Well it doesn't seem like many of us are still here even though we are at the 5 year mark. It's so hard to believe we have come this far. Well it hurts me to say that at almost 5 years in...my band has slipped. Despite everything, I have truly enjoyed this journey. I would not be where I am now if it were not for my band which is why I am so afraid of losing it. I go for a second upper GI in two days to take a look at the band again. I am hoping and praying for the best.

Even though our forum has wittled away I still remember so many of you and the triumphs and disappointments we have shared. I hope all of you are doing well!!!

Hi, I envy you at having reached your goal weight. And I agree with you, about still needing the band to keep and maintain your weight. For without the band we'd be back to where we started almost.

To bad they don't understand the need for the band still. Maybe they need to go to some of the WLS session to get a better understanding of the bands' need.

But, I know for sure, that I have learned a lot about my eating habits and what makes a healthy eating style. For I know what I will need to do to keep the weight off.

I recently just had a fill after 8 months of trying to go it alone. So, Friday coming I'm going in for another fill. I hope the dr. will agree with me.

Well, continue doing what you know is best for you. Keep us informed. Thanks.

Hi, Marchies! So glad to see atleast a few of you here--so good to reconnect with friends. 5 years! Wow. Sounds like we have all had our ups and downs--so is life, huh?

Tammyj, you've always been an inspiration. I hope all is going well with your new band and that you continue your incredible success. Janine, I totally get the "life" stuff--my mom has had Alzheimer's the past 5 years and it is just so sad. It's like your parent dies a little more every day and so do you. Whitepants--sounds like you and I haven't had quite as good of luck as our friends.

I lost about 60 lbs the first few years, maintained for a year or two, and then started having trouble with the band. I didn't realize it was the band because I was having other health issues (perforated colon, two 10-day hospitalizations, surgery, etc.). After the surgery in January I realized that my nausea was probably caused by the band, not the huge doses of anitbiotics that I was being given, so my new doctor unfilled the band. While I was sick from November to April, I lost 40 lbs. Unfortunately, as soon as I began eating, I gained a pound a day for the first few months. Now I'm gaining 1-2 lbs. a week. (I was filled in May but the band just isn't right).

So today I went for a barium swallow and it looks like the band is in place and tilted the correct way but there is no stomach above the band. So when I swallow, my esophogus has to enlarge to hold the food while it goes through the band. I think that must be causing my quesiness. I see the doctor again next week and we'll talk about the results and how things go this week. The technologist said the band is definately too tight right now. The strange thing is, I only have restriction on the first bite or two and then I can eat whatever quantity I want. Like I said, something isn't right.

I'm thinking seriously about getting the sleeve. I'm so torn because it's against all the reasons I went with the band in the beginning. To have another surgery right now DOES NOT SOUND FUN! (Does it ever???). Anyway, I'm reading lots and thinking and praying and trying to figure out the best plan. I do love my new doctor and have a lot of faith in his advice, so I'm anxious to see what he has to say on Tuesday.

So, that's my update, Marchies! Keep in touch!