Hello, I am a 61 year old grandmother of 5 from Connecticut. I am going to the seminar on Friday. My hubby will be coming with me.

I'm wondering if after all the years of eating anything and everything I will be able to do fluids, soft foods etc. Have any of you had experience with this? I am 130 pounds overweight with diabetes II, osteoarthritis of the knees, and psoriatic arthritis which affects my hands and lower back. I really need help to get this weight off!

Bea:help:

Hi Beehive, I'm still several weeks away from "bandland" but I made my decision to go ahead with the surgery after reading all the posts in this great support group. Many people are able to "do it", eat a different way after a lifetime of free eating, and that inspired me. I also thought that many banded people are probably out just living their life, and not needing to get on websites for support - in other words just enjoying the fruits of their success. I appreciate the victorious ones on our site here that post in order to give advice, hope and encouragement to others. I think we see more of those seeking help on the boards though generally so it gives one the jitters about making this decision. I personally know two people with the band and both are very successful; they don't post on boards - they're out skiing, hiking, working, playing with the grandkids and one is finally getting married. I too NEED to get the weight off for medical reasons. I was determined a year ago to just "learn to love myself" fat, until my knees really went out, blood pressure real high, and so on. Now I need hope: the band "tool" and this great support group is my lifeline now. Let us know how the seminar goes!

Thanks for the comments and encouragement. I look forward to the seminar tomorrow. I know this is a forever move, and I'm anxious to find out more about it. Will let you know how it goes. Thanks again. Bea:kiss

Hi Beehive and Welcome to LBT... This is a great place to meet people that feel the same as you and are always ready to help with support... I also had those same worries about eating all the foods I have become acustomed to.. After reading tons of posts and hearing from some of the other ones, I think that if you do just what your Dr tells you to do post-op and let your surgery heal properly, it is my understanding that you will be able to eat what you want just less of it... With the exception of a few foods, like breads which are dry and stick easily...

Keep us posted on what the seminar says and when your surgery date is scheduled...

You sounded like me when I first started. Yes, you will be able to do the program if you really want to. The first few weeks go by pretty fast and then you are on your way. Good Luck and let us know what you decide to do.

You can do it - the first couple days on liquids you think - what the h---did I sign myself up to do but it passes and you will be glad you did it for you. It really does pass fast and now I am a month out of surgery and WOW I feel better already! I have not been sorry for one moment since I had the surgery! The best thing I have ever done for ME!