Jump to content
×
Are you looking for the BariatricPal Store? Go now!

My experience is valid!



Recommended Posts

I've tried to tell my story here and been shot down over and over...I'm done. I suffer every hour with the damage done to me by this band. I swallow, it comes up, over and over again. I'm losing, but there's no celebration. I hurt, but there's no supportive words to help me cope. My voice doesn't matter. I've never met a more unsympathetic or insensitive group of people. I hope you never feel like I do right now, cause some of you will.

Have a good life.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Good luck and good health to you. Yup, you have written somethings that came off harsh, but your opinion should have been just as valid and respected as others that are candid and don't coddle, who also come off hatsh.

I think LBT missed the boat on no cyber bullying.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Good luck and good health to you. Yup, you have written somethings that came off harsh, but your opinion should have been just as valid and respected as others that are candid and don't coddle, who also come off hatsh.

I think LBT missed the boat on no cyber bullying.

Funny you mention cyber bullying. If you only knew the what this person has pulled behind the scenes on here and Amazon. And I am sure what I know about is just the tip of the iceberg.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I've tried to tell my story here and been shot down over and over...I'm done. I suffer every hour with the damage done to me by this band. I swallow, it comes up, over and over again. I'm losing, but there's no celebration. I hurt, but there's no supportive words to help me cope. My voice doesn't matter. I've never met a more unsympathetic or insensitive group of people. I hope you never feel like I do right now, cause some of you will.

Have a good life.

I've tried to tell my story here and been shot down over and over...I'm done. I suffer every hour with the damage done to me by this band. I swallow, it comes up, over and over again. I'm losing, but there's no celebration. I hurt, but there's no supportive words to help me cope. My voice doesn't matter. I've never met a more unsympathetic or insensitive group of people. I hope you never feel like I do right now, cause some of you will.

Have a good life.

I'm so sad to hear that you've given up...my heart goes out to you and the complications that you are dealing with as a result of your band. I would love to keep in touch with you, if you are interested. Just PM me.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Funny you mention cyber bullying. If you only knew the what this person has pulled behind the scenes on here and Amazon. And I am sure what I know about is just the tip of the iceberg.

Perhaps you're acquainted with Dr Rachel Dees?

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I wonder about the surgeon, and if you were qualified to have the surgery to begin with. Sorry, but blaming the band seems a bit lame. There are too many unanswered questions here.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I have heard good and bad things about the band and I'm guessing its like winning the lotto there's a chance things will work out good an a chance they won't. Sorry to hear ur in pain one of my friends was telling me her friend had the same problem as u. Nothing worse than pain an frustration

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I've tried to tell my story here and been shot down over and over...I'm done. I suffer every hour with the damage done to me by this band. I swallow, it comes up, over and over again. I'm losing, but there's no celebration. I hurt, but there's no supportive words to help me cope. My voice doesn't matter. I've never met a more unsympathetic or insensitive group of people. I hope you never feel like I do right now, cause some of you will.

Have a good life.

I'm certain that your experiences are valid...your perceptions are your reality. We are each individuals, and no two of us will have identical experiences. I am sorry that you are experiencing complications with your band. But we do owe it to ourselves to understand the complications, and be proactive to decide on a solution path to resolve the problems.

I am currently experiencing band related complications. I understand the etiology of them, and am doing my best to manage my situation.

I question why it is that you feel that there is so much negativity with your posts. Perhaps it may be that there is a perception that your intent is to post negative comments instead of offering support, encouragement, and sharing with others your journey to resolve the band related issues you are currently experiencing.

I may loose my band, and if I do, it will be a sad day, but at least I would have attempted to do everything within my power to avoid having it removed. Despite my similar situation, I am not actively "bashing the band" at every opportunity, and perhaps scaring other "newbies" who hopefully would not have my similar experiences.

Perceptions of your posts may be quite different if along with your complications you posted about how you are actively looking for a solution path.

IMHO, we are much healthier emotionally when we empower ourselves to seek solutions instead of wallowing in our problems. And then scaring others by writing about complications which they hopefully never experience.

Whatever the eventual outcome with your band, best wishes to you.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I'm certain that your experiences are valid...your perceptions are your reality. We are each individuals, and no two of us will have identical experiences. I am sorry that you are experiencing complications with your band. But we do owe it to ourselves to understand the complications, and be proactive to decide on a solution path to resolve the problems.

I am currently experiencing band related complications. I understand the etiology of them, and am doing my best to manage my situation.

I question why it is that you feel that there is so much negativity with your posts. Perhaps it may be that there is a perception that your intent is to post negative comments instead of offering support, encouragement, and sharing with others your journey to resolve the band related issues you are currently experiencing.

I may loose my band, and if I do, it will be a sad day, but at least I would have attempted to do everything within my power to avoid having it removed. Despite my similar situation, I am not actively "bashing the band" at every opportunity, and perhaps scaring other "newbies" who hopefully would not have my similar experiences.

Perceptions of your posts may be quite different if along with your complications you posted about how you are actively looking for a solution path.

IMHO, we are much healthier emotionally when we empower ourselves to seek solutions instead of wallowing in our problems. And then scaring others by writing about complications which they hopefully never experience.

Whatever the eventual outcome with your band, best wishes to you.

I have posted about finding a solution, often. My objective is to encourage those considering a band to ask for a manometry test to screen for a predisposition towards these problems. This seems to be tied into hiatal hernia repair as well, so very relevant to our WLS community. I hope hope you are able to overcome your issues too. I've fought hard to keep my band, but it must come out.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Msmaui, I'm sorry to hear that. It must be a real disappointment for you. Are you going to have a revision?

As for the comment about the lotto...( for the newbies) you have twice as much chance of being struck by lightening than winning the lotto ( big $ I mean)

I believe the chances to live with a successful band story are much greater than that.

Best wishes to you.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I've read up on your condition,msmaui and I'm very,very sorry for you.

2000 ppl annually get what you have and the reports don't show one thing about those being banded. Also, out of all the reports I read, I did not find one thing about hiatal hernia repair being a cause of it.

Matter of fact, when it came to LBS and esophageal immobility (achalasia), most the time they say either patient already had it, b/c it can take years to develop , or patient compliance with the LB ( not my words,theirs).

So to bash LBS or call for expensive test b/c of a less than 1% chance, is like getting rid of every drug on the market b/c of their side effects.

Like I said, I'm sorry you have a problem and I hope its taken care of. But constant LB bashing is just not right. Maybe you can save 1 person this problem, but how many can die an early death from morbid obesity b/c you scared them to DEATH? The odds for that I'm sure are a lot greater.

Get treated. Achalasia can be treated. I'm wondering why your band has not already been removed and you treated?

Your experience is valid, as far as achalasia!

My grandaughter has a G & J tube, nothing to do with LB.

We support what your going through.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I've read up on your condition' date='msmaui and I'm very,very sorry for you.

2000 ppl annually get what you have and the reports don't show one thing about those being banded. Also, out of all the reports I read, I did not find one thing about hiatal hernia repair being a cause of it.

Matter of fact, when it came to LBS and esophageal immobility (achalasia), most the time they say either patient already had it, b/c it can take years to develop , or patient compliance with the LB ( not my words,theirs).

So to bash LBS or call for expensive test b/c of a less than 1% chance, is like getting rid of every drug on the market b/c of their side effects.

Like I said, I'm sorry you have a problem and I hope its taken care of. But constant LB bashing is just not right. Maybe you can save 1 person this problem, but how many can die an early death from morbid obesity b/c you scared them to DEATH? The odds for that I'm sure are a lot greater.

Get treated. Achalasia can be treated. I'm wondering why your band has not already been removed and you treated?

Your experience is valid, as far as achalasia!

My grandaughter has a G & J tube, nothing to do with LB.

We support what your going through.[/quote']

Thank you and I understand what you are saying. The difference is that I didn't have any symptoms or signs of this preop. My GI doctor believes this is caused by my band. My band doctor is seeing it in the last couple of years at an increasing rate. The hiatal hernia repair is relevant, since there is a wrap placed at the lower esophageal junction where the now malfunctioning sphincter is located. I didn't say the hiatal hernia repair caused it, but that there are various HH repair techniques that are specific to those with a predisposition to achalasia. I am going to be treated by one of the best esophageal specialists in the country, my appointment is Thursday. It's taken months to arrive at a dx. As you're familiar with the slow turning of the wheels of medicine, it takes time to be tested, tests to be evaluated. I've read the early reports of band associated pseudo achalasia, saying that noncompliance was the cause. This was an assumption, as my doctor put it. Since more cases are cropping up in patients considered to be compliant, the opinion is changing. How does a disease process that takes decades, manifest as end stage in a few months? BTW, I'm not bashing the band...I'm trying to create awareness that more testing before banding or HH repair is needed to avoid this type of complication. All of my medical team is on board with this assessment...thus I have posted the information so that others can benefit.

Thanks again for your kind words.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

MsMaui : I am TRULY Sorry your going through such Pain with your lap Band,

I have to agree about postings made to be informational, BUT instead ,are attacked as "bashing" If you presented here and said Don't get a Band!! you will have These complications..to me that is bashing..but again this is a public forum and you have that right, either way. I also find it amusing that support only comes in Cliques. If these "support groups" were truly for support/information then one would think that the "powers that be" would also post ALL new and relevant information regarding the WLS' on this site,not just the things that have a positive spin..But Why bite the hand that feeds you!

Only TIME will give us the answers...I PRAY you find positive ones soon!!!

~~~~~~~~~REMEMBER KARMA IS A GOOD THING~~~~~~~

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Ms Maui, hope you start feeling better soon! You post in the correct section: complications, so I don't understand why you get bashed so much.

It's not like you are posting in the pre-op section!

Continue to update us.

And no, I am not Ms Maui!

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

MsMaui you and I had a small run-in on a thread and you PMed me when I explained why I thought you had been negative. You were lovely and I really appreciated you clearing the air, so I feel like I know some of your motivations at least, and I do believe that they stem from frustration more than anything.

But from what I have seen here on LBT I can understand why your posts sometimes gets people's nose out of joint because there have been some that were fairly alarmist for what is in fact a rare condition, or about the inferiority of the band instead of your personal experiences. I think that for anyone who has put their faith in the band (and you need faith to succeed), or had success with the band, this makes them feel like you're insulting them, and their choices. It also makes them feel like you're saying they're stupid for their choice.

I am not saying you're actually saying that, but it can be how it comes across. I wouldn't wish what you're going through on my worst enemy and if I were you, I'd be damned angry and hell yes I would blame the band and want to shout from the rooftops so people know what might happen to them. But constant and repetitive posting of stats and opinion pieces on band failure and the band's inferiority *will* make it look like you're band bashing (see paragraph 2 above). You may not be able to see it, but I'm not part of any clique that I know of, and I see it. I have reacted to it, despite my usually cool exterior, so I'm telling you that's how it comes across.

I would love to support you through your complications, and hold your hand (virtually) when things get hard or you get down. Other have done that for me and more. I too got some interesting responses that weren't always what I considered supportive (and funnily enough these were more 'why are you not just revising to a sleeve?') but if you're really looking for support, you tell your story, you invite people into your life and empathy will follow.

Huge hugs, hunny.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now

  • Trending Products

  • Trending Topics

  • Recent Status Updates

    • Doughgurl

      2 days until I fly out to San Diego to have my Bypass Surg. in Tiajuana Mexico. Not gonna lie, the nerves are starting to surface. I don't fear the surgery itself, or the fact that I'm traveling alone, but its the aftermath that I'm stressing about the most, after this 8 week wait. I'm excited to finally be here, but I am really dreading the post surgical chapter. I know its going to be tough, real tough and I think I'm just in my head to much now that the day i here. Wish me luck, Hopefully I'm one of the lucky ones, and everything goes smoothly. Cant wait to give an exciting update,. If there is anyone else have a June bypass or even a recent one, Id love to have someone to compare war stories with. Also, anyone near San Antonio Tx? See ya soon with the future me. 💜
      · 1 reply
      1. Phil Penn

        Good Luck this procedure is well worth it I am down to 249.6 lb please continue with the process..

    • LeighaTR

      I am new here today... and only two weeks out from my sleeve surgery on the 23rd. I am amazed I have kept my calories down to 467 today so far... that leaves me almost 750 left for dinner and maybe a snack. This is going to be tough for two weeks... but I have to believe I can do it!
      · 0 replies
      1. This update has no replies.
    • Doughgurl

      Hey everyone. I'm new here so I thought I should introduce myself. I am 53y/o and am scheduled for Gastric Bypass on June 25th, 2025. I'm located in San Antonio, Texas. I will be having my surgery in Tiajuana Mexico. I've wanted this for years, but I always had insurance where bariatric procedures were excluded. Finally I am able to afford to pay out of pocket.  I can't wait to get started, and I hope I'm prepared for the initial period of "hell". I know what I have signed up for, but I'm sure the good to come will out way the temporary period of discomfort and feelings of regret. I'd love to find people to talk to who have been through the same procedure or experience before. So I look forward to meeting you all. Hope you have a great week!
      · 2 replies
      1. Selina333

        I'm so happy for you! You are about to change your life. I was so glad to get the sleeve done in Dec. I didn't have feelings of regret overall. And I'm down almost 60 lbs. I do feel a little sad at restaurants. I can barely eat half a kid's meal. I get adults meals often because kid ones don't have the same offerings at times. Then I feel obligated to eat on that until it's gone and that can be days. So the restaurant thing isn't great for me. All the rest is fine by me! I love feeling full with very little. I do wish I could drink when eating. And will sip at the end. Just a strong habit to stop. But I'm working on it! You will do fine! Just keep focused on your desire to be different. Not better or worse. But different. I am happy both ways but my low back doesn't like me that heavy. So I listened (also my feet!). LOL! Update us on your journey! I'm not far from you. I'm in Houston. Good luck and I hope it all goes smoothly! Would love to see pics of the town you go to for this. I've never been there. Neat you will be traveling for this! Enjoy the journey. Take it one day at a time. Sometimes a few hours at a time. Follow all recommendations as best you can. 💗

      2. Doughgurl

        Thank you so much for your well wishes. I am hoping that everything goes easy for me as well. We don't eat out much as it is, so it wont be too bad in that department. Thankfully. Also, I hear you regarding your back and feet!! I'd like to add knees to the list. Killing me as we speak! I'm only 5' so the weight has to go. Too short to carry all this weight. Menopause really did a doosey on me. (😶lol) My daughter also lives in Houston. with her Husband and my 5 grand-littles. I grew up in Beaumont, so I know Houston well, I will be sure to keep in touch and update you on my journey. I may need some advice in the future, or just motivation. Thank You so much for reaching out, I was hoping to connect with someone in the community. I really appreciate it. 💜

    • Alisa_S

      On day 4 of the 2 week liquid pre-op diet. Surgery scheduled for June 11th.
      Soooo I am coming to a realization
      of something and I'm not sure what to do about it. For years the only thing I've enjoyed is eating. We rarely do anything or go anywhere and if we do it always includes food. Family comes over? Big family dinner! Go camping? Food! Take a short ride or trip? Food! Holiday? Food! Go out of town for a Dr appointment? Food! When we go to a new town we don't look for any attractions, we look for restaurants we haven't been to. Heck, I look forward to getting off work because that means it's almost supper time. Now that I'm drinking these pre-op shakes for breakfast, lunch, and supper I have nothing to look forward to.  And once I have surgery on June 11th it'll be more of the same shakes. Even after pureed stage, soft food stage, and finally regular food stage, it's going to be a drastic change for the rest of my life. I'm giving up the one thing that really brings me joy. Eating. How do you cope with that? What do you do to fill that void? Wow. Now I'm sad.
      · 1 reply
      1. LeighaTR

        I hope your surgery on Wednesday goes well. You will be able to do all sorts of new things as you find your new normal after surgery. I don't know this from experience yet, but I am seeing a lot of positive things from people who have had it done. Best of luck!

    • Alisa_S

      On day 4 of the 2 week liquid pre-op diet. Surgery scheduled for June 11th.
      Soooo I am coming to a realization
      of something and I'm not sure what to do about it. For years the only thing I've enjoyed is eating. We rarely do anything or go anywhere and if we do it always includes food. Family comes over? Big family dinner! Go camping? Food! Take a short ride or trip? Food! Holiday? Food! Go out of town for a Dr appointment? Food! When we go to a new town we don't look for any attractions, we look for restaurants we haven't been to. Heck, I look forward to getting off work because that means it's almost supper time. Now that I'm drinking these pre-op shakes for breakfast, lunch, and supper I have nothing to look forward to.  And once I have surgery on June 11th it'll be more of the same shakes. Even after pureed stage, soft food stage, and finally regular food stage, it's going to be a drastic change for the rest of my life. I'm giving up the one thing that really brings me joy. Eating. How do you cope with that? What do you do to fill that void? Wow. Now I'm sad.
      · 1 reply
      1. summerseeker

        Life as a big person had limited my life to what I knew I could manage to do each day. That was eat. I hadn't anything else to look forward to. So my eating choices were the best I could dream up. I planned the cooking in managable lots in my head and filled my day with and around it.

        Now I have a whole new big, bigger, biggest, best days ever. I am out there with those skinny people doing stuff i could never have dreamt of. Food is now an after thought. It doesn't consume my day. I still enjoy the good home cooked food but I eat smaller portions. I leave food on my plate when I am full. I can no longer hear my mother's voice saying eat it all up, ther are starving children in Africa who would want that!

        I still cook for family feasts, I love cooking. I still do holidays but I have changed from the All inclusive drinking and eating everything everyday kind to Self catering accommodation. This gives me the choice of cooking or eating out as I choose. I rarely drink anymore as I usually travel alone now and I feel I need to keep aware of my surroundings.

        I don't know at what point my life expanded, was it when I lost 100 pounds? Was it when I left my walking stick at home ? Was it when I said yes to an outing instead of finding an excuse to stay home ? i look back at my last five years and wonder how loosing weight has made such a difference. Be ready to amaze yourself.

        BTW, the liquid diet sucks, one more day and you are over the worst. You can do it.

  • Recent Topics

  • Hot Products

  • Sign Up For
    Our Newsletter

    Follow us for the latest news
    and special product offers!
  • Together, we have lost...
      lbs

    PatchAid Vitamin Patches

    ×