I lost my bandster way, but I've found the path again.

I have an Adjustable gastric band therefore it is adjustable.
It can be customized to allow flexibility during times of sickness, health, birthday, house buying, graduation, move, you name it. And thank goodness!!!
I went the the surgeon for the first time since last October. I was basically without restriction in my band since my partial unfill last June. I was not following many of my band rules and had quietly gained 12 lbs. I thought the gain was 24 lbs so I was surprised and happy to hear it was only 12 lbs. HOWEVER, the surgeon was not as happy.
 
We started to discuss why I believed I had gained the weight and loss my perspective and control. He discussed his theories and then promptly shuffled me down to have a little chat with the nutritionist.
 
I had neglected to take my thyroid medicine for about 2 months. I lost the bottle and well... Out of sight/out of mind.
I hadn't had my 64 oz of water in a day. I hadn't had 16 oz of water in a day for a few months either.
Since I had no restriction and could eat something, I would eat that item. I had nothing keeping me in check.
My sugar habits were in full force.
With winter bearing down on us in Idaho, I hadn't hiked, jogged, biked or anything in entirely too long.
 
When you add it all up, I was out of control and gaining.
But I have an adjustable band. He added only .25 cc and it has made a monstrous difference. At first I was skeptical but it really has. I'm back to eating my bandster portions rather than the entire dish. I'm satisfied for hours on end. I went shopping and stocked the house with nutritious low fat, high protein and complex carb items. And tons of bandster snack alternatives. I've restocked my sugar free flavored water collection and I'm back in business. The sun is out, the ice has melted and I started walking again too.
 
I'm very happy to report that I've lost 2.5 lbs since Thursday and I'm feeling pretty good about it.
I am proof that a lost bandster can find their way back.

 A little off-topic, but I love that photo of you as Frieda!!

thanks Bette. That was for a Mirthday party. (Mustache-Birthday)  I can rock the uni-brow!

Good for you Tiff!!

Thanks for posting.  I am in a similar situation, and have been afraid to go back to the surgeon (that and due to finances).  Your story is good news.

It's very easy to fall back into old habits, but it's never too late to pick the good ones back up again.

it is entirely too easy to fall back into old habits. WAY TOO EASY!
But we can't give up.

My fills + gas (2 hrs each way) it ends up being about $200 bucks. And that is with the 20% discount for paying cash for the fill. I understand the financial aspect all too well. But we are worth it!!!  Get your butt back in there. Just walk in with your head held high. You went in the first time looking for help and you are asking for no more than the same this time. And you must do the same next time too.  You can do this. We can do this!

It's just a waiting game for more paychecks to come in.  I also do not have health insurance atm, and when I do pick it up, it'll be individual (which means a very, very high deductable).  My fills previously would be charged around $600-700.  I just need to wait to get that much saved up, in case I need a fill.

But you're right, I need to get back in there...

i have great insurance, unfortunately they just don't cover anything to do with the band because they consider it elective.

You might want to talk to the office about a possible cash pay price discount for your fills. Tell them your situation. They'll usually work with you.

That's an excellent idea, and I never would have thought of it.  I've been so used to dealing with insurance, but I bet they might offer a discount if you pay up front.  Saves them the trouble of filing and dealing with HI companies.

Great job Tiff,
I know what you mean.  I to felt out of control and had a small fill and now can live knowing my band is in control again.  Wish you luck and Hope you had a wonderful Birthday!!!!

Wend