Hi Stephanie! 
Congratulations and welcome to banded life!  I have a support group that I lead that meets once a month near Southcenter.  It'sn not close for you but many of us come from a great distance and we selected Tukwila because its' somewhat central.  We have people that come from West Seattle, Ellensburg, Puyallup, etc. and I live in Snoqualmie!

We would love to have you join us.  We meet on the last Saturday of each month at 9 a.m. at the Starbucks in Tukwila.  Let me know if you are interested and "friend" me so I can add me on my list to send reminders, etc.

We have a very open and fun group of band patients pre and post op at all stages of the banded journey.

I hope you'll join us sometime!

Lisa O.

Good morning all,

I have almost completed the Pathway at Madigan - will have my second appointment with mental wellness next Tuesday and then will be cleared to set my appointment with the surgeon - Yippee!

I just wanted to publicly compliment everyone involved with the Pathway at Madigan. So far, I have found them all amazingly helpful, caring, and responsive.

I know people are sometimes leary of government healthcare...but if you are considering Madigan, go for it. You won't be disappointed!

Cheers,
Joan

There is a group up north that meets once a month led by Lisa O from the band forum, I'll send her over here to give you the info.

Hi Y'all just found the WA. forum.I had surgery in Edmonds Wa.on May 3rd 2010!.Dr.Billing is my surgeon. I had the RNY. I was just wondering about others experience w/ pain.I have a tremendous amount still.I have had Ct scan & blood work.They found Kidney stones & fluid under my pouch.Its just hard for me because Im a month out and Im on narcotics.They make me very grouchy & thats not me.I have 3 kids I feel like Im letting them down .Im so ready for this part to be over.
Thanks Everyone!

I wanted to add that the dietician was on her way out when she stopped to take my call.  The nurses told me I could drink anything I wanted - that soup was not considered food.  I am glad I didn't listen to them.  They also said a protein drink was not considered a meal - again, they were wrong.  I was fortunate she was able to listen and help me figure out where I should be right now - and I have some work ahead of me.  I did have broccoli and cheese soup tonight and will admit that it was simply delicious!  LOL

One other thing, I'm crying over nothing at the moment - I think they are tears of joy, relief, and not sure what else - I'll be visiting my therapist soon to discuss this.  Is this a 'normal' event?
Kathy