Re: Plan to do it - and very afraid

February 10, 2006

Phyllis,

you go girl!!! I am being banded on 2/27,,,, I got my ticket today.. I have only been overweight the past 5 yrs and let me tell you from a yo yo dieter, I never thought id have to step to such extreams. but i do not want to sit here next feb at 220lbs or proubly 260 lbs at the rate im going. By then i can be 150lbs.. my sister is not supportive at all even though she has gastric bypass over 6 yrs ago,she thinks im crazy going to mexico... well ya know what I dont give a fat rats ass what anyone thinks, the plane is booked, my rooms are booked and im gonna be a happy camper, DR. A is gonna get the skinny me out when he goes in... best of luck.. Im ready to BURN my fat clothes size 18 tight GOOD-BYE!!!!!

Plan to do it - and very afraid

Hi, All. I have been enjoying and appreciating the messages you have posted and replies you have sent to each other. There seems to be a great deal of moral/peer-group support here.I have decided this is my last hope. I have failed miserably with dieting - I used to be a great dieter but lousy at maintaining. Now I'm so huge, the thought of how long I'd have to "diet" is incredibly overwhelming, so I just don't bother. I do need the physical restriction, no doubt about it.I have what is probably an unnaturally extreme fear of undergoing surgery, having my stomach restricted, and so on. So many of you have written that only a few days after surgery you are feeling well and so few of you have written about there being any "miserable" side effects.I am almost 57; in my head I think I'm 30, and my body feels like I'm 70. I worry about sagging skin, wrinkles, etc. upon losing weight and am trying to move to a place where I am convinced it's better to have some wrinkles and even have to hide sagging skin under my clothes, than be at great risk of dying too young. I'm already restricting myself from activities with friends because I'm too large, too out of shape, too depressed, etc. to participate. I'm sorry this sounds so depressing. You all seem to be doing well and I don't mean to bring anyone down. But if anyone has just a few words to help convince me this is the right thing do, I'd really appreciate a couple of minutes of your time. Keep up the good work and congratulations to all of you are on your way to much better health and well being. Phyllis

February 10, 2006

Hi Phyllis

You have come to the right place. I am 66 and have

had many of the same feelings you do. Especially the

one about why diet when it will take forever to lose.

Since my surgery, Sept. 26, 2005, I have lost 40 lbs.

(the most I have ever lost) and I know I can lose the

rest! What a great feeling. I know I will never see

200 lbs. again. That is how neat it is to have the

band.

I will not lie to you about having the surgery. For

me the surgery was a breeze and while at the hospital

and on the way home I was not real uncomfortable. The

staff was great and catered to my needs and I was able

to get up and move around easily after a night of

sleep. But the first 2 weeks at home were tough. I

wondered whether I would feel that way forever but by

the 3rd week I was much, much better. It was not pain

or hunger for me, but learning how to eat and drink

the right way. Once I caught on and the swelling went

down inside my stomach I was fine. The best part was

that I had lost 15 lbs by the 4th week! Since then I

have had very few problems and many, many benefits!

We do have to work at this weight loss but the band is

a great tool and it will be the thing that will change

your life forever!

Best wishes to you on this journey!

Penny

Penny Manville

Walden, Colorado

DOB 9/26/05

230/192/135

1st fill 12/9/05 1cc

2nd fill 1/27/06 0.5 cc 1.5 cc total

5'4 "

__________________________________________________

February 10, 2006

Phyllis, I am so proud of you! You and I are about the same age and I am in the process of getting a home equity loan for the surgery! Age is just a number!!!! Best of luck! Love, VirginiaPhyllis Drummond <tobygirl5@...> wrote: Hi, All. I have been enjoying and appreciating the messages you have posted and replies you have sent to each other. There seems to be a great deal of moral/peer-group support here.I have decided this is my last hope. I have failed miserably with dieting - I used to be a great dieter but lousy at maintaining. Now I'm so huge, the thought of how long I'd have to "diet" is incredibly overwhelming, so I just don't bother. I do need the physical restriction, no doubt about it.I have what

is probably an unnaturally extreme fear of undergoing surgery, having my stomach restricted, and so on. So many of you have written that only a few days after surgery you are feeling well and so few of you have written about there being any "miserable" side effects.I am almost 57; in my head I think I'm 30, and my body feels like I'm 70. I worry about sagging skin, wrinkles, etc. upon losing weight and am trying to move to a place where I am convinced it's better to have some wrinkles and even have to hide sagging skin under my clothes, than be at great risk of dying too young. I'm already restricting myself from activities with friends because I'm too large, too out of shape, too depressed, etc. to

participate. I'm sorry this sounds so depressing. You all seem to be doing well and I don't mean to bring anyone down. But if anyone has just a few words to help convince me this is the right thing do, I'd really appreciate a couple of minutes of your time. Keep up the good work and congratulations to all of you are on your way to much better health and well being. Phyllis Virginia

February 10, 2006

Hey Amy,

I am getting banded on the 27th too. I cant believe how close it it

now... I am so excited. See you there.

Sonya

>

> Phyllis,

> you go girl!!! I am being banded on 2/27,,,, I got my ticket

today.. I have only been overweight the past 5 yrs and let me tell

you from a yo yo dieter, I never thought id have to step to such

extreams. but i do not want to sit here next feb at 220lbs or

proubly 260 lbs at the rate im going. By then i can be 150lbs.. my

sister is not supportive at all even though she has gastric bypass

over 6 yrs ago,she thinks im crazy going to mexico... well ya know

what I dont give a fat rats ass what anyone thinks, the plane is

booked, my rooms are booked and im gonna be a happy camper, DR. A is

gonna get the skinny me out when he goes in... best of luck.. Im

ready to BURN my fat clothes size 18 tight GOOD-BYE!!!!!

February 10, 2006

Hi Phyllis, I will be 57 in Sept and I am exactly in the same position as you. I too worry about the sagging skin but have decided to feel better would be worth whatever and maybe it won't be as bad as we think. I want to have more than 3 pairs of pants that fit, I want to be able to walk from my car into a store and not almost die, I want to hug people again especially my hubby and grandkids (oh I still hug them now but not the same). I am checking into my options, the money is a biggie but I am working on it. I wish you well. Virginia Herrell <herrell@...> wrote: Phyllis, I am so proud of you! You and I are about the same age and I am in the process of getting a home equity loan for the surgery! Age is just a number!!!! Best of luck! Love, VirginiaPhyllis Drummond <tobygirl5@...> wrote: Hi, All. I have been enjoying and appreciating the messages you have posted and replies you have sent to each other. There seems to be a great deal of moral/peer-group support here.I have decided this is my last hope. I have failed miserably with dieting - I used to be a great dieter but lousy at maintaining. Now I'm so huge, the thought of how long I'd have to "diet" is incredibly overwhelming, so I just don't bother. I do need the physical restriction, no doubt about it.I have what is probably an unnaturally extreme fear of undergoing surgery, having my stomach restricted, and so on. So many of you have written that only a few days after surgery you are feeling well and so few of you

have written about there being any "miserable" side effects.I am almost 57; in my head I think I'm 30, and my body feels like I'm 70. I worry about sagging skin, wrinkles, etc. upon losing weight and am trying to move to a place where I am convinced it's better to have some wrinkles and even have to hide sagging skin under my clothes, than be at great risk of dying too young. I'm already restricting myself from activities with friends because I'm too large, too out of shape, too depressed, etc. to participate. I'm sorry this sounds so depressing. You all seem to be doing well and I don't mean to bring anyone down. But if anyone has just a few words to

help convince me this is the right thing do, I'd really appreciate a couple of minutes of your time. Keep up the good work and congratulations to all of you are on your way to much better health and well being. Phyllis Virginia

Relax. virus scanning helps detect nasty viruses!

February 10, 2006

Well Penny..............again I agree with everything you said. I am in week 3 and finally feel really good. Until the swelling goes down, things are a bit hard to say the least but it goes by fast. I too, am in my 50's and only wish that I would have known about this "tool" 10 years ago. Phyllis, just do what the doctor tell's you and be prepared for a couple of weeks of not feeling up to par, and you will be just fine. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT to take it slow. All of the instructions they give you at the hospital have a good purpose, to make this as easy as possible. Becky Penny Manville <pmanvill@...> wrote: Hi Phyllis You have come to the right place. I am 66 and have had many of the same feelings you do. Especially the one about why diet when it will take forever to

lose. Since my surgery, Sept. 26, 2005, I have lost 40 lbs. (the most I have ever lost) and I know I can lose the rest! What a great feeling. I know I will never see 200 lbs. again. That is how neat it is to have the band. I will not lie to you about having the surgery. For me the surgery was a breeze and while at the hospital and on the way home I was not real uncomfortable. The staff was great and catered to my needs and I was able to get up and move around easily after a night of sleep. But the first 2 weeks at home were tough. I wondered whether I would feel that way forever but by the 3rd week I was much, much better. It was not pain or hunger for me, but learning how to eat and drink the right way. Once I caught on and the swelling went down inside my stomach I was fine. The best part was that I had lost 15 lbs by the 4th

week! Since then I have had very few problems and many, many benefits! We do have to work at this weight loss but the band is a great tool and it will be the thing that will change your life forever! Best wishes to you on this journey! Penny Penny Manville Walden, Colorado DOB 9/26/05 230/192/135 1st fill 12/9/05 1cc 2nd fill 1/27/06 0.5 cc 1.5 cc total 5'4" __________________________________________________

February 10, 2006

Hi Phyllis, Let me tell you, you are not the only one. I am miserable when I first get up in the morning. It takes an hour to start moving without back pain. I have 4 grandchildren that I love so much. I am only 60 and want to be able to spend fun time with them. Because of my weight and body restriction the only thing I can do with them is go out to eat...and go to the movies. Walking a theme park (I live in Florida) or taking them to the beach is never a thought.....(perhaps a dream) I will get this done....I want to be more active in their lives, I want to be more active in my own life. I have been dieting since I was 10.....you name it, I have been on it......Back in the day my Mom found a doctor that you saw every 2 weeks....you went into his office with an empty purse....and he filled it up with various packets of different colored pills. That is what you lived on. (plus diet soda, and a small portion of beef, chicken or

fish a day....This is not legal now of course.......but I was a great dieter, and have lost weight over and over again, and gained it all back plus more every time. I am self supporting, and one of my concerns is spending that much money on myself at my age....but the alternative is living the rest of my life like this....and the little ones remembering me as the "lazy" nana.....(they have never called me that....) Hee, Hee....that is what I think that they are thinking...and with good reason. Are we on the same page Phillis?????/Phyllis Drummond <tobygirl5@...> wrote: Hi, All. I have been enjoying and appreciating the messages you have posted and replies you have sent to each other. There seems to be a great deal of moral/peer-group support here.I have decided

this is my last hope. I have failed miserably with dieting - I used to be a great dieter but lousy at maintaining. Now I'm so huge, the thought of how long I'd have to "diet" is incredibly overwhelming, so I just don't bother. I do need the physical restriction, no doubt about it.I have what is probably an unnaturally extreme fear of undergoing surgery, having my stomach restricted, and so on. So many of you have written that only a few days after surgery you are feeling well and so few of you have written about there being any "miserable" side effects.I am almost 57; in my head I think I'm 30, and my body feels like I'm 70. I worry about sagging skin, wrinkles, etc. upon losing weight and am trying to move to a place where I am convinced it's better to have some wrinkles and even have to hide sagging skin under my clothes, than be at great risk of dying too young. I'm already restricting

myself from activities with friends because I'm too large, too out of shape, too depressed, etc. to participate. I'm sorry this sounds so depressing. You all seem to be doing well and I don't mean to bring anyone down. But if anyone has just a few words to help convince me this is the right thing do, I'd really appreciate a couple of minutes of your time. Keep up the good work and congratulations to all of you are on your way to much better health and well being. Phyllis

Brings words and photos together (easily) with PhotoMail - it's free and works with .

February 10, 2006

Hey Phyllis and ....

here. We should all just DO IT. I'm gonna ask my dad for a loan and I'm

aiming for

March. My quality of life has no quality! It sucks. If my puppy needs a toy

under the

couch and I have to get on the floor to get it.....well, need I say more? It's

a real struggle

to get up. How sad and pathetic is that? Everything aches. My back, my feet,

my knees. I

am getting divorced and would like to be attractive enough and confident enough

to join

eharmony or something. But right now....who would want me except for maybe a

blind

man?

So I'm gonna do it. It'll be an adventure. I've always done for my kids,

husband and

parents....this one is for me!

Lets do it together girls!

> Hi, All. I have been enjoying and appreciating the messages you have

> posted and replies you have sent to each other. There seems to be a

> great deal of moral/peer-group support here.

>

> I have decided this is my last hope. I have failed miserably with

> dieting - I used to be a great dieter but lousy at maintaining. Now

> I'm so huge, the thought of how long I'd have to " diet " is incredibly

> overwhelming, so I just don't bother. I do need the physical

> restriction, no doubt about it.

>

> I have what is probably an unnaturally extreme fear of undergoing

> surgery, having my stomach restricted, and so on. So many of you have

> written that only a few days after surgery you are feeling well and so

> few of you have written about there being any " miserable " side effects.

>

> I am almost 57; in my head I think I'm 30, and my body feels like I'm

> 70. I worry about sagging skin, wrinkles, etc. upon losing weight and

> am trying to move to a place where I am convinced it's better to have

> some wrinkles and even have to hide sagging skin under my clothes,

> than be at great risk of dying too young. I'm already restricting

> myself from activities with friends because I'm too large, too out of

> shape, too depressed, etc. to

> participate.

>

> I'm sorry this sounds so depressing. You all seem to be doing well

> and I don't mean to bring anyone down. But if anyone has just a few

> words to help convince me this is the right thing do, I'd really

> appreciate a couple of minutes of your time. Keep up the good work

> and congratulations to all of you are on your way to much better

> health and well being. Phyllis

>

February 11, 2006

sonya,

when are you arriving.. my friend jessie and i are leaving 2/21 for 3 nights in san diego, then 2 nights in a hotel in mexicali.. were gonna live it up.. were party animals so the non drinking part after wards will be rough.. We just love to flirt with the men since were both single... cant wait to see the guys in 6 months when were 60lbs lighter...lol see ya there......................amy

Re: Plan to do it - and very afraid

Hey Amy,I am getting banded on the 27th too. I cant believe how close it it now... I am so excited. See you there.Sonya>> Phyllis,> you go girl!!! I am being banded on 2/27,,,, I got my ticket today.. I have only been overweight the past 5 yrs and let me tell you from a yo yo dieter, I never thought id have to step to such extreams. but i do not want to sit here next feb at 220lbs or proubly 260 lbs at the rate im going. By then i can be 150lbs.. my sister is not supportive at all even though she has gastric bypass over 6 yrs ago,she thinks im crazy going to mexico... well ya know what I dont give a fat rats ass what anyone thinks, the plane is booked, my rooms are booked and im gonna be a happy camper, DR. A is gonna get the skinny me out when he goes in... best of luck.. Im ready to BURN my fat clothes size 18 tight GOOD-BYE!!!!!

February 11, 2006

ok I am ready , my date is set for March 5th

hope to see you there or find out you have been around

soon. Good luck.

--- <susanbattelle@...> wrote:

> Hey Phyllis and ....

>

> here. We should all just DO IT. I'm gonna

> ask my dad for a loan and I'm aiming for

> March. My quality of life has no quality! It

> sucks. If my puppy needs a toy under the

> couch and I have to get on the floor to get

> it.....well, need I say more? It's a real struggle

> to get up. How sad and pathetic is that?

> Everything aches. My back, my feet, my knees. I

> am getting divorced and would like to be attractive

> enough and confident enough to join

> eharmony or something. But right now....who would

> want me except for maybe a blind

> man?

>

> So I'm gonna do it. It'll be an adventure. I've

> always done for my kids, husband and

> parents....this one is for me!

>

> Lets do it together girls!

>

> > Hi, All. I have been enjoying and appreciating

> the messages you have

> > posted and replies you have sent to each other.

> There seems to be a

> > great deal of moral/peer-group support here.

> >

> > I have decided this is my last hope. I have failed

> miserably with

> > dieting - I used to be a great dieter but lousy at

> maintaining. Now

> > I'm so huge, the thought of how long I'd have to

> " diet " is incredibly

> > overwhelming, so I just don't bother. I do need

> the physical

> > restriction, no doubt about it.

> >

> > I have what is probably an unnaturally extreme

> fear of undergoing

> > surgery, having my stomach restricted, and so on.

> So many of you have

> > written that only a few days after surgery you are

> feeling well and so

> > few of you have written about there being any

> " miserable " side effects.

> >

> > I am almost 57; in my head I think I'm 30, and my

> body feels like I'm

> > 70. I worry about sagging skin, wrinkles, etc.

> upon losing weight and

> > am trying to move to a place where I am convinced

> it's better to have

> > some wrinkles and even have to hide sagging skin

> under my clothes,

> > than be at great risk of dying too young. I'm

> already restricting

> > myself from activities with friends because I'm

> too large, too out of

> > shape, too depressed, etc. to

> > participate.

>

> >

> > I'm sorry this sounds so depressing. You all seem

> to be doing well

> > and I don't mean to bring anyone down. But if

> anyone has just a few

> > words to help convince me this is the right thing

> do, I'd really

> > appreciate a couple of minutes of your time. Keep

> up the good work

> > and congratulations to all of you are on your way

> to much better

> > health and well being. Phyllis

> >

February 11, 2006

well, how bad do you want to be thin? cuz you can't have the surgery unless you

quit for

healing reasons, at least that's what I have heard.

I used to be a 3 pack a day smoker. I tried and failed at quitting smoking

probably 6

times. The last time stuck. My dr told me that if I didn't care about myself,

to stop being

selfish and think about my children. I think you said you had grandkids.....do

it for them.

No one likes a stinky Nana, ha ha! I sure was stinky from cigarettes. I had a

cig before I

even brushed my teeth in the morning and right before I went to sleep. It was

horrible.

I bought some mint toothpicks and sugar free suckers, hard candy etc to deal

with the

" oral fixation " problem I had. It worked wonders for me. I pretended that

toothpick was

my menthol cigarette, I had to trick my mind somehow. I've never had a

cigarette since!

Good luck!

> > Hi, All. I have been enjoying and appreciating the messages you have

> > posted and replies you have sent to each other. There seems to be a

> > great deal of moral/peer-group support here.

> >

> > I have decided this is my last hope. I have failed miserably with

> > dieting - I used to be a great dieter but lousy at maintaining. Now

> > I'm so huge, the thought of how long I'd have to " diet " is incredibly

> > overwhelming, so I just don't bother. I do need the physical

> > restriction, no doubt about it.

> >

> > I have what is probably an unnaturally extreme fear of undergoing

> > surgery, having my stomach restricted, and so on. So many of you have

> > written that only a few days after surgery you are feeling well and so

> > few of you have written about there being any " miserable " side effects.

> >

> > I am almost 57; in my head I think I'm 30, and my body feels like I'm

> > 70. I worry about sagging skin, wrinkles, etc. upon losing weight and

> > am trying to move to a place where I am convinced it's better to have

> > some wrinkles and even have to hide sagging skin under my clothes,

> > than be at great risk of dying too young. I'm already restricting

> > myself from activities with friends because I'm too large, too out of

> > shape, too depressed, etc. to

> > participate.

> >

> > I'm sorry this sounds so depressing. You all seem to be doing well

> > and I don't mean to bring anyone down. But if anyone has just a few

> > words to help convince me this is the right thing do, I'd really

> > appreciate a couple of minutes of your time. Keep up the good work

> > and congratulations to all of you are on your way to much better

> > health and well being. Phyllis

> >

February 11, 2006

I hear your depression. Do you remember feeling self-confident when

you were thinnner? I'll bet you do remember... and you can be there

again. I will confess that I too was denying myself some social

opportunities because of my weight and it became a vicious

self-defeating cycle until I decided to do something about it by

getting a lap band. It took me over a year to make a final decision

but I have not regretted it for an instant. Fear of surgery is NOT

unnatural or silly--surgery and anesthesia are serious business but so

are the risks of remaining obese. Dr. A and his team are very skilled

at what the surgery and anesthesia and equally important they are

skilled at helping you feel relaxed and cared for. You will

definitely NOT feel like a " another fat person entering the skinny

factory " --they are extremely compassionate and caring and will answer

all your questions without making you feel the least bit

self-conscious. You will not be alone even if you travel alone as I

did. I am a relatively suspicious person and make careful decisions

before deciding whom I trust. Read the posts, there are plenty of us

out here who care about your success and in the group you can be sure

someone has experienced everything and every feeling YOU feel. Keep

expressing, keep reading, keep posting and GO FOR IT, GIRL. I am a

relative " beginner " --now scheduled for my first fill in Little Rock,

AR on 2/28/06. I made the right decison for me and I wish you well

as you decide what is right for you.

Gloria

12/21/05

221/195/140

February 11, 2006

,

A patients have been very successful quiting with the patches, so

did my mom, maybe this helps too.

Nina

> > > Hi, All. I have been enjoying and appreciating the messages

you have

> > > posted and replies you have sent to each other. There seems

to be a

> > > great deal of moral/peer-group support here.

> > >

> > > I have decided this is my last hope. I have failed miserably

with

> > > dieting - I used to be a great dieter but lousy at

maintaining. Now

> > > I'm so huge, the thought of how long I'd have to " diet " is

incredibly

> > > overwhelming, so I just don't bother. I do need the physical

> > > restriction, no doubt about it.

> > >

> > > I have what is probably an unnaturally extreme fear of

undergoing

> > > surgery, having my stomach restricted, and so on. So many of

you have

> > > written that only a few days after surgery you are feeling

well and so

> > > few of you have written about there being any " miserable " side

effects.

> > >

> > > I am almost 57; in my head I think I'm 30, and my body feels

like I'm

> > > 70. I worry about sagging skin, wrinkles, etc. upon losing

weight and

> > > am trying to move to a place where I am convinced it's better

to have

> > > some wrinkles and even have to hide sagging skin under my

clothes,

> > > than be at great risk of dying too young. I'm already

restricting

> > > myself from activities with friends because I'm too large, too

out of

> > > shape, too depressed, etc. to

> > > participate.

> > >

> > > I'm sorry this sounds so depressing. You all seem to be doing

well

> > > and I don't mean to bring anyone down. But if anyone has just

a few

> > > words to help convince me this is the right thing do, I'd

really

> > > appreciate a couple of minutes of your time. Keep up the good

work

> > > and congratulations to all of you are on your way to much

better

> > > health and well being. Phyllis

> > >

February 11, 2006

Hi Phyllis,

I had my surgery on 8/11/05, just after my 50th birthday. My Husband

was more worried about me " going under " for the surgery than I was . I

was just anxious about the shoulder pain from the air/gas pumped into

your abdominal cavity - but I think all the standing and walking I did

within hours of my surgery took care of it cause I never experienced any

pain at all. Just a bit of soreness at the main incison.

I'm losing a bit slower than some of my " bandette " sisters but I'm older

than most I'd venture to guess. I wish I'd been smart enough in my 40's

to do this... My main reasons for having the surgery were purely to

feel and look better. My goal is to keep up with my almost 7 year old

son and my hubby (who's 5 years younger than me too!) They are both

extremely active and I used to be too but the weight started creeping up

about 20 years ago and just never stopped.

I started at a tight size 24 and now wear a loose size 18. At one point

several years ago I was wearing a very tight size 26 and I'm only 5'3 " !

I currently weigh 228 lbs, down from my all time hight of 284! I know I

still have a way to go - but I have time and I feel so good about myself

right now that I no longer care how long it takes. I'd like to be a

size 14 by the time we go camping in Yellowstone in late July - God

willing and I work at it, I'll make it. I had 1 fill on 11/25/05 and I

still have some problems eating solids but I keep up with my protein and

take my vitamins and calcium every day. I feel great and if I do say so

myself - I look great! It's the best birthday gift I've ever gave

myself.

Health and happiness to you,

Liz

>

> Hi, All. I have been enjoying and appreciating the messages you have

> posted and replies you have sent to each other. There seems to be a

> great deal of moral/peer-group support here.

>

> I have decided this is my last hope. I have failed miserably with

> dieting - I used to be a great dieter but lousy at maintaining. Now

> I'm so huge, the thought of how long I'd have to " diet " is incredibly

> overwhelming, so I just don't bother. I do need the physical

> restriction, no doubt about it.

>

> I have what is probably an unnaturally extreme fear of undergoing

> surgery, having my stomach restricted, and so on. So many of you have

> written that only a few days after surgery you are feeling well and so

> few of you have written about there being any " miserable " side

effects.

>

> I am almost 57; in my head I think I'm 30, and my body feels like I'm

> 70. I worry about sagging skin, wrinkles, etc. upon losing weight and

> am trying to move to a place where I am convinced it's better to have

> some wrinkles and even have to hide sagging skin under my clothes,

> than be at great risk of dying too young. I'm already restricting

> myself from activities with friends because I'm too large, too out of

> shape, too depressed, etc. to

> participate.

>

> I'm sorry this sounds so depressing. You all seem to be doing well

> and I don't mean to bring anyone down. But if anyone has just a few

> words to help convince me this is the right thing do, I'd really

> appreciate a couple of minutes of your time. Keep up the good work

> and congratulations to all of you are on your way to much better

> health and well being. Phyllis

>

February 11, 2006

messages you have > over > > again, and gained it all back plus more every time. > > > I am self supporting, and one of my concerns is spending that much money on > myself > > at my age....but the alternative is living the rest of my life like this....and the little ones > > remembering me as the "lazy" nana.....(they have never called me that....) Hee, > Hee....that Dear Phyllis,

I too am in my 50's (I will be 54 in June) I am not easily lead

into diet pills or the latest fads on losing weight and I have

struggled my whole life with weight issues. I am the only non drinker

(out of 11 kids) and the only one overweight. I have extensive medical knowledge and do tons of research on anything I consider that affects

my health. I am a lifelong non-smoker, eat healthy organic foods,

avoid sod, chips, and all the other bad foods. I ate normally 10 fat

grams per day and spent 45 minutes on the fitness flyer, walked 3-5

miles per day, swam, and took the stairs. I was still overwieght and

could NEVER lose weight. One of the girls at work had surgery to lose

weight 3 years ago and she is beautiful(maybe actually too thin now)

so I kicked around the idea of doing this and went to a local seminar

here in Las Vegas. I was VERY impressed but knew I would not want the

drastic RNY surgery as I don't want all those issues with malabsorbtion

and cutting up all my inners! I went online and researched all the

doctors, compared costs, benefits, reputations, credentials, and spoke

to lots of people and lurked on lots of support groups. When I decided

I was going to do this I KNEW Dr Aceves was the best and most qualify

to do the surgery but also had the bedside manner, care and concern so

may US doctors can't seem to get! I had surgery Oct 12 and have lost

an average of 2-3 lbs per week. I like that it is slow as the body has

a chance to adjust to the loss and prevent the saggy skin. I don't mind

that I plateau every couple weeks for a week and then start losing

again(I might stay the same weight for a week or 10 days and then start

losing again). I am SO grateful I can lose and am down from 244 to 211

as of today. I had no pain meds at all after surgery(not even Tylenol)

had surgery late Tuesday afternoon and was back at work on Friday 8am.

I feel SUPER. I can walk without panting and struggling for air, I can

get up off the floor when I get down on the floor(hubby always had to

help me or I had to use furniture to pull myself up!). I can now take

a bath without assistance to get out of the tub. I feel great! I get compliments on how I look now. Even my sons' friends (since he was small)

mention how good I look. My clothes I haven't wore in forever fit now.

Gone is the baggy, hide the figure (fat)shirts. I feel beautiful again.

I am very long winded but I want you to know you will never be

disappointed with the care you will receive from Dr Aceves and his

wonderful staff. Everyone, momma Yolanda, , Nina, nurses and cleaning crew are very attentive, caring, warm, helpful

and just like having your mom take care of you. The hospital is small

but very clean and you never wait (like you do in the US) for someone

to answer your call button. You get to sleep without interruptions (no

one wakes you to offer you a sleeping pill after having disturbed you

fifty times a night for blood pressure, blood draws, etc) they let you

sleep. It was the best thing I ever did for ME! And yes there are

also drawbacks. If you eat too fast or too much you will barf! But if

you truly want something badly you will always make some kind of

sacrifice to achieve that goal. Be kind to you and jump into this

pool. We will all be here to support you and help you if you need

us. Have I mentioned how I love this band? I do! And I would do it

again. And I have had some minor problems (too much restriction at

times and tenderness near my port site but still would do it again!

Hope this helps you with your decision. Sorry for the lengthy

message!

Cher

In Las Vegas

DOB 10/12/05

244/211/170(maybe 150)

> > > > > > Phyllis Drummond <tobygirl5@> wrote:> > > Hi, All. I have been enjoying and appreciating the > > > posted and replies you have sent to each other. There seems to be a > > > great deal of moral/peer-group support here.> > > > > > I have decided this is my last hope. I have failed miserably with > > > dieting - I used to be a great dieter but lousy at maintaining. Now > > > I'm so huge, the thought of how long I'd have to "diet" is incredibly > > > overwhelming, so I just don't bother. I do need the physical > > > restriction, no doubt about it.> > > > > > I have what is probably an unnaturally extreme fear of undergoing > > > surgery, having my stomach restricted, and so on. So many of you have > > > written that only a few days after surgery you are feeling well and so > > > few of you have written about there being any "miserable" side effects.> > > > > > I am almost 57; in my head I think I'm 30, and my body feels like I'm > > > 70. I worry about sagging skin, wrinkles, etc. upon losing weight and > > > am trying to move to a place where I am convinced it's better to have > > > some wrinkles and even have to hide sagging skin under my clothes, > > > than be at great risk of dying too young. I'm already restricting > > > myself from activities with friends because I'm too large, too out of > > > shape, too depressed, etc. to > > > participate. > > > > > > I'm sorry this sounds so depressing. You all seem to be doing well > > > and I don't mean to bring anyone down. But if anyone has just a few > > > words to help convince me this is the right thing do, I'd really > > > appreciate a couple of minutes of your time. Keep up the good work > > > and congratulations to all of you are on your way to much better > > > health and well being. Phyllis> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

February 11, 2006

Thank you, any and all suggestions are appreciated. This will be a huge hurdle for me. Nina <nina_eguia@...> wrote: , A patients have been very successful quiting with the patches, so did my mom, maybe this helps too.Nina> > > Hi, All. I have been enjoying and appreciating the messages you have > > > posted and replies you have sent to each other. There seems to be a > > > great deal of moral/peer-group support here.> > > > > > I have decided this is my last hope. I have

failed miserably with > > > dieting - I used to be a great dieter but lousy at maintaining. Now > > > I'm so huge, the thought of how long I'd have to "diet" is incredibly > > > overwhelming, so I just don't bother. I do need the physical > > > restriction, no doubt about it.> > > > > > I have what is probably an unnaturally extreme fear of undergoing > > > surgery, having my stomach restricted, and so on. So many of you have > > > written that only a few days after surgery you are feeling well and so > > > few of you have written about there being any "miserable" side effects.> > > > > > I am almost 57; in my head I think I'm 30, and my body feels like I'm > > > 70. I worry about sagging skin, wrinkles, etc. upon losing weight and > > > am trying to move to

a place where I am convinced it's better to have > > > some wrinkles and even have to hide sagging skin under my clothes, > > > than be at great risk of dying too young. I'm already restricting > > > myself from activities with friends because I'm too large, too out of > > > shape, too depressed, etc. to > > > participate. > > > > > > I'm sorry this sounds so depressing. You all seem to be doing well > > > and I don't mean to bring anyone down. But if anyone has just a few > > > words to help convince me this is the right thing do, I'd really > > >

appreciate a couple of minutes of your time. Keep up the good work > > > and congratulations to all of you are on your way to much better > > > health and well being. Phyllis> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

February 12, 2006

Amy, how I wish I could go with you on the 27th. I'll be at my annual professional conference from 28th through March 4th. I am really hoping I can go very soon after the conference.

Sorry about the lack of support from your sister. I'm getting some push-back from friends. My mother is all for me doing the surgery, but she doesn't know I'm planning on going to Mexico. She'll probably get over it because she's more worried I'm going to stroke out or something. I keep telling her, if I kick off, she and Dad will be rich, that I'm worth more dead than alive. She doesn't think that's very funny....hmmm.

I will be thinking very good thoughts for you from the 27th on. Please let me hear from you when you get home. I'm anxious to know what you think and how you feel. Take care. Phyllis

Plan to do it - and very afraid

Hi, All. I have been enjoying and appreciating the messages you have posted and replies you have sent to each other. There seems to be a great deal of moral/peer-group support here.I have decided this is my last hope. I have failed miserably with dieting - I used to be a great dieter but lousy at maintaining. Now I'm so huge, the thought of how long I'd have to "diet" is incredibly overwhelming, so I just don't bother. I do need the physical restriction, no doubt about it.I have what is probably an unnaturally extreme fear of undergoing surgery, having my stomach restricted, and so on. So many of you have written that only a few days after surgery you are feeling well and so few of you have written about there being any "miserable" side effects.I am almost 57; in my head I think I'm 30, and my body feels like I'm 70. I worry about sagging skin, wrinkles, etc. upon losing weight and am trying to move to a place where I am convinced it's better to have some wrinkles and even have to hide sagging skin under my clothes, than be at great risk of dying too young. I'm already restricting myself from activities with friends because I'm too large, too out of shape, too depressed, etc. to participate. I'm sorry this sounds so depressing. You all seem to be doing well and I don't mean to bring anyone down. But if anyone has just a few words to help convince me this is the right thing do, I'd really appreciate a couple of minutes of your time. Keep up the good work and congratulations to all of you are on your way to much better health and well being. Phyllis

February 12, 2006

Thanks so much for the encouraging words, Cher. Tomorrow I will be calling human resources to find out if insurance covers the procedure (or partially covers). If so, will probably go with the hospital in San Francisco that does the procedure. Part of me almost hopes insurance doesn't cover so I will "need" to go to Dr. Aceves to save money! You all make him and his staff and their hospital/clinic sound so wonderful. I am a nurse/risk manager in a hospital and am starting to think I'll feel safer with all of them than in one of our US hospitals! One of you mentioned getting your call light answered and consideration for the need for sleep. Gee, what novel concepts!! LOL

Anyway, after the call to HR, I'm going to get an appt with my primary care doc and tell her what I'm planning, get a couple of tests done she's been after me to do and if all is OK, I'm ready to make contact with Dr. Aceves' program!

Congratulations to all of you who have been so successful and all of you scheduled and ready to go!! I hope to be among you soon. Phyllis

Re: Re: Plan to do it - and very afraid