ladykcusa

Very interesting that lapband is being used for "select" teens. Well done video. I was lucky to visit Sydney and Melbourne about 4 years ago. Had a wonderful time. How are you doing with your band? Joyce in KC

Congratulations ladies - you look marvelous. You will make it to goal. Yippee. JC in KC

mhp - Hope your doctor is able to resolve the pain issue for you. Let us know.

Kendra, I'm still on mushies, so beginning of 4th week post op. That means 6 weeks (including the pre-op) that I have been limited in my choices. I've lost 18 lbs and am thrilled. When I do eat, I'm full on about 1/3rd of former portions, or less. I'm still in the learning phase, so Peaches response has more information for both of us. Joyce

Peaches - I meant keep on going until we reach our goal. Not keep on going to the meetings. lolo Sorry I didn't make that clear. I agree, the meetings can be negative - however if I pick up one thing that will help me, I benefit. This is a challenging life-style adjustment and it will require great effort.

7 lbs. until I can join you. I can hardly wait. Congratulations to you.

Bigbirney - Keep your eye on the prize. So many have been successful with the band, and you CAN do it too. However, it is OK to whine sometimes.

Kendra and Peaches - It was nice meeting both of you on Saturday. Let's pledge to keep going until we hit our goals. Joyce in KC

Majj - they are adorable. Enjoy them and now you will be very healthy to run after them too. Joyce in KC

Mrs. t - Glad you are joining us. Lots of great info here as you begin this journey. We are all doing it together.

Hi Ray, How long since you visited with your doctor?? He could help decide if you need a fill and could advise how to get you started again on the road to losing that 120 lbs. You DESERVE the life you desire and the band can help you get there. How about joining the meeting tomorrow @ New Hope Bariatric @ 10 a.m. for inspiration and support. There are other men there who would share, as well as ladies. Joyce in KC

Kendra - Day 3 of pre-op was the toughest for me. After that, it became routine and easier. Hang in there - it will be worth it. Joyce in KC

I'll be there too. Hope we have some very positive banders at this meeting. Joyce

Forgot to answer - no exercise yet. My doctor does not release for exercise until 5-6 weeks.

I use the journal given by my doctor to record all foods and water & exercise. This journal only asks for protein grams (no calories). The goal in the book is 75 grams per day. Normally I have 105 and feel great. I checked calories for a couple days and ran 750 to 850 calories. After years of dieting, we have to learn a new way to health. I do NOT want to lose my hair, and I want to start this change carefully and with focus. It takes 21 days to change behavior and only 7 to revert to past behavior. Best of luck to both/all of us. The rewards will be worth all this effort. Joyce in KC

Outdoor girl - 25 lb loss is great. It will happen. Just keep following our band rules and, perhaps journal your intake. Will help them when they fill. I've lost 17 lbs. in a month. That is a little over 4 per week - which I'm very happy with. We are starting a new lifestyle and we know how successful this will be. Try to be patient. JC in KC

Your solutions sound very efficient and smart. I feel logging all food will help me & my doctor to determine amount of fluid for fill. Comparing my weight loss with the diary should give him what he needs to make the decision. We can do this and be successful. Joyce

I asked my doctor to point out location of port on first post-op visit. Since each doctor places it differently, check with yours. Welcome to the journey to a better, healthier life. Joyce in KC

Miss See_Ann - I just started mushies. Mashed potatoes are great and go down very easily. Believe they call them sliders. KFC has them, so does the grocery store - premade. Many have said, few problems until the fills begin. Good luck to you. Joyce in KC

Welcome, Jeri. Lots of information and support here. Jump right in. Joyce in KC

Froggie D - looks like we have a nice group in K.C. JC in KC

Ashley - Visit a health food store and ask for help with protein sources. Isopure is a protein water containing 40 grams of protein. If you are able to find an informed clerk, you will receive lots of suggestions. Joyce in KC

Nikki - I'm Day 8 past surgery and have been sleeping on my stomach the past 2 nights. No problem. Sleep well tonight.

This is the best thread I have read so far. Worth hours of therapy. A 66 year life-long battle with food. Darn right I'll take help/ the lap band tool. So much personal effort goes into the use of the tool. Thanks for everyone's input here. I'll use all the experience from friends here. JC in KC

I'm still post-op full liquids and have worried about this "up-coming" challenge. WHEN AM I FULL?? It will be a part of the process to learn what "full" feels like. Not knowing, or ignoring it, was what brought me to the band. Joyce in KC