My name is Angela and I'm a Lap-Band flunkie. I got my band a little more than a year ago and started off well. However a lot of life changes happened very quickly (marriage, moving, career shifts etc) and I haven't made time for any adjustments! Now living in VA I have to find a dr and have a consultation about my first adjustment. I have been able to sustain about 30lbs of weight loss, but is it too late for me? Any advice / support would be appreciated.:cursing:

First, you are not a flunkie! Good job on maintaining your weight loss. But, it is NOT too late! As you know, your band is just a tool, and the hard work is up to you. You choose what you eat. You choose how much you exercise. You choose whether or not to get fills. All you have to do is make a choice! Choose to be healthier and continue down your weight loss journey with your band! I know I'm making it seem very simple, but ultimately, it really is. Find a doctor in your new area and schedule an appointment to get a fill. If you aren't already tracking your calories and exercise, start doing that (check out www.thedailyplate.com). Take some small steps so it doesn't seem so overwhelming all at once.

Congratulations on your life changes...they sound like some good ones.

My daughter has been banded 20 months and has lost about 128 lb, but she takes time off from the band once in a while and then goes in for a fill to resume her weight loss after several months of no losses. The beauty of the band is that it is adjustable, so take advantage of it and get back on the bandwagon.

I have a cousin who got banded, and never got any adjustments until almost 2 yrs. after her surgery. She lost about the same as you have...but once she got her first fill...well she started losing weight fast, and now looks GREAT!!! So, it's not too late for you either.

Gee:

No wonder you haven't had time for a fill. You have made major changes in your life. You had to make some time for you and your new marriage and job, now when you feel like it, look for a new doctor. Don't be so hard on yourself, sounds like you are really accomplishing alot.:cursing:

Angela, that is the beauty of the band. When you are ready to start utilizing this wonderful tool, it is there and ready to help you achieve your goals.

ummm...that is more than i lost my first year, and i had 8 or 10 fills the first year. you are doing fine. we use tools when we need them to make our life easier. i don't think you are a flunkie for your progress and use of the tool you have. i admire you for the 30lb loss!

I appreciate all of your responses, and I am really feeling inspired! Thank you so much.:cursing:

Angela

I "flunked out" for 4 (yes, 4) years. My surgery was 3/17/04. I also moved and life got in the way. My new Dr. says the past is just that the past and now it's time to begin again.

I had my first fill 5/1/08 (4 years and 2 months later) to date I have lost 18lbs. I feel like I have a new lease on life.

Don't give up. If I can do it I know you can too.

It's NEVER to late! :smile2: