Hi all,

I've had an interesting journey with my lap-band. I had my surgery about 3 and a half years ago (Nov. 2005), and weighed in at 278. I lost about 50 lbs. before getting pregnant with my daughter in July of 2006. I had a perfect pregnancy and only gained 25 lbs. After her birth in March 2007, I quickly lost the baby weight and kept on going. I discovered my love of excercise and became obsessed with Jazzercise. I got down to 170 lbs. last summer and was so happy with my success.

Well, to my surprise, as soon as I reached my goal of 170, I found out I was pregnant with my son (who is now 3 months old). This pregnancy was rocky to say the least. From day one, I found myself insatiably hungry. After my OB discovered a placental problem that was causing growth restriction in my son, she ordered me to eat!! The more I ate, the better he grew...and he was born at a healthy 7 lbs. The only problems is that on delivery day, I was tipping the scales at 240 lbs.

I've managed to get down to 220 in the 3 months since he was born, but the weight is not coming off nearly as quickly as it did the first time. I've been feeling VERY discouraged, and wondering if I'll ever get back to my goal weight (which I only got to enjoy for a few weeks). And, even though I excercised through my entire pregnancy, my fitness level is WAY below what I worked for so long to achieve.

I know I should be counting my blessings that my son arrived healthy, but I can't help the feeling that my dream of being healthy myself is slipping away! Hopefully I can get back on track, and I'm hoping becoming a part of this online community will help!

Of COURSE you'll get back on track! You've already started. Losing 30 pds since the birth of your son is AWESOME. Remember your body has had quite the 'workout' over the last 12 months.

I'm SO impressed with what you've accomplished over the last 3 1/2 years...2 healthy babies, reaching your goal weight once, and you'll do it again. Sure it's going to take some time, but that you've got. From your story you've also the commitment to work the band and succeed.

This site is a great place to find help and encouagement, welcome!

I agree, you've done amazing so far! You sacrificed and was blessed with a healthy son. You may have gained but it was for a legitimate reason! You've been at goal once so you KNOW you can do it. Just get back into the right mind frame and try to remember how great it was to be at goal!