Let's hope this happens...Cross those fingers!

Sorry I don't update that often, and I still haven't uploaded a picture. Work keeps me really busy and then my night classes keep me even busier. Did I mention my husband and toddler also keep me going? Anyways, after 7 months of doctors appointments, worry, trying to diet, etc. I am finally ready to be submitted for approval! As a reminder, I'm going the Lapband route.  Unfortunately, I've gained some weight in the last 6 months. A certain medicine of helped me in that field, and all of my joint pain and plantar fasciatis helped me NOT exercise. My BMI has increased to a 40. I have no other co-morbidities other than whats listed above. I'm nervous because I know that the Lapband is a tool...its not a miracle drug.  How did you change your ways? I know genetics has a lot to do with weight, but we didn't get obese out of nowhere. Bad habits were formed along the way. How did you break those? I carry so many struggles with overeating.  Also, any Lapbanders want to share some experiences with me?  And, does anyone have EHP? Supposedly the insurance company has 30 days to approve my claim. Can I wait that long?! Thanks for your help/advice in advance, Melissa

Hey Melissa - I'm glad to hear things are moving along.  As far as gaining the weight, while it's unfortunate, it just reemphasizes WHY we need this surgery.  But you're right, this is JUST a tool - and you've got to want to make it work. I have RNY and am almost 3 years out, but my friend, Heather Modispaw, has the band and she's done great with it.  Never mind that she's currently pregnant with her first post-op baby.  If you look at my friends, you'll see her, and I know she wouldn't mind any questions you might have for her as a bandster. I would say that, for me, working through the mental issues has been and probably always will be a challenge.  But losing weight is its own motivation, and once you start doing that, it goes a long way toward making you determined to lose more.  I say time and again that I would've paid extra had my surgeon operated on my head and not just my stomach.  A great therapist helps with these issues, too. Please feel free to come here and post when you can, we're here for you!!! Tia

Hi Melissa! I'm not a lap bander but I can tell you that changing your habits is more of a behavioral change than anything.  Luckily, I have a little bit of power over my brain and I pretty much mentally beat myself into submission and you know what, it hasn't been that bad.  Once I got through a month of liquids and started on soft foods, the food tasted sooooooo much better....even if it is just chicken salad and a couple of crackers or grapes.  This is a lifetime committment and I think that's one of the big things to get into your head.  For me, I had been so busy helping others that I really couldn't spend any time helping myself.  I would get depressed and just eat and eat.......I had to get over that and start taking care of me.  Not only do I feel better, I've even adopted my own mantra "eat to live, don't live to eat." I hope this helps! Aaron

I didn't get the lapband. But I can suggest that you start changing your eating habits now so it will be easier for to handle the change after surgery. Wishing you all the best!