Hi all - I've been banded since 2009 and I lost close to 100lb, gained back almost 30. I've stopped exercising, I can eat anything, haven't seen a Doc in 3+ years because I moved away from my surgeon. I need to establish a new doc, cash patient I presume, with new insurance and all, I also need to find a support group and get back on track before I "hurt" myself with a slip or other issue. I CAN EAT ANYTHING...I choose bad things - cookies, ice cream, candy, etc. I COULD drink a protein shake, eat a healthy salad for lunch and another shake for dinner and feel full and satisfied, but I don't - I eat, eat, eat - out of boredom, stupidity and I've gotten very lazy - I don't exercise anymore. Zero support from home and just moved to new area so I haven't made friends yet. I'm searching out Dr. in my area - Daytona Beach, FL area and going to get myself on track - please feel free to offer advise and motivation - I love to hear from people that are doing well, or that have experienced the same. I feel "fat" again and I'm really beginning to dislike myself again. The "rolls" are re-appearing. I was a gym-junkie for a couple of years so I know that girl is inside somewhere, but she's hiding under a blanket eating a strip of frozen thin mints. HELP!

I think it's obvious the first thing you need to do is get back into get your band checked. You're supposed to have it checked yearly and the fact you've gone over 3 years isn't good. Finding a new bariatric surgeon should definitely be a priority.

You talk about how you "can eat anything". It's very important to realize the band isn't meant to physically stop you from eating anything. It is supposed to allow you to be satisfied on much less food for much longer periods of time, not stop you from eating anything. Have a look at this link it'll help considerably: http://drsimpson.net/fills/Lap-band-eating/lap-band-not-restriction/lap-band-and-restriction.html

You lost 100 pounds so you know what is necessary to be successful with your band. The fact you're here, seeking advice and support, is a great step towards getting back on track. You CAN totally do this, you just need to get your head back into the game. Have you considered counseling? Or a support group? I really think either would be a huge help. The thing about the band is, it goes around our stomachs not our heads. It's great for controlling hunger but it can't help mentally/emotionally unhealthy food issues. Food addiction is very real and sometimes we need real professional help to overcome it.

You can do this. Start believing in yourself and doing whatever necessary to get back on track.

Best wishes!