Merideth

Hi Cindy!! I emailed you back, not sure if you got it (the nite we were on line the same time), anywho, GOOD LUCK with your new fill. Let me know how it is. Were behind you in another 2 weeks. (Dec 16) then one week later flying to MI for the Holidays for a couple of weeks. When things slow down a bit, we need to hook up. Hi to Daren. Teri

Teri,

Where in Michigan are you going? I am in Traverse City.

Merideth

Hi Tamy, Hi Susan,

Im glad to know you are both doing well, I am too. I have lost about 16 lbs so far, I havent been hungry really but miss the taste and act itself of eating ALOT!

What have you guys been having to drink ie eat? Any new ideas to break the monotony?

Ive been draining the broth out of soups to get different tastes, smoothies made with lactaid, fruit, and protein powder. Frozen fruit juice bars.

Keep in touch!

Mark

Mark,

My father and I are both going through the pre-surgery appointments, have been to two support groups and another next week. The longer it takes the more my father questions if he should do it or not. I told him I am going through with it, at 37 I have a lot of years left (hopefully) and I can't think of anything I could do that would make me happier than being more active and healthy! He on the other hand had a severe heart attack when he was 51 and has 1/3 that remains undamaged, the rest is scar tissue. He wonders if he should procede because he really enjoys eating, almost up to 300 lb's now. He needs to hear some positive feedback from someone. Sounds like you miss the "act" of eating and the taste of your favorite foods that are now behind you. He has exceded his life expectancy by about 8 years so the doctors said. He has proven them wrong so far, I feel like it could only add on additional years for him but I don't want to tell him to go for it and then have him be misserable because of it.

Would you advise him to go for it as a personal opinion? Is it really that bad of a sacrifice or a lifestyle change? I would think the rewards are worth it? Let me know what you think.

Merideth

Its not uncommon to have more restriction in the morning. Not sure why, but it happens. Some bandsters find drinking a warm liquid prior to trying to eat helps. I'm so busy in the morning and I do have more restriction in the morning that I find I do better with a protein shake. I don't have time to sit and eat slowly (3 kids... different schools!) so I take a protein shake with me when I'm dropping them off. On the weekends, when I have more time (ok... really just on Saturday morning) I have real food. Just know - PBing and throwing up don't HAVE to be part of your band life, its not uncommon, but it can be avoided by eating slowly, chewing well and taking only small bites. Almost 6 months banded here and no PBing... yet LOL

What does PBing stand for? Going through steps, seing psychologist Monday and Physician Thursday, hopefully to get a date! Still checking into all the in's and out's so you assistance is appreciated.

Merideth