17 months out - LOVE my band!

It's been an amazing journey so far! I am a few ounces from losing 110lbs and I feel fantastic! I truly started this journey thinking I wouldn't succeed. I was 305lbs, have PCOS and my back and joints hurt horribly. I relied on my best friend to tie my shoes for me because reaching down would cut off my breathing. I was miserable and after many tries on different programs realized that something has to happen or soon I'd see 400 then 500lbs.

The band was first a suggestion, then a consideration and finally a reality. I truly did not have faith in myself.... but I hoped that the band would wake up that part of me that wanted my life back so badly. Through strong support systems, surgery education and persistence... I feel like a big success. I have come a LONG way physically AND emotionally. I know my worth and know what I deserve... mind, body and soul. I'm not perfect, but a true transformation has happened thanks to my band.

My biggest tip? Never shy away from support. Support groups, web sites... anything you can get your hands on. I couldn't have done this on my own. Without all of the people in my life, I would not be where I am today. I credit my support, but I also credit myself. No matter what surgery, we all have to be tough as nails to claim what we want and keep it.

I have 15lbs to goal (180lbs) and I know I will get there. I am up from zero to two hours of working out daily and I am at my sweet spot. I'm in onederland and the view is breathtaking.














 
 

OMG Elena you have done a great job and you look fantastic!!!!  

I told my husband last night that I was going to reach out to you for him.   I had RNY and he just had the band back in July.   Here's his issue.    He has felt great never had an issue what so ever.   He's lost 40lbs which is great.    His question is....when he goes in for a fill....the last 2 times he feels the restriction for a couple of days and then it's back to feeling like it's not even there.   Is that normal or do you think maybe there's an issue there?   He's worried that it's leaking or something.   He does have an appt tomorrow for a fill so he'll ask then as well. 

Again you are amazing!   Keep up the great work!

That is VERY normal! There is restriction for a bit while the tummy gets used to the new tighteness of  the band and swells a bit. I only got good restriction about 10 fills in. Some people are luckier and it come faster. I did get too tight once but that was a good lesson for me because it helped me understand what TOO tight was so that i could figure out where my sweet spot is. Tell him to not be afraid of getting fills... if it gets too tight, he'll know pretty much right away. Good luck!

Thanks so much Elena!   He's not afraid of the fills at all...actually I think he looks forward to it each time.   He went in today and got another one and the Dr pretty much told him what you said. 

Elena,

You have done one heck of a WONDERFUL job.  Hats off to you my friend.  I love the new hair color, and cut....... You are one HOT LADY!!!!!!!!!!!!

Keep up the great work!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Elena,

You have rocked your band......You look fantastic......WTG....

Kelly

Elena,

You are such an inspiration!! and I love your fire!! Keeps me motivated. Congrats and I know you'll hit your goal!! and I just absolutely love the new color/style!!

Elena:

Congratulations on a job well and beautifully done.  Also, thank you for that you give to people here on OH and support group meetings.

RP

Elena you look fantastic!!  Your posts are so encouraging to us that haven't gotten that far yet.  Keep up the good work!!
Donna