Hello! I am a fellow lapbander and have lost 50 pounds. My surgery was July 21, 2008 and was done at Creighton University Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska. Dr. Ranjan Sudan did my surgery and has since moved to Duke University Hospital.The first 4o pounds came off very quickly and easily. Since then I struggle with going up and down the same 8 pounds. I can't seem to reach a happy medium on band fills, it is either too much or not enough. I know I am relying too much on the band to control myself and we all know it is a tool and not the magic pill!! I started out this life as a rolly polly baby and at 63 feel I have fought it my entire life. I am a 24 year type 2 diabetic with many health issues which is why I wanted the lap band surgery because weight loss is the answer to a healthy more fulfilled life. After 8 months I need renewed committment and more ideas, tools, and help from others going through the same struggles. I am going to try the 5 day pouch test program to try and ignite a flame and start moving forward. Has anyone done this, does it help, do you have any other suggestions? Thank you for your time, I'm looking forward to your help and any upbeat positive thoughts and ideas!! Thanks, Noel PS I would like to lose another 75 pounds. I weigh 263 now was 309

Hey Noel, I've tried the pouch test. I think it works. Basically, it gives you a sense of how litttle you should be eating. IMO, the big thing is that you're relying on the band to do all the work. You've already said you know this isn't the right way, so I won't harp on it. The best thing to do is start over RIGHT NOW and get back on the train. You can do it!

Hi Noel. I noticed you had your surgery in Omaha. Do you live here? My family and I live here and love the area.