WAgal

Just letting everyone who uses Fill Management NW that Kitty's husband passed away on Tuesday.

Our thanks to everyone for your support and understanding during the last few months. We will be back in the office next Tuesday.

Robin Martin

Thanks Robin for letting us know. Please relay my condolences to Kitty.

Hanna:)

HI CHINAMOM: WELCOME TO THE BOARD. I JUST HAD MY SURGERY IN TJ LAST MONDAY. MY HUSBAND WAS ABSOLUTELY GREAT ABOUT IT AFTER HE GOT ON THIS FORUM AND READ. I ALSO BOUGHT DR. ORTIZ BOOK AND WE BOTH READ IT. AS FAR AS TJ GOES, THAT WAS AWESOME. THE HOSPITAL IS EXCEPTIONALLY CLEAN AND EVERYONE TAKES VERY VERY GOOD CARE OF YOU. MY SISTER HAD THE BAND SURGERY THREE YEARS AGO IN DALLAS. WHEN I ASKED HER IF SHE WOULD DO IT AGAIN, SHE SAID, ABSOLUTELY, EVEN IF I HAD TO FLIP BURGERS TO GET IT (BECAUSE OF THE COST). SHE HAS LOST 90 POUNDS. THAT IS WHAT MADE ME DECIDE TO GET IT.

WHEN I TOLD HER I WAS GOING TO MEXICO, SHE FREAKED. SHE CALLED HER DR IN DALLAS AND WAS TOLD THAT HER DOCTOR WAS TAUGHT BY DR. ORTIZ AND HE WOULD DO MY FILLS. SHE STILL THOUGHT I WAS CRAZY, SO SHE WENT WITH ME. DO YOU KNOW ANYTHING BETTER THAN GETTING TO SAY I TOLD YOU SO...TO A SELF-RIGHTEOUS SISTER??? ABSOLUTELY NOTHING.. SHE WAS AMAZED AND VERY HAPPY FOR ME. SHE EVEN HAD A FILL WHILE I WAS GETTING MY SURGERY. HAHA

THIS IS NOT A LIFESTYLE FOR EVERYONE. THE POST-OP HAS BEEN HARD FOR ME HUNGERWISE. ITS HARD TO STAY WITH CREAMY SOUPS, ETC. BUT I HAVE WATCHED MY SISTER AND IF SHE CAN DO IT...I KNOW I CAN.

Hey Francie! It's Hanna (WAgal), remember I was there getting a fill and a crown implant. I'm glad all went well. How's your friend doing? The one that got banded the same day as you? It was nice of the couple, Stephanie and Scott to help me get across the border by riding MexiCoach... it was a life saver. I got across the border at 3:15pm... we made it to LAX with 15 mins. to spare for our flight. Lining up would have taken an additional hour or so to the trip back as it was very long when we saw it from the bus ride.

Keep us posted on your progress. The liquid stage is a drag but you also loose much of the initial weight at this period and it will be the reward for following Dr's orders... so to speak.. Hello to your sister.

Hey everyone... im having a really bad problem with losing my hair, i can pull handfulls out at a time.. its really bothering me.. cuz ive always had really thick hair an it keeps getting thinner and thinner.. i admit i wasnt taking my vitamins like i shouldve been doing but i have started them now is there anything that can help me than just the vitamins?

Hi all,

I too have been having problems with hair loss. Don't like it a bit! I read stuff online and people (possibly me) that are iron deficient is a reason for hair loss. Anyone heard of this? I've started taking iron pills two days ago and it will take a few weeks/months for the results. Please continue to post your findings as I will try your remedy if this iron deficiency is not the reason for my hair loss. Oh and yes I've read many times that stress will do it to you.

Jena,

Thank you for sharing. I have been feeling very overwhelmed myself with the busy-ness of life this summer. I did some food stuffing myself and the band simply reminded me that I can't do that! I just felt overwhelmed one morning and then started to eat some leftover chicken dish. Three quick bites and that feeling came... I stopped and it came all out. Didn't eat anything anymore until 3 or so hours later and felt better about my mental behavior. I love my band! You are priceless!

Hanna

I wonder how many of us are 50+? There are some aging challenges that we begin to face that our younger members don't have.

I am 54. challenge - medications that impact weight loss

Paula!!!! It's me, Hanna! How are you?

I know what you mean... I'm 45... going on 46 here soon and I tell you, I want to put on some skinny jeans and they just don't look right when you've got a flabby tire around your belly. I haven't specifically done the exercises just for stomachs but I will be. Okay the challenge for me is flabby skin!

OMgoodness Michelle! You look fantastic! Your skinny jeans! I love how they look on you! Yes definitely a hot mama! I tried on jeans too but they don't look as good on me as I remember. I'm gonna have to do the tummy tuck I think.. but not until I'm done with all the weight loss. I'll be in TJ for a 3rd fill and my crown put in on Monday... I'm only down to 172 but I feel good, I have been just busy with visitors and family stuff. Thanks Michelle! I hope the move will not be so hectic! You keep up what you are doing... you're almost there to a size 6!!!!

xoxoxo,

Hanna

Hey Bandgroupie! How are we doing on the planning of this... are we going to make it happen? Sorry I have been busy here at home... haven't been on the forum but a quick check here and there. Can you give us an update as to what we are leaning towards?

WAgal (Hanna)

Hey Beautiful Michelle! Wow, I love the pictures! I love how you do this visual progress report. I wish I was as savvy and had the time to do all this too but I'm doing what I can do with the web cam for my personal record. You look so fantabulous. I'm going to meet with the NW and Canadian bandsters tomorrow at noon. We'll be taking pictures and you'll get to see my black and white dress too when I post. I'm gonna try to do what you are doing. Buy a dress that's smaller to reach that goal (I'll need a zippered back style though) and then see the progress happen. It must be so rewarding to feel that you can finally zip up that zipper! I love that! Keep inspiring me/us!

I need a third fill. It's like most of the time I feel no restriction. Still feel good but need that "full" feeling. I can definitely eat more that 1/3 of what I'm originally used to before banding so I've got to get that feeling back. Overall I'm very happy that I haven't gained weight but can really get going on the weight loss. I'm getting jealous that you keep dropping the pounds!! He he he... I don't wanna be left behind!

Zulma... oh yeah... she's got restriction. She called me and then we exchanged info. via email. She definitely has restriction but has been very busy and tired .... kinda like me with little ones. I'm busy with baby showers and my backyard overhaul and slowly redecorating/reclaiming my nook since the girls have turned it into a playroom.

Hey Linda... how are you? Post some info about how you are doing. Oh and Zulma, if you are reading this... then post too how you have been doing. Okay I'm tired. I had a wonderful 4th of July cul de sac bbq ... great fireworks at my daughter's neighborhood (Charlene)... hope you all had fun and celebrated our great nation's 232nd Birthday!

hugs,

Hanna

Jann,

I'm praying for you and your parents as well! You're on the right track, have faith! Our Lord is in control.

Love and blessings,

Hanna

For all that are willing ..please pray for my Mom today. She goes in for a biopsy today for lung cancer. We could use any prayer anybody is willing to send up. Her name is Gracie and she is 63. We are praying for a miricle. Thank you in advance. Dawn

Dawn,

I'm late at reaading this but I'm praying all has gone well and that a speedy recovery is on the way! Keep us updated!

Love and blessings,

Hanna

Awww... we will miss you ladies that can't come but don't worry I will take pictures, you know me

So our count currently is 11 which includes me. Please PM me or post here if you are planning to come and have not posted so. It's never too late to come and join us and the restaurant has pledged to be accommodating for our group. Directions ahhh....

http://www.ivars.net/index.php?page=locati...ukilteo-landing

The above is their "Ivar's Mukilteo Landing" website and has the google maps for directions within their website. Okay... email me directly, ramilhanna@gmail.com and I will give you my cell phone number. This way you can let me know if you are having any problems looking for the place. I live but a 20 mins. drive from the restaurant so I can hunt you down and get you to the restaurant if need be if you find you are driving around in a circle... he he he... I'm a little dramatic. I'm planning to wear my new dress size 12! It will be so nice to swap stories and support each other through this. I've been wanting a 3rd fill since I'm at a standstill again!

Have a safe and wonderful 4th of July and also have a safe drive on the 5th for our get together. Sorry I haven't been posting much but I've been busy with activities from all my daughters! It's been a great sunny week here, expected to rain tonight and tomorrow then back to being sunny.

See you all soon!!!

Hanna:)

I'M DOING A NIGHT SECURITY JOB AT A FIREWORKS TENT ALL THIS WEEK AND FRIDAY NIGHT MY LAST NIGHT. I'D PLANNED ON RUNNING UP TO BELLINGHAM TO SEE OUR SON SATURDAY SO WHAT TIME IS EVERYONE MEETING AND WHERE? I'M GOING TO TRY AND FIT THIS IN

Hi Pammie!

Love your new photos again. We are still planning at "Ivar's Landing" in Mukilteo at 12 noon. I've reserved our group for that time frame. All in all I think this will be a nice place to do this get together. Directions to get there is on the internet by typing " Ivar's Landing, Mukilteo" on google. If you still need help let me know. I have been having troulble being able to post sometimes. The forum has been finicky.

Have a safe and Happy 4th of July and I'll see you on the 5th!!!!

Hanna

Hi all,

Yes we are on for July 5th, noonish at Ivar's, Mukilteo! I'm getting excited about this! I hope you are all doing well with our beautiful warm weather! I certainly seem happier!!! Yippee... the sun brings out the happiness in me. I pray all is well and that we will have a good turn out. SEE YOU ALL VERY SOON.

Hanna

How far is Mukilteo from Arlington? It is 2 hrs, from Point Roberts to Arlington. trying to figure in a fill after, or maybe just spend the night and get my fill on the 6th.

thanks Linda

Hi Linda!

So sorry for taking so long to reply. Mukilteo to Arlington is about 1/2 hour with okay traffic. We can definitely do something closer to the freeway if that will work out better for everyone.

Hanna

Hanna... congratulations! Size 12... :lb21: Can't wait to meet you. I will be camping for that weekend, and all I know is it's 20 min south of Mount Vernon. That's it, that's all. So I have no idea how far Arlington is. Linda... the fill center is not open on Saturday the 5th, and I'm not sure if they do fills on Sunday. I will most likely wait until Monday morning to get mine. I've just emailed them as asked if they are doing them Monday morning. I sure hope so! Looking forward to meeting everyone.

Thanks... Hey but look at YOU!!! You rock! Keep it up!!!!

Hanna

Hi everyone,

The producer from the Oprah Show emailed me and said it will be airing on around August 11, if it changes I will keep you all posted.

Thanks Jenn

Hey Jenn!

Thanks for the head up. I saw short clippings online somewhere but have wanted to see the whole show, now I'll get to. How's Britt and Diane doing? Hope all is well!

hugs,

Hanna

Darlene,

Yay!! 188!!! That's fantastic!!! Keep up the great work!

hugs,

Hanna:)

Carrie! You are doing fantastic! Can't wait to see your future postings and pics....

Hanna:)

IamWI,

Wow from 267 to 235 is great! You are on the right track and mindset already. Welcome, and glad to have you finallly come out and introduce yourself. The ladies and gentlemen here are funny. We have a ball and are very supportive!

Hanna:)

Blazn,

Congrats! You look hot!!! Keep up the great job!!!

Hanna

Thanks for your replys. It seems like food is going down ok but water is not! I take one sip of water and it feels like it gets stuck! Is this normal? I havent had any food do it just liquid. Has any one had this happen?

Britannia,

You aren't trying to drink right after eating are you? You have to wait an hour to drink after your meal. If you feel too tight before a meal then try drinking something warm 1/2 hour before eating. This seems to do the trick for me, in the mornings anyway. Not being able to drink liquids one hour after your meal or before a meal is not a good sign. You may want to consider getting a little unfill if this keeps up.

Hanna

Sparetire,

I can be there on the 19th to meet with you and your sis! I'm only 1/2 hour away so I can give you a hug and say hello and sip soup??

Snowbird,

Sorry... I responded to the gals that weren't able to make it but I'd love to see you too on maybe the August/Sept one once we decide after getting together on July 5th. I'm an admirer of yours too, like Sparetire!

Everyone else,

We are on for the 5th of July! Please let me know if you have a preference for a restaurant as I wish to please the majority not just my whims! I chose Ivar's since it's really got a nice view of the water by the ferry in Mukilteo, decently priced and great seafood.

I have great news.. I fit in a size 12... can you believe it???? I was trying on a size 12 skirt last week and I thought it was just a fluke because it was the style of the skirt but I really do fit in size 12 anything, yay!!! I'm so elated! I bought an elegant but simple summer dress at the outlet store from Liz Claiborne and I love it. I'll take a picture and show you guys soon. Trying to motivate you with this news... Again it's been over 13 years since I remember even fitting in a size 12! My weight is still 173 but the exercise must be reshaping my body 'cause things are fitting better! So ladies exercise even if you start out with just 15 mins. per session (which is what I did).

Hugs,

Hanna

Congrats Redhead on the restriction!

To everybody else, I guess we are sticking to the original July 5th date for our first meeting since a lot of you can't make the drive on a weekday! Now where to meet... I'm thinking at Ivar's in Mukilteo!

Okay, I'm making a decision here.

First Meet will be @ Ivar's Mukilteo at 12-12:30ish for lunch July 5th, Saturday

I will post more info.. directions. I'll call to reserve us so please respond with a:

ex:

Hanna, yes

I'm excited!

Hanna

Ok, some of the security rules have been updated. Let me know if anyone is still having problems and getting the dreaded "Forbidden" error.

Chad

Thanks Chad. I tried posting 5 times to an already existing topic but it really wouldn't let me. Maybe it was because I had a link to website in the reply... I finally just took out and started another topic. I just hope everyone will find it. Thanks for all that you do. We definitely don't want junk and spammers so yes we are patient with whatever you need to do.

A big THANKS!

Hanna

Okay... anyone up for meeting with Sparetire and Diane on the 19th????? We'll do Broosters since these young ladies are going to be there for a fill appointment. Others that are wanting a fill can try to schedule one on the same day and try to kill two birds w/one stone. Also we can shoot for an August date instead of July 5th, if this gathering works out for the majority. My schedule is open for the 19th of June and it is actually a Thursday and in about 10 days. Broosters is a nice local cafe that serves breakfast/lunch/dinner. If I didn't get your name on the list then add yourself and invite those that are interested (which is quite possible, sorry in advance). If you would prefer to stick with the original date of July 5th then please note on your reply. I just need to know what will work for the majoriy. PLEASE REPLY. Thanks all!

DATE June 19h, Thursday @2pm

Broosters, Arlington, WA

1 Yoyodieter-linda

2 Allcndgirl -anita

3 Dontondan -donna

4 mlgpdx -mindy

5 Bobbi

6 WAgal- hanna (good for June 19th or July 5th)

7 calicat-cathy

8 AmerLam - amber

9 Sparetire

10 Diane

11 Caro

12 Redhead, denise

13 Wagirl

I extend this invitation to:

a Snowbird

b Pammie

c LisaL

d Stephanie

e Suffina

add'l Arlington Fill info:

Robin got back to me about how they do fluoro's. Appointment only on Fridays between 11-12noon (without fluoro is more flexible in scheduling). No barium drink as they are not licensed to do this. They are hoping to get their own machine in the future and could get licensed for the barium drink if supply demands it. She reiterated that it's not necessary to do fluoro unless you suspect something is wrong and they use only if port is difficult to find to do your fill. Soooo with that said, please email Arlington Pharmacy and ask away questions before you come to do your fill that way there are no surprises.

Hanna