HELP--Lap band lady out of control

I seriously need help--I've had lap band surgery in Oct of 04 and lost 80 lbs. within 6 months. I've had problems with choaking this past year--the band is empty. Now I've gained 25 lbs. again---I'm heading the wrong way. HELP---I'm discouraged but don't want to go back to the ol' me. AnY sugestions--PlEASE THANK YOU

Have you spoken to any Doc's about this? I never met Valin but Dr. Nadzam at Saint Raphael seemed really nice. He did tell me that he has some experience with your complaint, maybe he can help. I certainly understand your dilemma but i wouldn't wait too long to get it checked out. Maybe there is a problem in your esophagus or something. Good luck

Carolyn: Also check out the Lapband Forum. Lapband Home: http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/lapband/ For the Lapband message board: http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/lapband/a,messageboard/board_id,5359/ There are lots of helpful people there. Towanda

could you have the gastric bypass? that may be better for you. Just a suggestion.

Hi - I have a couple of thoughts..........If you're band is empty and you are having problems with choking there could be a problem with the band - or, there could be a problem with the texture of the food you're eating - or, there could be a problem with the size of your bites and the amont of chewing you're doing. The first problem absolutely needs to be fixed by the doctor - or if the other issues are the problem then it is something that you'll need to work on. In any even, a visit to your doctor wouldn't hurt you...... Do you attend support group meetings? Are you committed to working the band? What were you doing different when you lost he 80 pounds? Have you changed your life style or have you slipped back to the same ole? Time to take a look in the mirror and see exactly what you need help with - is it the band or your commitment to it? I can totally understand being discouraged - I am losing at a rate that is pathetic but I know that I only have myself to face because of it. Although I eat a tiny fraction of the amount of food that I used to, I don't always make the greatest choices and I have a very hard time getting my butt moving for a dedicated exercise program - then there's the water consumption that needs to be integrated on a regular basis. The key to losing weight remains the same regardless of the surgery we've had - we all need to eat healthy, exercise and drink water - the keys don't change - ya' know? I thought it would be so much easier with the band - I knew there would have to be work - but it is the same now as it was before as far as the commitment and work go - that just is a universal rule! You can recommit - you can do this - you went through so much to get to this point- don't let it all go to waste! You're still 55 pounds lighter as a result of your efforts - that is still an accomplishment. Hange in there. Best Regards, Tammy

Tammy, Thank you for your reply. I appreciate your response. You ask some very good questions of me--some of which I need to take some time to think about. I will admit my biggest problem is above the neck. Since I started the chocking (which I didn't do in the beginning)---I've had a "failure" attitude. I've had a negative experience with my physicians office and that hasn't helped. You may be right---my commitment has been fractured. Any advice on my "healing the fracture"? Carolyn