robbynnoel

I had my first fill last week... really no restriction. I cant wait till i can get in and get another. I feel like there is a tiny bit there at least to tell me when to stop but I still feel I can eat 2 bowls of cereal in the morning before calling it quits. Anyone else get good restriction after the first fill? or have most of you had to go 2 or 3?

(((((((((((((((((IrishRN)))))))))))))))))

Welcome to Onderland! What great results you had in your first month being banded. That is fab what you've accomplished before your fill! My first fill is scheduled for August. I'm moving so I thought it would be easier to do the fill after the move. I am still in the honeymoon stage with the band where I feel as if I'm full most of the time but as the days go by, little by little I'm getting some hunger back. I'm sure I'll be so ready when the time comes in August.

Is anyone getting vitamin shots?

I started a new weight loss program on June 10 and have lost 10.5lbs.

My BMI is down to 28.9

My weight loss hasn't moved in 3 years.

This is the most weight I've lost in 3 years.

I really think it's the shots.

If any of you have read my history....I've had a lot of problems with my band.

I hope it's finally MY TIME to LOOSE WEIGHT!!!!!

((((((((((((((((Cleo)))))))))))))

This is wonderful news! Thank you for sharing.

Well, the first one was cake! Basically they asked me a bunch of questions, weighed me and all the jazz. Next time I get to sit down with the surgeon, Dr. T., and do the same thing all over. Basically that appointment was just to tell me that yes, I am fat, lol and that I do qualify for the surgery! Will you let me know how yours went?

(((((((((((((((((Alia)))))))))))))))))))))

My first appointment (pre op part one) was similar. It cost $325 (regardless of my decision) and I filled out some pre health paper work. The doctor took a photo and weighed me. At the time I was 258 and he let me know I qualified for surgery. My husband spent the entire time with me and then we went into the doctors office and spoke for about 60 minutes on all of my options (my original surgeon did all 4 procedures). He brought in a lapband patient and allowed me to talk with her directly. She was in the office for a fill...I don't think he normally does that, but maybe he does coordinate fills where he can bring in a patient to talk to a potential patient.

He then gave me a lunch bag, a water bottle, a login to a lapband support forum, vitamin samples to taste and a card that allowed me to order children side portions in restaurants.

He also gave me paperwork requesting blood work, an appointment with my regular md and an appointment with a therapist as well as my post op prescriptions (4 of them).

I guess I should note that I was self pay...

I was told I could begin my pre op diet at any time and I was encouraged to lose as much weight as possible even though my surgery had not yet been scheduled and would not be scheduled until after the blood work was completed.

I met with my md a few days later. Since I was self pay, my md was not in the same hmo as my selected surgeon. My md weighed me and I was 253 (because my surgeon said I could lose as much weight as I wanted) which believe it or not meant I was no longer eligible for surgery. It didn't matter because I was eligible when I first weighed...but I did think it was interesting that I was "that close".

So that was that and I didn't see my surgeon again until surgery day. My md charged $300 for my appointment (self pay because it was for weight loss surgery) and the therapist charged $325 as well. The prescriptions were over $200. The surgery price I was quoted was $7,500 for the surgery and $7,500 for 5 years of follow up and fills.

This is a long story, but there was a complication in the operating room...I had an allergy to the general anaesthesia and I went into anaphylactic shock so there was no surgery.

I started to feel uncomfortable with my doctor and I now weighed 237 so I couldn't get a US doctor to look at me...that's when I switched doctors and went to the OCC.

I booked my surgery over the phone and did the pre ops the day before the surgery. I was very nervous about another operating room scare but they were very careful with me and before they conked me out for good in the OR the anaesthesia doctor said "Robbyn, we've administered the medications. I can tell how far it's traveled into your body and I can see you have no sign of any reactions. We're putting you to sleep now."

And then I woke up and the only reason I believed I had the surgery is because it felt like an elephant had stepped on my stomach.

But that pain goes away rather quickly.

Good luck!

What a FUNNY post.....and, believe me, I could use a good laugh today. I was supposed to get my 4th fill today (scale hasn't moved in weeks) but I ended up pb'ing last night so I thought I'd better cancel. My band has been so out of whack lately... I feel like I have no restriction yet I still PB now and then....on things that just the day before were fine . On top of that, or perhaps because of that, my stomach is all irritated and achey and I'm hunting all over the internet for what could be wrong with me (gastritis is one complication of banding) and I'm making myself crazy! Warning, if you're a hypochondriac like me, being banded will mean constant worry.

I know that after a bad PB you should go on liquids for 24 hours and I tried today but I only made it until noon and that was it!!! I just wanted to CHEW and I DID....and I pb'd AGAIN!!! .Lord knows how I ever survived the 21-day liquid diet. I think I should go on the liquid/maalox diet (how much Maalox do I take?) until things settle but I feel like I just don't have it in me right now. I'm completely stressed for various reasons, and I feel frustrated with my band and totally discouraged....which is stressing me more. I was down to 190 last week and now I'm at 194 and unable to get a fill . Anyway, I'm trying to stay positive and not to feel sorry for myself but I am so worried about what is going on inside my body. I keep thinking there is something wrong despite nothing showing up on fluoro.

Thanks for letting me vent.

Sabrina:)

Whooops...I forgot to answer your Maalox question. I'm not an expert on this but this may help. Many moons ago, in a land I like to call pre op part one I was told to take 3 tbsp of Maalox at noon the day before my surgery and drink clear liquids "only" for 1 day.

Then stick close to your home.

xo

What a FUNNY post.....and, believe me, I could use a good laugh today. I was supposed to get my 4th fill today (scale hasn't moved in weeks) but I ended up pb'ing last night so I thought I'd better cancel. My band has been so out of whack lately... I feel like I have no restriction yet I still PB now and then....on things that just the day before were fine . On top of that, or perhaps because of that, my stomach is all irritated and achey and I'm hunting all over the internet for what could be wrong with me (gastritis is one complication of banding) and I'm making myself crazy! Warning, if you're a hypochondriac like me, being banded will mean constant worry.

I know that after a bad PB you should go on liquids for 24 hours and I tried today but I only made it until noon and that was it!!! I just wanted to CHEW and I DID....and I pb'd AGAIN!!! .Lord knows how I ever survived the 21-day liquid diet. I think I should go on the liquid/maalox diet (how much Maalox do I take?) until things settle but I feel like I just don't have it in me right now. I'm completely stressed for various reasons, and I feel frustrated with my band and totally discouraged....which is stressing me more. I was down to 190 last week and now I'm at 194 and unable to get a fill . Anyway, I'm trying to stay positive and not to feel sorry for myself but I am so worried about what is going on inside my body. I keep thinking there is something wrong despite nothing showing up on fluoro.

Thanks for letting me vent.

Sabrina:)

((((((((((((((((((((Sabrina)))))))))))))))))))

Wow...all of my friends are becoming so skinny! I'm so proud of you. I don't know how I survived the liquid diet either...I honestly have no idea. I can't even imagine doing that again.

EVER!

lol

You look amazing. I love the reunion photos. Just wait...someone, some day will call you a skinny "b" thinking they are insulting you and you will hug and kiss them.

I'm so waiting for that day.

Hang in there. This is a long journey. I believe in you.

ok here it the update..... I HATE SCALES!

This morning I woke up not feeling really great about gong and stepping on the scales, however I did. I am now at 201.2. ugggggggggggggghhhhhhhhh. I guess it is back to staying off the scales for a couple of days and stop STRESSING on the 199. I know that is the problem and I just need to live life ! Ok so I am not going to weigh until Monday morning and see how I do, this will give me a couple of days to try to keep my mind off of weighing.

Thanks for the posts everyone!

To be continued............

Carrie

((((((((((((((((((Carrie))))))))))))))))))

You are so cute. You are doing an amazing job and you've come so far. Maybe you should take a trip to Victoria Secret so you can see how adorable your figure is? I bet your beating your SO off with a stick! A bedroom date to celebrate your continued success would be the perfect reward for both of you.

xo

Everyone knows that one of the major milestones is getting under the 200 lb mark. I have been fighting for this for SO long. I dont think I am ever going to get out of them. I have been struggling to get below since my 6 month weigh in on May 14th. , I was at 207 at 6 months. Well I received fourth fill on Saturday and I just new this monring was going to be the morning.

As soon as my eyes popped open I jumped out of bed and RAN to the scales. Put one foot on them and took it off. Removed all my clothing and thought, hmmm what else can I do, soooooooo I know, go pee!...I went a squeezed everything that I could possible get out..lol and RAN back to the scales. Took a deep breath and step on them. Closed my eyes and opened one eye and then the other, mouth dropped to the floor! 200.0 !!!!!!!! I was so freaking MAD! ...... 200.0 ......U GOT TO BE JOKING! OMGoshhhhhh am I EVER going to get to 199..lol I started to go put them in front of my car and run them over! but then I thought......tomorrow morning, I have tomorrow morning....Im feeling lucky and I will let everyone know in the morning!

Keep your fingers and toes crossed for me guys!

Carrie

((((((((((((((((Carrie))))))))))))))))))

Hugs to you. I've been there. My lowest weight in the last five years was 200.2. Oh I remember it so well. Then I went on a business trip to a place with cocktails (complimentary) each evening and that was the end of that.

Trust me. You weigh under 200 lbs. a trip to the nail salon for a nail clipping and supercuts for a trim and you're there.

YOU ARE IN ONDERLAND. I love how you called it the terrible 2's. Too funny.

If I had to do it all over again (and eventually I will...) I'd give myself the victory and tuck the scale away for a week or two or three ...whatever feels right... and make my new goal 189!

xo

I'm 4 days from my surgery and I ate. I mean- I didn't have my shakes for a whole day- and I really ate. (Stupid STUPID GIRL)

I know the point of the pre-op diet is to shrink the liver as well as to lose weight for the op- so will I have disqualified myself for surgery as the liver will (maybe) now not be small??

Oh I'm freaking out they're gonna turn me away on friday!!

help!

((((((((((((((((BenjiGirl)))))))))))))))))

Hugs to you. I hate to admit this but I was far from perfect during the pre op diet. I was a mess of emotion and I just wasn't mentally able to have the strength of my convictions to follow as it was laid out for me.

I have read several boards, I don't recall a post from anyone who said they got to the operating room, they were cut open and then they were closed up because the surgery couldn't be performed.

My best advise is to hang in there. Don't beat yourself up and follow as closely as you can from this moment forward. The water weight will come off fast fast fast so it's not too late to really put a dent in.

If you do find yourself swaying...for now, stay as far away from carbs and liquor as possible. I'm not an expert by any stretch of the imagination but I suspect that what you consume the days, hours prior to your surgery is far more important than following the pre op the first couple of days.

Hugs to you. I believe in you. Please keep in touch.

xo

Hi Dana & Everyone...My band date is 7/15/09 and I just wanted to say how much I have enjoyed reading all your posts. There is allot of good information here and I love how different everyone is and how each person has their own story to tell. I am extremely nervous about my surgery and have started getting emotional since the day was set. From what I have read from you all that is a normal response. I live alone, don't have any local friends, and my family is about 4 hours away. My boyfriend lives 1 1/2 hours away and I just see him on the weekends so sometimes I feel lonely and overwhelmed at starting this journey by myself. Although I don't know any of you, it is comforting to know someone is going through, and has gone through, what I am about to experience.

Well I just wanted to say thanks for coming back each day and telling your stories. It is an inspiration for those who have not been banded yet and a wonderful source of information.

(((((((((((((((((((Susan)))))))))))))))))))))

I'm so excited for you and your upcoming band date. I can absolutely relate to what you're going though. I have to admit, I'm 1 month post op and I'm so glad I had the surgery. I feel wonderful plus I weigh less, what could be better?

xo

Please keep us updated.

Well the day is finally here. I am about to cross over to Tijuana and go see the plastic surgen for my pre-op. I am a nervous wreck and my band is letting ne know to take it easy. I am so thight right now I couldn't even get a scrabbled egg down. OMG tomorrow is it. Can't wait till its done. I will let you all know how it goes. Wish me luck and a little prayer is very appriciated. Love u all bunches.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((Denise)))))))))))))))))))))))))

Hugs! I'm so excited for you. Please let us know how everything is progressing.

xo

Robbyn!

Glad to hear from you and WOW how time flies. I am glad that everything seems to be picking up for you, that is such wonderful news! Keep your head high and hang in there, you will do great! As far as the fill, please dont be scared. I was too and then after I got it, I was like hmmmmm is that all!....lol My birthcontrol shots that I use to get was worse!...

Best wishes to you!

Cant wait to hear how it goes!

Carrie

(((((((((((((((((((((Carrie)))))))))))))))))))))))

Hugs to you. I have to give you credit for me having the strength to put away my scale. I think about your "living my life" post and it just made so much sense to me. It was like you were talking to me.

Thank you for being so supportive. Now that I feel better my appetite has come back so I am getting to the point where I can "see" myself being ready for a fill. I scheduled an appointment with Dana's doctor in Dallas the first week of August. It feels so good to finally feel like myself and I'm so proud of myself for following through and getting the lapband. There are so many things that happened that would have made it so easy to have opted not to have the surgery (which I did try to cancel about a week before the big day because I was scared). Thank god for you and everyone else who has just been so supportive of me and everyone elses journey.

So glad you were able to get it figured out! As you described how you are feeling that totally makes sense. Hope you get to feeling better and what a great NSV to get taken completely off the meds or close to it only one month out!

(((((((((((((((((Shelby)))))))))))))))))

OMG you skinny thing. I love love love the new avitar photo. You are so glam. I can't even begin to explain how utterly sobering it is (for lack of a better term) to be able to reduce my morning medication ritual. From a 20,000 foot level, after losing 80 lbs total, it makes sense but since I've been on this journey for 2.5 years, it's hard to remember that when the weight came off slow it was hard to really see the changes that my body was making. Althought at this time last year I was lighter (then I ballooned up and thus decided to get the band) the weight did fall back off very quickly over this past month so it helps me understand a little more why...plus to be honest, I may have weighed 212 this time last year (a little lower than I am now...but not much) but I wasn't eating high quality foods. I rarely cooked at home and so on.

Now I cook at home much of the time and because of that, plus the band rules of protein first, I'm making far better food choices. 1200 calories is 1200 calories but I was the master of filling a 1200 calorie day with 12 100 calorie snacks before I got banded.

HI ROBBYN

GLAD TO HEAR YOU ARE DOING WELL , NOW YOU HAVE SORTED OUT YOUR MEDS.

I CAN'T BELIEVE EITHER THAT IT HAS BEEN A MONTH SINCE WE WERE ALL DOWN IN MEXICO.

I WEIGHED MYSELF TODAY AS MONDAY IS MY WEIGH IN DAY, I LOST THE 3LBS I PUT ON AFTER THE LIQUID DIET SO I AM HAPPY. I MEASURED MYSELF TOO AND HAVE LOST 3 INS FROM EACH AREA SO THAT MAKES ME FEEL EVEN BETTER.

I WILL BE HAPPY WHEN I GET A FILL (SCARED TOO) AS AT THE MOMENT IT IS JUST ME SAYING NO TO FOOD WHICH IS HARDER SOME DAYS MORE THAN OTHERS.

MY DAUGHTER HAD A BIRTHDAY PARTY ON SATURDAY AND MY FRIEND POSTED PICS ON FACEBOOK OF ME SO I CAN SEE I STILL HAVE A WAY TO GO

TAKE CARE

TRACEY

(((((((((((((((((((((Tracey)))))))))))))))))))))

Hugs! I'm so happy to hear from you. Add me as a friend on facebook (link is in my signature) if you haven't already so I can see the pictures. I'm sure you look amazing. I wish I would have taken pictures of you and Lena in the hotel. I'm also glad you lost the water weight you gained the few days after transitioning to solids. I think most of us have that happen. I think the small gain has to do with the transition from weeks of virtually zero calories to solids. I knew you'd lose it quickly but seeing the scale spike up can be a downer.

Please keep in touch!

xo

(((((((((((((((((((Hugs Everyone)))))))))))))))))))

It's one month post op for me. Wow...I can't believe it's been a month. I'll be honest, up until a few days ago, I felt miserable. So miserable I allowed myself to completely forget why I took this journey in the first place. More often than not I was in a serious state of regret.

Then again...I'm probably a big baby.

I was so dizzy I couldn't stand for any length of time, not even long enough to do dishes. I really couldn't do anything. Thank god my husband and family was supportive. I don't have a regular job right now...it's a good thing, because I seriously couldn't function.

I ended up catching the flu (which allowed me to explain away the dizzyness) and because we had pre paid for a family vacation in Disneyland we went even though I really wasn't up to it.

My first day at the park (last Thursday) I was so miserable I couldn't even stand in a line for any ride (and I did try). I was just at the end of my rope. I emailed Dr. Miranda and told her my symptoms and she emailed me back (and copied Dr. Ortiz) and said my symptoms were similar with low blood pressure and to contact my general doctor locally.

Ding Ding Ding...talk about a light bulb going off over my head.

So here's the gist. Several years ago when I weighed 294 I was diagnosed with high blood pressure. I was prescribed not one but two different meds (both durietics). Now the other symptoms that were similar to that of low blood pressure are that of chronic dehydration (that's what my friends thought) so here I am, 400 miles away from my doctor and miserable. I decided to not take my blood pressure meds (because of the durietic too) for a day to see if that helped at all and remarkably enough...it did.

So now I feel great. I will see my doctor in the next couple days. I'm not saying my high blood pressure has been completely cured...I'm sure I need to take a smaller dose or just take one of the two meds but either way, I do need to see my doctor to get a good handle on what my blood pressure is today a few days off the meds and re-evaluate what I need.

I can't believe it but I'm so happy. My ankles are not swollen at all which normally happens when I miss a day of my meds.

The thing I haven't done though is get on the scale though. I don't want to lose my motivation to follow the rules of this program especially now that I've really seen the value of the band...and here's the biggest thing...

I am so happy I got banded!

So very happy.

I am still scared about the first fill though.

For lunch, try this - 1/2 cup refried beans, 1/2 cup garbanzo beans, big chunk of chicken, - If you fight the sweet-tooth like I do, chase all this down with a small piece of dark chocolate. If that's not enough, have another piece. If that's not enough, to bad - make it enough. Get a 30 min walk/run - Feel full and energetic

Socal Kid (Feeling good finally)

http://explore.twitter.com/Tkennedy

((((((((((((((SoCal))))))))))))))))

That sounds yummy. I'll have to give it a try. I'm glad you're feeling good.

I can barely stand it!

I'm now just over 3 months post op, and it's getting worse.

The pain in my left shoulder is horrible ... I've been taking OTC muscle relaxants, and it does work (i think), but it also puts me to sleep.

I've read that this is fairly common .. i just want to know WHY, and will it ever go away?

And how can I control this horrible pain.

HEEEEEEEELP

(((((((((((((((Lindsay))))))))))))))))

I'm so sorry to hear that. Is the shoulder pain gas? I don't recall, did you just have a fill? I'm wondering if because of the fill you're tight like we were after surgery.

xo

Cassie's success is inspirational. Thank you for sharing the photos. Be sure to share with her how proud we all are.

well, its been 7 months since my surger and I've hit my first major milestone. I now weight less than 200lbs! AND I"m now, officially no longer obese!! Yea! My BMI now falls in the OVERWEIGHT category.

Funny thing happened. Last October 20th we had our fall meeting. Well, the chairs in this place are these very light aluminum (sp) chairs with curved arms. I went to stand up and the chair came with me .. That day is when I decided to have my surgery. Fast forward 7 months and we have our spring meeting. That very morning went under 200. And guess what? My hips didn't EVEN TOUCH the sides of the chair. Coincidences? I don't think so!!!!! It was a sign that this has all been worth it.

I am losing VERY VERY VERY SLOWLY. Probably 1-2 lbs per month since the initial 20lbs right after surgery. This frustrates me, but I guess I just need to accept it because as much as I hate to admit it I am not exercising and really I just eat whatever I want, only in small portions. I know I might get some negative feedback on this, but at least I'm being honest. I had to stop obsessing about food and dieting and now with this way of life I don't have to focus on it.

So, I am very happy! I"m moving this weekend which will eliminate my 3 hrs commute each day in the car and I plan to add some regular excercise. I think this will speed things up!!!!!!!!!

((((((((((((((((((((Cindy)))))))))))))))))

So many happy messages on the board this morning, it's very motivating. What you've accomplished is huge. I'm so proud of you and welcome to Onderland. I hope to be joining you soon.

xo

So I have been stuck between 180-185 since March. Had a fill up north (blind) and they got me too tight so went back and they took too much out without being honest with me. So I went back to Olympia (my favorite place) and got two small tweaks in May. Now up to 3.9cc and I got back on track, but I was still dealing with the aggravation of not getting under 180.

Now I knew this would happen as even before the band back in 2002 I was 180 lbs and could not get under it, so somehow I knew this would happen again. Well this morning I felt different, as Denise classically says "I felt skinny" LOL

Got on the scale and I am at 178 lbs...

I am thrilled to death! This week I will have to stay on top of things and keep that momentum going, I know for sure, but at least I am starting to lose again.

I just wanted to share so that all of you who are STUCK at a plateau for a few months (as I have been since March), do not give up and do not stop doing what you are doing. I have kept up the running and am starting to lift light weights again. My hips are down to 39 inches (woohoo!) from a high of 47 inches last July AND I have lost 10 inches around my waistline.

So even if the proverbial pounds are not dropping, it does not mean that you are not losing inches and the weight will catch up.

oodles!!

(((((((((((((((((((LisaLaw)))))))))))))))))))

I'm so happy for you! That is wonderful wonderful news. The loss of 10 inches from your waistline is huge alone but to have broken the plateau too...wow.

xo

After almost two years of living the "banded" life, the only certain fact is that NOTHING is certain! It’s almost as if my band has a mind of its own and what I couldn't eat for lunch slides right through for dinner. What felt right for breakfast causes pain for lunch. I do know this though; over the past 2 years, I have lost a good amount of weight and am much healthier than before. And so it goes - Be patient and don't take it to seriously...

Great father's day - I ate & drank all I wanted, when I wanted it. I reward myself with a couple of FREE days a week. Time to knuckle back down for a strong next 3-5 days. WILL exercise today!

Socal Kid

http://explore.twitter.com/Tkennedy

((((((((((((((Socal Kid)))))))))))))))))

Sounds as if you had a wonderful father's day! It's wonderful you've had success with the band and you know you are healthier!

> Hello buddies! I am SOOOO excited right now! I am leaving my house in about two hours to go to my very first lap band appointment. I am trying the insurance route before we dive into the Mexico route (which I would rather do, but my wallet says otherwise) I hope all goes well, I have a good feeling and have learned to trust my gut several years ago. YAY LAP BAND! WOHOO! I have recently been doing a little extra research on gastric bypass as well... I figure the more information I have regarding any of this the better off I am... Bye for now, I will re-post and let you know how this appointment goes when i get home!

(((((((((((((((((((((Alia)))))))))))))))))))))

Hugs. I'm so happy for you. Please keep up posted.

xo

(((((((((((((((Finally)))))))))))))))))

Congrats on your first fill. I feel better after seeing your post. I'm scared to get my first fill...so scared I'm thinking about postponing it further than I already have.

Of course I've only been on solid food for a few days and since I haven't had any problems I'm fearful of getting stuck and scared to death about PB'ing.

I'm so glad you're happy and this is working out well. I follow the same rules you are but I do carry trail mix in my purse in case my family makes a food stop or a meal is delayed.

Tomorrow we're off to Disneyland. I plan to focus on deli meats, string cheese, trail mix and crackers. I've been lucky with them so far.

((((((((((((((((Holly))))))))))))))))

Hugs to you. I can relate. I can relate even to the point where I asked myself "What the xxxx did I do to myself!" I have to admit that I did convert to solid foods two days early. It was because of naucea. I just couldn't shake it. Well I still can't but I think it's because I have the flu.

Hang in there. It will get better.

So for all of you that dont remember my family drama, I moved my mother out of my sisters house about three months ago when I found that my sister was living off her soc sec.

Well the drama continues, now I found out that my sister is liquidating all my mothers belongings. She would not let us take most of her stuff when we moved her out. Now I find out the trailer mom was living in there, the one she paid for with her soc sec money is now gone.

My stomach hurts. I feel gross. I am so angry. All the sudden it felt like my band got tight. This cant be good for me to be this mad. I knew she was gonna do it, I just didnt want to believe it. How could you do that to you own mother?

I just want her to pay for what she has done. I am shaking. I called her and left her a nasty message, it did not make me feel any better. Should I go run around the block or something. Should I punch something. Should I cry? My poor mom.

I feel like I am going to throw up. I am not sure if I should try to eat something. Maybe I should stay on liquids until I calm down. I have felt like this since last night, when I found out.

How do you handle high stress? What is the best thing to do to make sure you dont hurt your band?

((((((((((((((((((((((((Stormy)))))))))))))))))))))))))))

Hugs to you. My heart goes out to you and your mom. I wish I had words that would take everyone's pain away.

xo

Hey everyone! So, had the lapband yesterday at the OCC with Dr. Ortiz and Dr. Martinez, who may I say are very two hot men, always a perk! I cannot say what a wonderful exprience it was and continues to be as I am here just resting at the Lucerna.

My fiance and I parked at the Border Parking as we drove in from Long Beach and it only took us less than two hours to get here. The shuttle was already there waiting for us and when we stepped in, a prior patient, Kristy her mother, Billlie who was gettin banded that day too, greeted us with their gorgeous smiling faces. You two are awesome!

The OCC is literally right into the border, so close that I looked to my left side to catch the beginning of the long line of cars returning to the U.S when the van stopped and to my shock we had arrived already.

The hospital is super clean. The staff is wonderful, so professional and personable. I felt so loved ad taken care of. My room was great! I felt like I was at home with a mini sofa and a flat-panel screen tv and one of those meditation water gadgets that play relaxing sounds. My fiance was blown away because he was apprehensive about the entire thing and especially because it was of course, in Mexico. Dr. Ortiz's mother came in and was such a sweetheart to put a blanket on me. Then came in Dr. Ortiz and followed Dr. Martinez who individually consulted with me. They are a plethera of information.

What I did learn though from the doctors is that I asked about the actual lapband itself and they said they stopped using the regular lapband and are now using the newest technology of the band which i called the REALIZE band. They have been using this new one for the last two months and Dr. Ortiz told me that they and a doctor in Georgia are the first ones to use it. It's manufactured by Johnson&Johnson so I gotta look into that.

The procedure went smoothly and I decided to leave the same day of surgry and leave for Hotel Lucerna right after. The first night was uncomfortable for me as I have a lot of gas pain and I had to take a sleeping pill along with the pain meds they adminstered through my i.v. before I left. I sipped on some of their good chicken broth before going to bed but only a few spoonfulls. Same thing today with also a few sips of apple juice. I kinda feel nauseacous but maybe it's just because I'm tired but the gas is keeping me up. My tummy keeps rumbling so I'm trying to keep sipping my soup. I'm gonna get some popsicles later.

Ooh, I also discovered that room service is free here at the Lucerne for whatever you want to order, which of course would be mostly for your companion as my fiance did, ordering hoards of delicious food while the smell and sight of it was torcher. You only have to pay gratuity. It's nice because we don't even have to leave the hotel room.

Does anyone know how long this gas thing lasts and if being nauseacous is okay? I'm thinking it's moreso my port area and that pain is just traveling.

(((((((((((((((((((((((Lea))))))))))))))))))))))))

Hugs! Congrats on being a bandito. I was banded a few weeks ago. I had gas about a week, but not nearly to the degree I had it in the hospital. As far as nausea...I still have a little BUT I also have the flu right now and last week so I think the nausea is due to the flu, not the band. Now that I'm on solid food today I ate a cheese stick and crackers for breakfast to combat the nausea.

Please let us all know how your exciting journey is progressing!