Hello everyone,

I'm new to this site will be banded on 12/2/04. Still a little afraid. never been under anesthesia. I'm 40 yrs old. 5'4" and 261. Have all the problems that obesity causes. such as band knees. lol, diabetes, htn. and so on. Glad i've made this decision just can't wait until it;s done. will have espophagel manometry on 11/22 last of preop tests. I'm up late because i'm presently at work. We'll I guess it's enough said.

Welcom, Fran! Where will you be banded and who will your surgeon be? You have made a wonderful decision to take back control of your life! I can honestly say this is the best thing I've ever done for ME! I now enjoy long bike rides and long mountain hikes. My health problems and meds. have been greatly reduced. That alone is saving me a fortune! I have hope and energy and feel like I can do anything that I really want to try. You will probably be on a roller coaster of emotions between now and banding time. You wouldn't be normal if you weren't! LOL It will really help you if you can start now: drinking as much water as possible during the day, but not drinking with meals or 1 hour afterwards, doing some type of exercise regularly that you enjoy, and making wise & healthy food choices. Start wearing all your favorite clothes, because very, very soon they'll be too big for you! Yeah! Best of luck to you!

Fran! Congradulations on your decision. You won't regret it.

Fran, congratulations!!! I am going to banded on November 30 and have found so much help and information from this board. Look back through all the old posts as there is a wealth of wisdom from all the adorable people who have gone before us on the band procedure. You will find not only information but support and love here for you and your journey. I look forward to seeing you posting and learning with us all as we start our journey to health, increased energy, more enjoyment from life. Welcome.

Fran,

I know its easy for us to say were done facing the prospects of the surgery but mine was a cake walk. You'll find being out under is very simple and before you know it your awake and your journey is started.

Good luck and keep us posted. Fill in your Signature on your profile so we can tell more about you.

Congratulations, Fran. You must be getting really excited, and yes, it's scary, especially the idea of general anesthesia. I remember the first time I had to have it, I was really scared. For me what helped was finding out who the anesthesiologist was ahead of time and talking to him about what to expect, my fears, etc. It really helped relax me quite a bit so that by the time I had the surgery, while I was still nervous, I at least knew a bit more what to expect. I wonder, would this be something you'd want to do?

Best of luck beginning your new journey as a bandster. I'm really happy for you, and more than a little envious as well.

Hi Marie,

Thanks for reply, Dr. Horgan in Chicago will do my surgery. And yes I am still very nervous. Praying things will go well. And yes I have in fact starting wearing some of my clothes in the closet that i haven't worn in a while. and some i still can't get my big butt into, but soon. And then i hope not for long.

Fran

thanks again

Hi Fran -- I live in Chicago, and while I had my surgery in Mexico, I'm seeing Dr. Horgan for aftercare. He's well-trained and has a lot of experience. Are you having the operation at the U of I hospital?

Good luck, and let me know if you need a local "bandster angel." I'm not very experienced (with the band, much less angel-hood) but I'd be glad to help in any way I can.

Hi Fran,

Congrats on getting a surgery date! I was banded 3 short weeks ago and am feeling GREAT! No regrets and everything went fine for me. I know that the pre-surgery jitters can be a little unnerving but just trust that this is happening for you now for a reason. I will keep you in my thoughts.

Good luck!

Kristy

Hello Everyone,

It's me again, Fran. And yes my surgery will be at the University of Illinois. It's getting closer. So how did everyone do on the liquids? I have to be on full liquids for 10 days prior to surgery. That's mean no Thanksgiving food. Oh well it'll be lost of time for that once my goal is reached in a year or so I hope. My goal weight is 140-150., So you see I have a long way to go. I really appreciate everyone here, with all of your good advice and support. I'm addictited to this site I check it everyday. I'm glad I found this site. Will keep everyone posted on my progress. :nervous

Welcome Fran! You will find tons of information here, just browse through some of the older posts.

Hi fran Congrats!! It will be great getting to know you, dont worry, we'll have you calmed down in no time

Fran,

The liquids weren't too bad, my doctor had me drinking Gatorade, so I got different flavors, that helped a bit. What made it worth it is the weight loss. I feel better, and the 20 pounds gone is wonderful! Good luck and keep us posted!

Hello Everyone,

It's me Fran again, just wanted everyone to know that tomorrow is my big day will be banded at 10:00 am feeling a little nervous, but hanging in there. Will post when home and feeling better. Here I go on my new journey. Take care.

Fran

:banana :banana :banana :banana :banana :banana :banana :banana :banana :banana :banana :banana :banana :banana :banana

Fran - Good luck tomorrow, and we will be thinking about you. Post and let us know how you are when you can. It will be over before you know it.

Fran, good luck to you! If you want, and if I can get away from work, I'll stop by tomorrow to say hello at the U of I. (Send me a PM or e-mail.) Your new life is about to begin!