Losing 2

KarenK/LoneStarLoser, thanks for the bike-reminder..... DH & I purchased a set last summer and rode them no more than 4x's. I just didn't have the energy - I told him everytime we went out to the bike trail. You have given me another hope for spring time; Now that I have some energy and have been doing much better on the treadmill, I know I can my tail on that bike and some exercise in. Last year, I'd get on it and sweat and breath so hard, that I would walk with the bike and not ride. Oh boy. This is good incentive and when the snow finally melts, I'll be ready for DH!! Enjoy your bikes!

I drove nearly four hours to get banded at the location you chose in Detroit. I used care credit for a portion of my self pay. Best of luck to you.

Nazzy... Best of luck to you!!

I have had two fills by two different docs; one was my surgeon, the other was my new band doc. Each have different approaches - no numbing by either and I didn't feel a thing by either. I finally do have pretty good restriction and can tell the difference. This is soooo worth it! Good Luck to everyone.

CONGRATS!! :thumbup: You have a date! You will find so much helpful info on pre-op/post-op and answers to just about every question imaginable!!!

Mollyjo.. CONGRATS!!! And... Welcome to Onderland!:thumbup: Awwwwww isn't this just great!!:eek::tt2: Everyone is doing so very great... and the encouragement on these boards have helped me so much!

Yep, so far... I have not regretted a penny of it!! I feel like a million bucks - I know I am way much healthier and have a much better attitude!

---------- CONGRATS TO YOU!!:sneaky: Everyone is doing so well... this thread is very encouraging!!

**Anne... Happy Birthday!!** Hello everyone... its so great to review and catch up on everyone. Aren't those NSV's just THE BEST!! I have been having several lately and they are a true boost to my encouragement level. My 2nd fill was last week and it has made a huge difference. This is a great boost as well. Best of Luck and Continued Success to All!

CONGRATS Cindie! I remember the feeling of being extremely excited a couple of days prior... and the time flew! Best of Luck to you on your newest journey.

CONGRATS TINA!! Don't forget to walk, walk & walk... even while in the house. That was great advise I received from this site. ----- Best of luck to you, JimmieLou

I have a question to ask your opinion of... I thought I knew which way I was going to go, until tonight. So, I thought I'd run it by the forum in a couple of places, to get your valued opinions. I am self-pay, went to Detroit for surgery. Fills were covered for 90 days. Anyway, the cost of us driving there, hotel, etc. adds up of course; After 90 days, the fills are $150. I've received info here regarding fills about 45 minutes from me for $95. at a center. Then, I called a very personable Doc who was recommended here (he's 5 minutes from me at a local hospital. I called his office to inquire if he'd do my fills. He called me back personally and provided me with his pager #, which I've used twice & he's called back quickly in both instances. Anyway, his office charges $130 and will attempt to bill your insurance. However, he has a $500 (self-pay fee) to take over your care - to become your band doc. You can call on him from now on end for all f/u band care and he sets you up with a nutrionist, if necessary. Question: Would you pay the $500? Or just go to the center for $95. Thanks for your feedback.

I found two places in Chicago (well, I got the info from this board); Where do you live?

Yes! They are flopping off in the back.:tongue:

Thanks everyone; I went with the personal care from the doc who is about 10 minutes or so away. So far, it's well worth it. I liked his explanations, he provided me with his email and let me know he likes updates and insists on corresponding. The fill went great!

That's just a brand name... I have a regular lap band. Yep, I traveled - I was self-pay and this was affordable, vs the $19,000 to $24,000 self-pay options in Chicago.

I have the Allegran(sp) band. I live in Chicago.

I was banded at Harper Hospital by Dr. Laker of Great Lakes Weight Loss Center. Their webpage has loads of questions and answers. As far as telling others... I am usually a very vocal person about what's going on with me - especially whenever I'm excited about a issue (such as lap band surgery); however, in the past, I've heard the worst responses to WLS from those who really don't know the facts. So, thus far - I've only told two folks at the job. I've decided I'll tell when I feel like it, or maybe I might not ever tell. My family knows and that is what counts. Best of luck to you

I have only had 1 fill (2nd one is scheduled for Tuesday); Not even five minutes after my first fill - I began gagging and spit up a couple of times. Doc immediately removed all saline and very slowly inserted less. I don't know alot about the process, but do know that you are NOT whining and that you should make the call as stated, ASAP. Good Luck

Also google: SurgeryLoans.com CareCredit.com You can obtain instant responses Best of luck.... if you really want it - don't give up.

:huh2:Julie Ann, your photo is awesome! I am checking out everyones #'s and this is so encouraging! :tt2:Wow!:glare:

I appreciate this sound advice... needed to hear it.

Yep, I agree - only the doc can tell you what to do about the IUD. However, I would never tell an 11 y/o all about this procedure and I'm sorry, but I'd get a sitter while I attend my seminars (never know what sort of questions & answers might come up there). Best of luck!