Hi Everyone! My DOS was 3/9/09 and I am in my second week of liquids only. I am a little scared about starting soft food next week, but at the same time looking forward to "real" food!:sneaky: My starting weight was 327 and I am already down to 314. Woohoo!! Dr. Helmuth T. Billy is my doctor out of Ventura, CA and I absolutely love him and his whole staff. I am so excited about this journey! Thanks everyone for sharing - it is so encouraging hearing about all of your successes!

Sincerely, Teri Toyama

hi i was banded on 3/9 also i started mushies this week. Are you getting hungry again yet?

That is a good question! I have not experienced hunger pains like I did pre-surgery, but I have had a sensation that I could only relate to hunger a couple of times. Since it was a few hours since I had any protein drink, I assumed it was hunger. But other than that, no hunger which is why I'm a little nervous about eating mushy next week. How about you? How is the mushy food going? What are you eating?

Hi there,

I'm going to have my surgery with Dr. Billy as well. I'm in the waiting for insurance approval stage and can't wait to hear I'm going to be scheduled. Had my appt with Dr. Billy today and he is great!

I live in Ventura, so if you ever just need to chat or would like an occassional walking buddy let me know.

CONGRATS!!! on both of us making decisions to save our lives!!

Hi Laya! I'm so glad to know you are there. It would be great to get to talk to you, anytime at all! I hope your insurance approval happens as fast as mine did. I have blue cross and Nancy told me it would be 3-4 weeks, but it turned out to be just 3-4 days! Are you planning on going to any of the support group meetings or exercise classes at Dr. Billy's office? If so, maybe we could meet there? Good luck and I'll be thinking of you! Teri