Hi All, I've been banded 4 years now. I've lost 110 pounds, no issues. One year ago I lost my dad, six months after losing Mom. It had been 3 years of intensive health issues for both (they both lived good, long lives). This past winter, in a two week period, I also lost a student in a car accident, a cousin's wife was murdered, I was diagnosed with Crohns , and had to put my dog to sleep. In other words it been a couple really difficult years. I am just now starting to lift my head and move forward with a purpose. I'm realizing that I've gained 25 pounds. To 're-set' my brain and body I'm going on the liquid pre-op diet for a week. I figure it can't hurt, with refocus my head, and shrink my stomach back down. Hope this does the trick! I'm well into day two, and amazed how not hungry I really am! I'll keep posting a) to keep me honest and to inform. Wish me luck!

We are all in such a delicate place while trying to focus on our life long battle with obesity. You my friend have had more than your share of tragedies. I know right after my surgery I had the loss of my stepson due to suicide and a son in law to cancer. Followed by my husband having major heart surgery and knee surgery within a month of each other. I sometimes wonder how I made it through it all. I know that without my band I would have gained all of my weight back. As it was I maintained and have since gotten to my goal. I am always surprised by how much strength we all have just when we need it the most. God Bless you and I know you will get back on track and be fine.

It is difficult to cope with pain and loss without the coping mechanism we have used for many years.

I was 59 last year and was suddenly widowed... Without my band, I could have tried to cope in many unhealthy ways. After the intense pain, and the fog lifted a bit, I was just trying to get thru the day.... Without abusing anything.

I'm Thankful for friends and this board. Others have often been where we are and their experience helps when it feels hopeless.

Keep posting and keep trying to have good days run together. ????please know others care

PS. A good therapist is a great tool to have!

Yup, not an easy couple years but right now I'm only 10 pounds over my 'idea' weight. I think by doing a hard and fast 're-boot' it will get me right back where I need to be in my head. I never ate anything 'bad', just slowly started grazing. Example- peas from the garden....I demolished them, one pea at a time