Hi Angi, I am glad to respond to your post. My nickname is Angie too. Anyway, I finally have an appointment with the chief surgeon at my medical group. I am not sure what that means exactly but that's more than I have had in a year. My primary physician left the group but before she left I was waiting and waiting on a response. Anyway, the information you shared helped. I am not sure if I am approved as I have received nothing in the mail. At any rate let's keep in touch. I know $440 is nothing to sneeze at but in the big scheme of things it is a small percentage of the total cost involved. Take Care, Angie

Hey Julia, remember to start with, you can't compair you loss with anyone else since we all lose at different rates and times. Now I do have to say I have been having a really hard time this last 2-3 months myself. I have only lost 4 lbs since the beginning of January. I have decided to give up "carbs" such as rice, bread, potato's, & pasta for LENT. I may not be catholic but it is a good way to get back on track. I made it yesterday without any, and today is going to be good too, I can just tell. Get back to the basic's and you will start losing again. If you can share anything that you therapist suggests, please let me know, I would be willing to try anything. Jan P 3/24/03 -135

I had my surgery on March 21, 2003 and have currently lost 87 pounds...however I have not lost anything for about 2 months and find myself falling into my old habits. I am currently seeing a therapist to deal with the issues which lead me to eat and that is helping some. I workout at the YMCA 2-3 times a week for about an hour at a time, am good about drinking my water, try to stay s.f., but the carbs are killing me! Also I can eat anything without really having any big side effects, other than diarehha and gas. I guess I just need to hear from others what they are doing, what they eat in a day and how to get back on the wagon. Thanks everyone! Julia

Happy 11-Month Anniversary! -- Wendy

Hey Jan, Wow let me just start by saying you look about 25 years younger!!!! You look great. I also am at 11 months and I too have alot of skin hanging. I think we have been blessed with this weight loss that we forget the most important thing... our health. We all did this to get better and we have done it. I can say way to go cracking that 200 point on the scale, I have not done that yet but I am working on it very hard. I have lost 143 lbs so far and I would like to lose about 65 more lbs. Well anyway I know what will help you out, GO SHOPPING!!!!! Get a facial and a full day at the spa and spend the day taking care of yourself you have earned it!!!!!!! PS My mother had the surgery and at the age of 65 her skin is starting to come back, Give it time. Just think we did not stretch our skin out over night.... it will come back in time. God willing Cynthia Khan 03/19/03 Lap rny 378/234.5/???