stockprincess

Since I'm guess the Hotel Dr. Ortiz uses is used to "our kind of guests", do they have clear liquid options to get at the hotel? Are there any stores w/in walking distance?

Yes to both questions. The hotel restaurant (and room service) offers chicken broth. And, MAN, did it taste good that first day. Also, there is a convenience store right across from the hotel - kind of an AM/PM, 7-11 type store. They have juices, water, things like that. I think my husband walked to that store 15 times...

i stocked up on slim fast optima because it helped my hunger pangs better than regular. also, i made homemade chicken broth because it tastes SO much better than canned and froze it in individual containers for after surgery. juices with no pulp, gatorade, popscicles (dr. miranda said WITH sugar) and CRYSTAL LIGHT!!! My husband and I went shopping while we were in TJ and bought what they call C-light - really, just Crystal Light in Mexico. It is much cheaper and they have a ton of flavors we don't have in the States. I always have some of that in my fridge - I think we spent $20 on it and it was worth it. I can't wait to go get some more when I get my fill!

Beth, I think we are thinking about doing the trolley thing...what do you think?

What makes someone not "hold" their fill?

That would be great. I'd love to chat with others in person about their experiences. Let me know and I'll try my best to be there.. I think a live support group would be a great incentive to keep on track.

I'm still looking forward to my first fill. I scheduled my appointment with Wendy Hall at the Mesa office on February 19th. I'm a little scared because she doesn't use fluro, but she seems to have a lot of knowledge with fills and since I can clearly feel my port she doesn't think I have anything to worry about. Just hoping to get some restriction so I can start dropping some more pounds.. I seem to be at a standstill right now, but trying not to get discouraged.

KELLIinAZ

Kelli - no worries about wendy. She is fabulous. She makes it so easy!

I assume the symptoms of a slipped band vary from person to person, but my experience was not being able to eat anything solid, constant heartburn and some pain in my chest and back. If you have any concern, go to the doctor right away! Don't let it get worse! Hopefully you are just tight, but I wish I had gone to the doctor sooner because now I am faced with a new surgery that I am paying for!

Junebug, what caused your slippage?

OR - we could just split the cost of the van. if there are four of us, it is only $32.50 each. what do you all think? i am up for whatever.

Hello, all! I fly in on the 19th for a fill. I get into San Diego at 10:30 and leave San Diego at 5:00 PM. I was planning on renting a car, driving it to the border and park (this is safe, I have done it many times) and then taking a cab to the clinic. On the way back, I will take a cab to the border, walk across (which is way faster than driving, by the way) picking up my car and driving back to the airport. Beth and Cyndi, I am in Mesa - Susan, this is Cara, we had surgery together. Anyway, if we want to coordinate our fill appointments (ie, me go earlier, you go later) since we can't change flights - we could really save some money on rental car and cabs. (Also, I speak fluent Spanish. This is the only reason my husband is safe with me going by myself.) Either way, let me know what you think!

Hello all! I am confident that you all can help me because I have been so impressed with this forum so far! Today is day 10 for me and I am dying. Am I to remain on Protein shakes, yogurt and smooth soups until day 21 and then, poof, wah lah, solids? or did you start increasing soft foods until day 21. if i don't chew something soon, i am going to go crazy. also, my stomach rumbles so loud!!! any advice would be great?

I also really enjoyed NutriSystem - my problem was that the portions were too small...now, with the band, that wouldn't be a problem. However, as someone said, some "meals" don't consist of everything you need (Protein, vegetables, etc.) I remember having a mini muffin or two for breakfast and that was it...anyway, just thought i'd throw in my "food tasted good" comment. Good luck!

Linda - i have a very good friend that had RLS before her bypass surgery and her weight loss and surgery didn't affect her RLS at all. I know it isn't exactly what you asked, but i hope that information helps a little.

WOW I am so glad there are ARIZONIANS here. HELP! i am so nervous. Well I have to ask.. if I do not make the 100 mark the US has in order to qualify for the surgery... will they do it in MEXICO? I need about 75 pounds. I hate to sound ignorant but is it safe in MEXICO? I mean is it clean and sanitary? PLease giv eme as much details. What was your total costs there? I live in Peoria/Glendale area. My concern is if something gies wrong.. or I need a fill I need to travel to TJ for the rest of the time? *** I was thinking of trying to get pregnant.. I hear alot.. I should wait after.. or its safe enough to do it now anyway. Sorry for the sloppy post.. I Hope I get alot of feedback and answers!!! ** THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!

Hello! I am from Mesa - I love that there is an AZ group! Anyway, I was nervous to have surgery in Mexico as well just because of old rumors, etc. However, my cousin had it done and said it was the cleanest hospital he has ever been to - that the service and knowledge there far surpasses anything he has experienced in the states. Also, my husband's grandfather had to go to a hospital while we were vacationing in Matzatlan last year and when we visited him, we had the same impression! Very thorough and knowledgeable doctors, clean facilities, etc.

My surgery is scheduled for Jan 8 - I can't wait! I have done a ton of research - talked to doctors in states, Mexico, patients from both places. I am planning on traveling to Dr. Ortiz for fills but my cousin who lives here as well has a local lady do his and he loves her. I think your first fill has to be with Dr. Ortiz. I think.

On getting pregnant - we are planning on trying soon as well. What I have found from my endless questioning of everyone is that your chances of getting pregnant increase as you get to a healthier weight. Also, I have been told you can get pregnant just as soon as your stomach heals, which doesn't take long. You would just have to adjust your fill accordingly. I hope that helps!

Hi all! I am being banded on Jan 8 and I am not sure when I will be able to go back to work! I am a massage therapist, so I have different options of work, if I want to do light, medium or deep massages - does anyone have any advice? I am so excited - I scheduled my surgery back in October, so this has been a LONG couple of months, but I am so ready!