Speaking to others about my lapband surgery

Hi Guys,

I don’t post in the forum much any more but I try to visit at least once a week. It is so cool to see updates from folks who were just starting their journey while I was in the midst of getting my surgery and recovering.  This forum has meant a lot to me. I have been fortunate to make great friends from this board. I am now 16 months post-op and just kind of holding steady. Like most people, I would love to lose “just 10 more pounds".

Last month a local university contacted my surgeon looking for Lapband and RNY patients as speakers for a diet and exercise class in their Sports Wellness Education and Rehabilitation College (not sure if this is the name for sure). My surgeon’s office recommended me as a Lapband patient. The instructor wanted to hear from a person who successfully transformed their life with bariatric surgery and exercise.

I was honored and did a presentation. It was a very good experience. I was a little leery since I just don’t see myself as a stellar success. I always think I could lose more, and I could have done things better if I had another chance. When you prepare a 20 minute presentation for a group of students, you learn a lot about yourself and where you have been.

I posted it on-line for the students. I never thought of sharing it with other bariatric patients. I am not sure if it has any value for folks in this forum. If you are interested, here is the link for the PowerPoint.

http://www.tombilcze.com/tomsweightlossjourney.pdf

Keep up the good work! I promise to return her more often.

Tom

PS: I posted a photo from our wedding reception last weekend. Here's the link:
http://www.obesityhelp.com/myoh/photos/563948/Wedding/100479 9383-jpg/#photo

Wow Tom. Power point was top notch visually and so powerful in terms of the content. So many people who are curious about this benefit from the conversations we have with them that take on the real issues of our food problems. Making it clear that the band is a tool but has nothing to do with our heads is so great. Wonderful pictures of you as well. Your partner and you look so handsome in the reception pics! Thanks for sharing that with us.

Thanks Jill! I think it is also therapeutic to talk about the surgery.  When I first started, I was pretty open with my co-workers. Many had the opinion that the surgery was un-necessary and I should try "safer" routes. Post-surgery, their attitudes have changed quite a bit. I think it was the education of being with me for the past 16 months and seeing the changes. Now, one of my co-workers has recommended it to his son and daughter in law.  gook luck as you continue down the path on the loser's bench. -- Tom

 Congrats on the wedding!!!!  Adorable pic. :)  I loved my wedding too, but I wish I had some wedding pics after I lose this weight!

So happy for you both!!!

Danielle

Tom,

Thanks for sharing that. It was very informative and I enjoyed it. You look great. Keep up the good work.
Kevin