Hi everyone. Just want to introduce myself.

I'm a big fan of message boards from the days when I was low-carbing...when low carbing wasn't even cool yet! Anyway, I got lots of support and great ideas there so here I am looking for a new support group!

I am on the schedule for April 4th so in the meantime I'll be lurking around getting lots of questions answered, I'm sure. Thanks in advance to all of you for putting in the time, and especially to the moderators!!

I am self-paying and lucky enough to live in Houston where there is one of the finest bariatric surgeons in the country only few miles from my home! Dr. Spivak seems to be quite wonderful and I'm looking forward to working with him and his staff through this experience. I have 100% confidence in his ability and that is a huge load off my mind. Anyone out there who is a patient of his, I''d love to hear from you.

I "only" have 65 lbs to lose and realize this presents its own special set of challenges, so I'd be glad to hear from all of you low BMI'ers too!

I'll be seein' ya'll around!

Hi all,

No i was not banded by Spivak, but I live in Houston and too have wanted to find a support group here. I live near IAH/59 N and beltway. I was banded in june and have lost a little over 50lbs. You all are very lucky to be able to eat- I have not been able to eat "real" food before 4pm on most days. Due to stress my stomach tightens up and I really have to listen to my body and eat when I can. Ex: today is the first time I have been able to eat the meat of a $1 cheeseburger from Mc d's. Do ireally need that, no, but do I miss it- yes. Junk food does go down easier than what you need so you really have to be careful. Also check out unjury.com for protein- really good and I drink it daily! If I can help with anything please let me know. Good luck and you wont regret it. I was also a self pay and it hurt the pocket book, but I was sick of being fat. I still have 70lbs to go, but I didnt gain it in one year and need to take my time. This is not a cakewalk and this takes major adjusting. You learn how much of obesity is mental and you learn quickly that when stress is around you can't eat and it is hard!!! Good luck!:nervous

Hi, I think I will be a self pay too and it HURTS! Any way, how long has it been and how much have you lost? Any regrets?