pattygreen

Hello friends, I want to introduce myself. I am Patty, 47 years old and a mother of 10. My husband and I had 6 boys and 1 girl, and we also raised 2 sisters and one other boy in foster care. I have been over weight since I was a teenager, after having children, I settled my weight at 225 lbs., and was comfortable with that, but since then have developed diabetes (4 years ago). I was on Actos medication which ballooned me up to 281 lbs.(5'7"), so the last 3 years, I have put on 56 lbs. My decision to have the lap band surgery did not come easy and without many prayers. But I finally had it done on 9/9. My surgeon was Dr. Yood at St. Raphael hospital in New Haven, CT. I had a decent experience with surgery. I had minimal pain. The first day of surgery, I slept alot and only needed xstrength tylenol for discomfort. Every day after that got better. The 3rd day I felt some pain in my left shoulder and it was difficult to get out of bed with the pull on my incisions, but I did alright. This is my 10th day since the surgery and I have lost 16.5 pounds. WOW! I can feel the difference in my energy level already. I used to have a hard time getting out of bed, and now I can sit right up no problem. When you take off so much weight in a short time you can notice the benifits better. I have been drinking liquids (water, crystal lite, jello, ice pops, coffee) but also drinking cream soups and protein drinks and drinkable yogurt. I go for my first checkup on Friday. I will see when I can start on puree foods at that time. Does anyone know how to find a lap band support group in your own town or area? Traveling to new haven once a month is too far for me. Thanks, and I'm so glad to be part of this forum.I would love to be friends with all of you.:thumbup: