6 year Bandiversary!

I can't believe it has been 6 years!  I have had ups and downs...but have been able to stay within 7lbs of my ideal weight.  The band obviously requires a great deal of extra effort...I need to run/walk 3-4 days a week and still have to be careful what I eat...BUT...it works for me!

And for me!  There are many more complications than we were told when I got my band in 2006, but for a lot of people, it still works as it is supposed to. 

Happy anniversary. 

Good for you!  Keep up the great work!  It's nice to hear a success story.

It's been 6 and a half for me and I have reached my goal too.  I am within about 10 lbs, by choice as I thought I looked too thin and old after I got all the way there.  Who knew?  The band has worked for me too. No regrets so far.

Congratulations!   I am about 4 months behind you and still grateful for my band.

I wish you continued good health!

Congrats! It has worked for me too!! I am getting close to 7 years. :)

Congratulations, I am 7 years out and still loving it!

Congratulations.  I was banded about 6 years ago as well.  I never lost a lot = which of course is my own fault.  I eventually had the doctor take out all the fill.  I still struggle eating protein like chicken and lean meats.  Breads forget about it.  I want to try again to lose the weight.  Ive been through a lot the last three years.  My husband died its been a roller coaster but I think Im ready to focus on me again.  Can you all please please help me and tell me what you eat or dont eat.  What does an actual portion size look like for a bander.  Do you eat several small meals a day?  I need encouragement.  Im now 51 and still 247lbs.  Im starting to really feel the effects of being overweight on a 5'5'' frame.  Thank you for all your information in advance! 

Hi Tammy,  PLEASE don't get discouraged...I HAVE been there and the only thing it does is cause anxiety and more failure.  I am a little confused...you had the doc take out all the fill...did you put it back in??  When was the last time you went to see your bariatric doc??  I am so sorry for you loss...I have to say..I would not 'bounce back' well after a loss like that...even a year later...God Bless You!  If you are ready...and only you will know when that time is...then your FIRST STEP is to go to your doc...start the fill process again. Last year, I got very sick...my band became swollen and my doc took out most of my fill....once I was well (and yes...I GAINED while the fill was gone) I began the 'refill' process....Once I was back to my 7cc's (in a 10cc band) AND got back out walking...the weight came off.  Now...that being said...I am most successful when I am moving.  I HATE the treadmill, but I walk 3-4 times a week outside.  I live in Maine and it is hard to get out this time of year...but I know all this snow will melt soon and I WILL get out!  I am 5'9 and am averaging 182...that is a good weight for me...I am sure I could go lower...but that is NOT the life I want to live...This is turning into a long post...if you could share some answers..please do and I will respond with what I eat when loosing weight.