I was glad that someone outside the US showed up for this forum. Our health system supports lap band surgery 100% as a way to prevent more costly health problems in the future. Much of the initial research was done here, and, as in Europe, the percentage of lap band versus gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgeries is much higher and with greater success.

I've been through the initial introductory group session, have had all the required tests done (including a psychiatrist's evaluation) and Thursday I go to meet individually with Dr Berglivter (you get points for pronouncing this correctly). From there they set a surgery date and meetings with the nutritionist.

My biggest problem is that I just started a really good new job. And I just took a week of sick leave with a kidney stone than doesn't seem to want to pass. The hospital where the procedure will be done is over an hour away from work, and I'm concerned about how much time I will need to take off for check-ins. How did the people around you respond to your need to do this, and did their expectations put extra pressure on you?

Also, I am an OA member of on and off 28 years. So much for the weight loss success of OA, but the suport is there. Have any of you depended on this combination of support? Support systems here in Israel are not as advanced or common as in the "Old Country".

Sivan

with 45 kilos to lose (oh get on the metric system like the rest of the world!:bored )

Oh yeah; most employers are amicable to letting you do what you need to do to get healthy. You should give them some anticipatory guidance (heads up) as to what you may need to do. Since you have to travel a bit to get to your provider, you'll have to plan a day off to go for an adjustment (fill) when it's due. You may do well for 2 months without an adjustment, or you may need to go in within 4-6 weeks. Then about every 2-3 months on the average, maybe you'll need to go in for an adjustment. Bare in mind, you might get overfilled and be too tight. Sometimes we don't realize that until 2 or 3 days later. Another trip back to your provider. So you see, there will be some juggling. My employer is very flexible, but I still had to use my sick leave to take time off to fly to my provider and get a fill.:confused:

:nervous Hi! Congratulations on your decision to lose weight! I know this hasn't come without great research and confidence in what you want to do. I admire everyone who steps over this threshold. It is a brave thing to do.

The thing is, there are unpredictable variables in weight loss surgery. We say hope for the best, but plan for the worst. Don't mean to be pessimistic, but there are about a fourth of bandsters who either have complications with their band, or struggle with the physical and emotional work that comes with food restriction and self control. 97% is attitude and a touch of resilience to try and help you slide through uncomfortable moments. So, whether you should proceed with a new job is 50/50 to do or not. One is an adventure with potential of disaster or at least risks, the other more secure parameters. But the adventure takes you through a passage that puts you on the inside of success. And that's a good feeling that makes it all worth it's while! Best wishes.:decision:

Hello Sivan,

Welcome and Shaloam! I know of several people who have several different support structures in place, and my Dr. encourages me to explore any avenue that will help me in my weitght loss. I believe that we are all very different and special yet there are common issues with obesity. Thats why support groups are so helpful.

Catalina, How did you come to the understanding of about one fourth of the bandsters have difficulties? Im curious about that statistic as I am discussing this with a friend that might do this and she is one that would be scared off with that stat. Im not challenging you I just need more info. Thanks.

Welcome Sivan

I hope it all works out for you.

good luck