Hello everyone,

I am a 48 year old female, 5' 8", 238 lbs. and am about 80 lbs over ideal weight. I have not been banded but just had to say that this is an amazing site and I am very greatful for all the generously helpful people here. I probably wouldn't have the courage to get this operation if it weren't for all the help and encouragement given here.

After reading the health risks from being overweight I feel 100 percent on the positive side about this procedure. I have learned that is not a magic bullet and it will still take effort on my part to lose the weight but this I am hoping will be a powerful tool in helping to stop re-gaining the weight that we work so hard to take off! I like going to the gym but I don't like being the only fat person that's been a member for almost a decade.

I have an appointment with the NYU Medical Center in Manhattan. CIGNA pays 100% when you have it done there. (Would love to chat with someone who has gone here or plans to!) I am thinking positive thoughts that they will pay up. I am a grey area BMI though at 37/38 but I do have recent back problems and high cholesterol. I am only nervous about them not paying. Don't want to go into debt again. Was wondering which was worse being in debt for a decade or 80lbs overweight? I've come to the conclusion that risking a shortened life is worse especially when you still have young kids. I am excited about the health benefits of this procedure and of course the perks of fitting into clothes better. I know this has got to be healthier than using diet pills and over exercsing! Thank you all once again for your support!

Joan

NY

Anyone going on the boat trip in aug around NYC?

Hey Spunkywoman,

How have you been? I met you in the office a few months ago. I am down 65 lbs!!! and am very happy with that! When is the boat trip?

I had Dr Ren back in March 2004 - she was great - you didnt really see her too much - that was right before they had there big BOOM - but I did have good experiences with her staff. I never met Dr Fielding but I heard from others he's agreat man. Good luck!!

poop. i had to reschedule my surgical consult today. fortunately, i only had to push it off a week.

i'm just ready to get this show on the road.

Hey Spunkywoman,

How have you been? I met you in the office a few months ago. I am down 65 lbs!!! and am very happy with that! When is the boat trip?

congrats on the weight lose.......wtg . Boat trip is Aug 17,2008. Cal the office for details........

hope to see ya

hi everyone,

just got back from my appointment with dr. kurian. this is my second time at the NYU office and everything has been smooth sailing. (haven't had to wait at all for either appointment.)

met with dr. kurian (who is lovely) and we set a surgery date for august 14th. my esophogram is next week and the pre-op tests are on the 7th.

everyone seemed fine -- nilsa (the surgical coordinator) was v. together. we'll submit to my insurance for pre-certification next week and go from there.

yay!

checking ticker

hi i was banded on july 14th 2008 @ nyu by Dr. ren i just got my 1st fill on friday 4cc's i still feel kind of hungry is that normal im nervous that this will not work how many cc's can be put in the band or when should i start feeling full with a few bites i can eat a cup of food with no problem any advice!!!

go back right away and tell them how you're feeling. they'll probably put a little more fill in the band. if you're hungry--it's not exactly right yet.

good luck!