Hi I'm a newbie

Hello everyone My name is Helen. I'm from Smithfield. I'm waiting insurance approval for lap band surgery with Dr. Enochs in Cary. I'm really nervous about surgery because I'm not sure my head is in the right place yet. Any words of advice would be appreciated. Helen

Helen, Rest assure you are in wonderful hands.  I just had Dr.Enochs do my surgery and he was incredable!  You wont find a more caring doctor anywhere!  The day of surgery I thought I would be so nervous but his surgery team put me at such ease.  I had gastric bypas and have yet to have any pain.  Its been tough mentally being around the family when they are eating, but I know soon I'll be able to be with them and the dinner table.  Have  you seen Dr. Moore?  She was very helpful in getting my head in the right place.  I'm going to the support group on Thursday night, you should come.  I think it helps to surround yourself with people *****ally understand you and what you are going thru.  Best Wishes! Hugs, Amy

Thanks for the reply Amy :@) I feel much better actually talking to someone who has experience with Dr. Enochs.I see Dr. Moore Feb.8. Could you give me more information about the support group? Thanks bunches, Helen

Helen: I am a bandster. Been one for almost 4 years. I am no expert or psychologist but let me give you a few ideas to begin this transition. 1) Begin now cutting your meat and veggies into pieces no bigger than a green pea. This will be the size of each bite you will have to get used to eating. The strange thing psychologically to me was that by the time I got a chicken breast cut up so that I could eat it, I was worn out and didn't eat as much. 2) Begin chewing your food 20-30 times before swallowing it, especially meat. Meat will be the most painful thing if you don't pulverize it before swallowing because it does not "dissolve" in the digestive tract. 3) Practice NOT drinking a beverage with your meal. A cardinal bandster rule is no liquid less than 30 minutes before a meal or an hour afterwards. This is so the food will stay in the pouch longer, giving you a full feeling longer, before being washed out with the fluid. And 4) A  happy thought is to think about how much money you will save when you eat out (and yes, of course, you will be able to eat out) because you will be able to share a meal with your dinner partner or you will be able to take home at least half of your meal for lunch the next day. I don't know if Dr. Enoch's does this, but my surgeon gave us a card that we could show the restaurant and hopefully (some will honor it and some will not) let you order a child's portion or a senior's portion which is usually a little cheaper too.  I know that you are anxious - we always are when a major life decision is made - but choosing to get banded was without a doubt the best health AND lifestyle decision I have ever made for myself. As you go through the process, if you have any questions, please feel free to ask. And by the way, I am in Wendell so I'm not that far away. starfish

Thanks for the reply Starfish. I'm saving your reply to refer to on my journey. Helen

Welcome to the NC board

Darcie

Welcome, Helen!!

Hi Helen -

I want to welcome you to the NC board. I think that you will find this to be a warm, supportive place to be. I would give you advise, but honestly, Starfish already did such a great job, I don't think I could possibly add anything.

I look forward to getting to know you through your experiences, questions and responses.

Wishing you all the best in your journey to a healthier you,

Barb

You are in good hands with Dr. Enochs. I had my surgery in Nov., and both he and his staff have been awesome!!  Good Luck, you won't regret it!

Hey Helen! Welcome to our NC corner of OH.  I look forward to supporting you on your journey... and do hop over to our birthday calendar and add yourself!