing has changed my mind about band v. bypass. I am definitely in favor of banding for myself. My exercise is going very well. Four miles a day on my walks with a little jogging sprinkled in (VERY LITTLE). Seeing so many people with weight-related issues, etc. was a first for me. The feeling of support and well-wishing was awesome. I have not been able to stop thinking about the group. I shall do my best to attend on a monthly basis. Next month my friend is to accompany me. My next appt is the 15th (behavioral) and then on the 3rd of Oct. (nutritional). I eagerly await both. A question I do have since you had your surgery through UMASS: When does the request go into the insurance company for surgery approval? Did you do that yourself or do they tell you when to do it? I just want all my ducks in a row. While I know Dr. Gitkind mentioned it could be 6 months out (February), I just want to be as prepared as is possible. "Mary" I know you mentioned that you were not required to go on an extensive liquid diet prior to surgery, but I was wondering whether there was anything you were required to do or eat in particular. I am so excited I just want to start filling my freezer up with stuff! Totally unreasonable, but that is how psyched I feel. PLUS, I AM CERTAIN PART OF ME IS HOPING THAT IT CAN BE A LITTLE SOONER, LIKE BEFORE THE END OF THE YEAR...IT DOES NOT HURT TO DREAM A BIT!! One thing I forgot to add, so I am squeezing it in: Was there a specific amount of Protein grams suggested pre or post op? What type of protein supplements were suggested? How are you doing in your healthy lifestyle? What do you feel aids your success? My husband is being so supportive of me it is awesome. Also, I definitely feel that really thinking about what my issues have been has made it easy to be steadfast. I think the comment made at the meeting that it is best to think of it in terms of black and white was really helpful. Coming to the realization that it is imperative to want to do things for the sake of one's health and making those decisions based upon oneself as opposed to listening to others' input is crucial. Kathryn Rose, how are you doing on your Quest? It is very encouraging to see you taking control of your life and supporting others. I look forward to hearing from you fellow UMASS banders!

MissWilde, Hello. Did you take any supplements or protein shakes, etc. during that time? Why apple juice? Was that what was recommended? Any info you can share. Thanks

Hey there Ebony Rose: I am a February "babe" also. I will be 49, so my goal is to simply turn 50 at a healthy weight and continue with my good habits and add others along the way. Taking care of myself is prime. I know my husband is just so happy for me and supportive of my journey.

Wow! Amazing how fast everything went. I can hardly wait to hear how it goes for you on Friday. You will definitely be in my thoughts. I shall send you message over the weekend to check in on you. Was it suggested that you take Biotin? It is a regular supplement that I take, but I was curious. Thanks also for the heads up on the vitamin. How many grams of protein was it suggested that you take in?Best of success!!

Congratulations. I am in the process of planning for my surgery. So far I have had my medical intake which was really wonderful. Loved the doc and staff. Very comfortable with them. My behavioral intake is on the 15th and my appt w/ the nutritionist is Oct 3rd. The doc told me about six months out, so that would be February most likely. I am fine with that. I have been losing weight and exercising which I love. So, a little patience will not kill me. What kind of pre-op dieting did you do? I hear so many different things, so I am curious. Did you do liquids only? How long? Were you drinking protein supplements during that time? Whatever you wish to share that you feel would be helpful I would appreciate. Hope to hear from you soon. Best of success in your quest for a healthy lifestyle!

Hello there, What did you preop diet consist of, if you even had one? So many people have different instructions. Some have mentioned 30 days full liquid prior to surgery, others only a week or so. Just curious. How is your road to a healthier you going?

Hello, My name is Yvonne. It sounds as if you and I may be at about the same point. I went to the initial seminar in early summer. Had my medical evaluation/intake and my behavioral and nutrition intake are 9/15 and 10/3, respectively. I also attended a discussion group Thursday evening with so many people who had had WLS. It was VERY informative and motivating. I would recommend the same to anyone even considering surgery. Similar to someone else's comment to you, right at the seminars they mentioned about a 6 month timeframe from intake. It gives time to have the needed intakes, prep time and the group I am going through (UMASS Weight Center, Worcester, MA) also has exercise "classes" if you will. I already go to the gym and walk 4 miles a day, but I shall still go to the classes which are included in the program fee. It is truly a wonderful program. I wish you the best and hope we can chat in the future. Any input would be appreciated.

Hello, My name is Yvonne. I do not yet have my surgery date as I am in the prelim stages. I had my medical intake and will my behavioral and nutrition intakes shortly (the 15th and 2nd, respectively). Very stoked over the whole process. So many different people have varying experiences, so any input would be welcome. Some people it seems have to be on liquid only diets for a month prior to surgery, or certain diets. What about you ladies and gentlemen? What has been your experience? If you have been on liquid only diets, what types of nutritional supplements did you take. Any responses or just plain chatting would be great. :tt2:

Hello Elaine Are you pre or post op? I was uncertain. Either way, you will make it. I went to a discussion group on Thursday and one of things they mentioned is: We should view things as black and white! I took that to heart. No gray areas allowed. It is either good or bad for our continued success. I think no matter what we choose (a wise or unwise act) we should realize that and be willing to accept the consequences. I think that mentality in the weight loss forum - especially anyone considering WLS is imporant. So, tell me more about yourself and where you are on your journey to better health! By the way, cool pic! Have a great day. Yvonne

Hello shaversd! Congratulations...a .5 loss is better than a gain any day of the week! How long ago did you have your surgery? How have you felt things have been going in general. Oh, my name is Yvonne. I am not yet scheduled for surgery, but have had my medical intake and am going for my behavioral and nutrition in the next few weeks.