Hi. I was banded on November 4th and I haven't been following the post op diet. My MD had me on clears for 2 weeks now I'm on soft foods. Here's my problem, my father has just been diagnosed with metastatic lung cancer and was given a couple of months to live. He was diagnosed shortly after my surgery and now I'm eating out of stress. I really want this badly and now I'm afraid that I could hurt my band. I am a registered nurse and I know better. Please don't judge me. I will get back on track today, no more cheating. Any words of encouragement are greatly appreciated. Thanks.

I am so sorry to hear about your dad. This is a very trying time for you and your family, plus the holidays. Your stress level must be at an all time high. No judgment here, just get back on track.

Look for other avenues to relieve your stress. Walking, therapy, talking to a trusted friend, journaling are just a few things that can help.

Take care.

Thank you. I needed to hear that.

Everyone slips up. I slipped up today and had Papa Johns pizza with all the crust. I'm on mushies until Wednesday and thought I could go for it. Owwww. It hurts. I'm learning the hard way when you're not ready.

I'm very sorry to heard about your dad. Good luck. I will keep you and your dad in my prayers.

Hi RANIA. I'm sorry to hear about your father and I know this must be a very hard time for you. Many people eat when they are stressed out and I would never judge you. I'm sure you know what you should be eating - it is just hard not to fall into old habits. Go for a walk, rent a good movie, get on here and chat or welcome new bandsters.... just try to keep yourself busy. One day at a time... if that is too much - one hour at a time. I know you can do it. I can tell by your post how much you want this. If I can do anything to help you, please feel free to send me a message. Good luck. I too will keep you and your family in my prayers. Becky

It is understandable for you to slip up, especially in the beginning. I've not been banded yet, but have read many, many posts and from what I gather, this is the time for you to heal and that's why we have the special diet post-op. I'd say maybe go back to clear liquids for a day or two and then full liquids, then mushies again. Maybe this will restart your mindset...kind of a "reboot" if you will. Don't beat yourself over it. Just remember that this is a new day and a new beginning. Good luck to you and your family through this trying time.

thank you all for your responses. Today is a new day and I will get through this trying time. You all are awesome!0

thank you all for your responses. Today is a new day and I will get through this trying time. You all are awesome!0

I am so sorry to hear about your father and will keep you and your family in my prayers. I lost my 13 year old son to cancer not quite two years ago and understand the intense grief and helplessness you are feeling.

You have gotten good advice above. The last thing you probably feel like doing is exercising, but it can and does help with the stress a lot. Even a stroll type walk can do wonders for your spirit. Its hard, but be patient and kind with yourself during this time. And being kind to yourself means taking care of yourself by eating within your band guidelines. Carry food with you or have a plan each day for where and what you will eat. It gets tough if you are at the hospital, so you may want to buy some cans of tuna and packets of mayo or those microwavable bowls of Soup to carry with you.

You can also talk to your surgeon about what is going on. He may be able to refer you to a grief counselor or may recommend a slight unfill to help you get through this.