How has the band changed within the last 3 years?

I saw that one. I'm really sorry. You sure didn't deserve that one. You have always been so positive and encouraging to so many. You are such a sweetie and it was dis-heartening to see that nasty post. Hopefully, it wasn't being directed to you.
 
I posted  this above...it really had me thinking. I feel badly for those who lost their band and had trouble, but what is really sad is the fact that they have such resentment built up. Resentment is such an unhealthy thing to live with and I pray they find peace and can move forward. I'm sure they don't like themselves when they're lashing out and stooping to hurting some one's feelings because they're resentful and angry.

I am a praying woman too but when something almost kills you which is what has happened to many of those posters sometimes it's a DUTY to stop someone from stepping off the curb into oncoming traffic.  Lashing out isn't good but trying to grab someone's arm to pull them back IS necessary sometimes.

Ms Shell

 
You are absolutely right.  I've been sitting back waiting for that poster to clarify and they didn't.  So I just did, a few moments ago.

I know the band I had placed more than three years ago could not be (for the lack of a better word) unclipped and repositioned. Once it was opened the clasp was broken so I had to have a new one put in. That was last Wed.  Sorry that they got you good. I tend not to say much at all and be more of a lurker because some of them are just mean and vicious.

Thanks for the information. Best wishes to you!

I have no idea why some are so vile.  State your case, but don't attack.  I think it's called a pathetic life (that they lead) and they will be mean over a computer because they can.  It's as simple as that.

I'm not sure how sharing facts and personal experiences qualifies as "slamming the band"? But then again, when there is a product on the market that is dangerous maybe it should be slammed.

I personally wish every person with a band the best of luck. I hope that they don't fall into the 78% complication rate and have long, happy, healthy lives with their bands. Its the people that still have the option to make a better choice that I want my story and statistics to reach.

while I think most people have a right to their opinion - why do some people insist on posting negative things to current banders?????????????  Why do they think its okay to terrify us??

i.e.  the above comment about "78%" was kinder and gentler than how some people are...but..
....
at the same time; what the hell am I supposed to do with that kind of comment when I am already banded.  Do you feel better giving me an anxiety attack?  Do you sleep better making me feel like a ticking time bomb?

I'm truly sorry to those who have had bad experiences. But I'm asking you to THINK about what you say.  I blocked the other negative person.   I'm almost to the point where I can't visit this site anymore because these people get under my skin so badly.

It's a shame really, because its been a help in so many other ways :(

It is unfortunate that the band is not turning out to be all that it was marketed to be. You're already banded - the only thing that you can do is follow the rules, do your best and lose as much weight as possible. There is no way in advance to tell what side of the statistic you will be on. It could very well be that you have a fully functioning band and satisfactory weight loss and the band goes into the ground with you when you're old and gray.

You cant tell in advance so there is no use worrying about it now IMO. I asked my doc about late complications a couple of years ago when the studies started coming out and his comment was "we'll deal with that when and if we need to" I needed to but not every single person will. Just make sure you see your doctor at least yearly and listen to your body, if it doesn't feel right don't ignore or make excuses, see your doctor. I would also highly recommend a yearly upper GI if your doc doesn't do fills under fluoroscopy.

I wouldn't spend every day worrying that something could go wrong - work it while you've got it and worry about the ifs when they happen.

Good luck

Thanks Lynn - I truly truly appreciate the reply...it was well said and exactly what I needed.  I know I was a little nasty in my rant but it can be frustrating sometimes when I read the negative stuff because I'm a little bit of a worry wart.  (if you couldnt tell, lol) 

But coming from you, even though you've had a bad experience, that meant a lot.

Thanks again.