Mindy

[Guest guest]

Mindy, this to be first I to see you post on list and was to be to notice

you to be school psychologist. Do you to be a consultant on autism in you

areas. Do you to be a mom too? I to think it to be much good you to be to

understand autism in you position as often it is rare to have school

psychologist to understand autism at any level ( at least from our area) I

to be with autism and to have had some professionals in schools try to act

like they to be teaching me of autism . I to be silent and let them LOL this

way I to know what they really to know and do not know. After they to be

done i to thank them and then share from my own versions of living with

autism . But in rare times I do be to find some really good professionals

who truly get autism as a whole and to be happy you to be one who is

professional and in the knowing. I to be to introduce self I to be Sondra

and adult with HFA and to be married for 16 years, we to be to have 4

children with AS. I to be to love to be to write and to be to create poetry.

I to be to do work with children's of autism in school settings and to be to

do some consulting work. I to be to speak to groups on autism and to love my

work. Yet can never to be to work a real job and full time employ. My

husband to be to be corrections officer in a local prison. Anyway I to be to

wanted to introduce self and to say happy to see professionals here too.

Sondra

[Guest guest]

Mindy,

I believe that this is also true for my daughter, she also seems to have

seizures only at night while she's sleeping. SCD is that special carb diet?

We will be seeing a nutritionist in February and I will ask her to put my

daughter on a hypoglycemic diet which hopefully will help keep her blood sugar

normal.

Please send me any information you feel may be of interest to me such as this

post. Thanks!

Grace

littlroses <littlroses@...> wrote:

I have read a lot on internet info from Pfeiffer. Pretty good

reading and they seem reputable. Wish I could take her. I don't

really have the finances for the out of pocket stuff though. Trying

to do the " alternative " stuff on my own the best I can.

The reason why I wondered about the loss of B vitamins is because I

have read in several places that how the meds work are not precisely

known, though I think there are ways that they do know it works.

I'm not arguing for, but just repeating what I read. Seeing as I do

this on my own, I don't want to ignore this idea and just start my

daughter on supps at will.

Also, what I know about B6 is that it has some function in regard to

insulin. Can't recall exactly how at the moment. Anyway, I think

in MY childrens health, insulin and glucose are some significant

issues causing many (but not all) of their symptoms.

I have cut and pasted a post I wrote to another list that kind of

explains my thinking and my children's history:

****************

Thanks for the interesting post. You are way over my head with the

info and I admit I'm struggling to comprehend it! My daughter is on

depakene. One of the ways it works is by blocking glutamines. I

have to put this in simpler language for my own benefit. LOL But,

from what I understand, the seizures are not a disorder, but a

symptom. When there is a build up of glutamates in the brain, the

neurons become so excited that there is a choice of massive neuronal

death and a seizure is a dramatic way to quickly shed this

excitatory buildup. So, a seizure is actually the body's protective

response, much like a fever is protective. We treat fevers even if

they are not the disease.

Anyway, from what I understand, glutamines (being the fuel, right?)

are suppressed by the depakene (valproic acid) in order to protect

it from glutamate toxicity. I think that is what I understand.

Now from reading your post...I have to struggle with this idea and

other things I know. I didn't know that glutamine was very similiar

to glucose so now I'm trying to tie in what this all means for my

girls.

My oldest daughter was diagnosed severe ADHD. My youngest is ASD

w/epilepsy. What I learned is that when the body/brain doesn't have

enough glucose it produces norepinephrine and is forced to run on

adrenaline. When I altered my family's diet to SCD, we saw great

improvement. I believe this largely has to do with the fact that

the foods we eat (and frequent meals as well) keeps the blood sugar

even. The diet we had before (standard american diet) made the blood

sugar spike and bottom out. This might explain a lot of behaviors

that I didn't understand when they were toddlers. About an hour or

two after my oldest daughter went to bed, she would have night

terrors. My youngest would have seizures about an hour or

two after bed. Though she did have seizures at other times. This

would coincide with eating food that would

cause the blood sugar to spike and then bottom out(forcing the brain

to look for a different source of energy). However, the

two girls responded in very different ways, it may have still been

essentially the same issue.

My oldest (ADHD) daughter no longer needs ADHD meds now that we have

this diet we're on (SCD). My youngest has made remarkable progress.

Their father used to have night terrors when he was a boy and also

had passed out a couple of times as a teen. I think this was all

due to blood sugar. His older brother was diagnosed with Type 1

diabetes at age 5.

It doesn't seem too uncoincidental.

So, I didn't realize glutamines were similiar to glucose. I am

trying to understand this and will have to go research it. Like,

does that mean if starved of glucose, the brain gets flooded with

glutamines for the waves of energy. Yet not being able to handle

the glutamate toxicity...goes into an seizure? And then there are

the types who run better on adrenaline (like myself and my oldest

daughter who are both super skinny and hyper) who escape this

effect? My ASD daughter not being the adrenaline type may have an

energy system that will tend to pump out glutamines instead of

norepinephrine (adrenaline)?

What do you think? You know much more than I do. Maybe you seem

something in this that I don't.

What I do know for sure is my oldest daughter has never been

better. As long as she doesn't get foods that make her blood sugar

rise and fall dramatically. My ASD daughter is doing radically

better...yet still has some abnormalities on her EEG. She has only

been on this diet for 6 months though so maybe there is much repair

to be done. Or...maybe the depakene is now messing with her energy

utilization now that it's still doing it's job blocking glutamines?

Thanks for your post.

Oh, I signed on with a different userID but I'm still Mindy

***************************************************

Interestingly, what I have further been reading is that IRON and

INSULIN potentiate eachother. If there is an imbalance in iron,

then insulin will be out of whack too.

From various sources I have read, in the U.S. we believe that if we

are anemic that we have a lack of iron. However, we only excrete 1

mg of iron a day. We eat fortified pastas, cereals, breads, etc. I

think what we lack is nutrients that help utilize and recycle the

iron we already have such as vitamin A, B12, etc.

CHildren with ASD are believed to have metal transport errors. Too

much free iron causes tons of oxidative damage. If a child already

has a metal transport defect, damage from environmental metals

(vaccines?), and then the mother takes iron loaded prenatal

vitamins, feeds iron fortified formulas, gives iron fortified

vitamin drops to the infant...there is a high liklihood of iron

overload. (Which also potentiates insulin!).

Iron is stored preferentially to the fetus. The pregant woman's

body goes to a lot of trouble to unload iron. An infant has its own

6 month supply of iron at birth.

Here is a wild looking website that explains it simply and in great

length. This is not the only place I've read this though. I've

read a lot on iron in other sources.

http://www.autismhelpforyou.com/Redefining%20The%20Role%20Of%

20Insulin.htm

I didn't mean for this to get so long, but wanted to put this out

there for everyone on the list to thumbs up or down. I'm not saying

this information is true for everyone, of course...but it really

makes sense in regards to what I know to be true for my kids.

Mindy

>

> Mindy, When meds like depakene are being taken the loss in B

Vitamins

> (as well as other things) is merely a side effect of the

medication -

> it is not the reason the medication works. You are smart to think

of

> supplementing for the vitamins and minerals that are depleted by

> AED's You are safe in using the B vitamins and magnesium as the

body

> will simply excrete excess amounts that it can not use.

>

> Have you thought of having a consultation regarding your daughter

> with The Pfeiffer Treatment Center? they specialize in the type of

> protocol you seem interested in using and they are very familiar

with

> working with children who take AED's as well. You can visit them

on

> the web for more information. Not sure but i think the website is

> www.hrip.org

>

> Good luck with your search for answers.

> M

[Guest guest]

Hi Grace.

Been working, cooking, running around like crazy so having a hard

time getting back online or even getting to sit down it seems! SCD

is that specific carb diet. I think asking the nutritionist for a

hypoglycemic diet will be a good and harmless experiment. I mean,

it's kind of how we should be eating anyway, ideally, I guess. For

now, you could experiment and see if giving her something right

before she goes to bed to try and help her blood sugar stay level

through the night is helpful. Don't know if that would work or not

or if they would need to be on a total hypoglycemic type diet to see

results? Anyway, a little protein something or whatever that might

stretch it through the night for her. I don't know. Good luck

though.

Mindy

> >

> > Mindy, When meds like depakene are being taken the loss in B

> Vitamins

> > (as well as other things) is merely a side effect of the

> medication -

> > it is not the reason the medication works. You are smart to

think

> of

> > supplementing for the vitamins and minerals that are depleted by

> > AED's You are safe in using the B vitamins and magnesium as the

> body

> > will simply excrete excess amounts that it can not use.

> >

> > Have you thought of having a consultation regarding your

daughter

> > with The Pfeiffer Treatment Center? they specialize in the type

of

> > protocol you seem interested in using and they are very familiar

> with

> > working with children who take AED's as well. You can visit them

> on

> > the web for more information. Not sure but i think the website

is

> > www.hrip.org

> >

> > Good luck with your search for answers.

> > M

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Mindy,

Thanks! Don't work too hard or get yourself too stressed out, make sure that

you take the time to breathe, take time for yourself.

Grace

littlroses <littlroses@...> wrote:

Hi Grace.

Been working, cooking, running around like crazy so having a hard

time getting back online or even getting to sit down it seems! SCD

is that specific carb diet. I think asking the nutritionist for a

hypoglycemic diet will be a good and harmless experiment. I mean,

it's kind of how we should be eating anyway, ideally, I guess. For

now, you could experiment and see if giving her something right

before she goes to bed to try and help her blood sugar stay level

through the night is helpful. Don't know if that would work or not

or if they would need to be on a total hypoglycemic type diet to see

results? Anyway, a little protein something or whatever that might

stretch it through the night for her. I don't know. Good luck

though.

Mindy

> >

> > Mindy, When meds like depakene are being taken the loss in B

> Vitamins

> > (as well as other things) is merely a side effect of the

> medication -

> > it is not the reason the medication works. You are smart to

think

> of

> > supplementing for the vitamins and minerals that are depleted by

> > AED's You are safe in using the B vitamins and magnesium as the

> body

> > will simply excrete excess amounts that it can not use.

> >

> > Have you thought of having a consultation regarding your

daughter

> > with The Pfeiffer Treatment Center? they specialize in the type

of

> > protocol you seem interested in using and they are very familiar

> with

> > working with children who take AED's as well. You can visit them

> on

> > the web for more information. Not sure but i think the website

is

> > www.hrip.org

> >

> > Good luck with your search for answers.

> > M

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Mindy,

I will tell you that my gut feeling told me to take my daughter off the meds

completely and change her diet and put her on supplements instead and I have not

regreted making that decision, in fact, I feel great that I made that decision

because, let's face it, natural is always better than the harsh drugs. I have

nothing agains the drugs if they worked and didn't cause the problems they did

for my daughter not to mention that it made my life a living hell from the

moment we put her on them.

My advice to you is, pray alot as I did and then let the Lord lead you in the

right direction, the right direction for me is when I get that strong gut

feeling that this is the right thing to do. I did not listen to both my neuro

and my Ped doctor and I am so happy that I didn't because they were both wrong.

Do what I did, my husband and I decided to go to the neuro's appointment and

told him that we both wanted our daughter off the meds and he had no choice but

to go along with it because it was utimately our decision not his. You know

your child better than anyone, your doctor only sees your child, what, every

month maybe less often? It is a very scary decision to have to make but you

cannot go wrong if you ask for the Lord's guidance. Take care and God Bless!

Grace

littlroses <littlroses@...> wrote:

My daughter is on depakene. She has been on it since she was 2

years old. She is now 7.

I want her off the drugs. At her last visit to the ped. neurologist

in Nov., he looked at her EEG and said they were significantly

improved, but could not take her off the medication.

From what I understand, valproic acid (or is it all seizure meds)

can cause readings on an EEG? Is this true? Can the medicine

itself cause EEG abnormalities?

He says she should be able to be off the meds by late teens. The

longer the meds keep her brain from going into seizures, the better

she'll get. Basically, the brain wants to do familiar patterns so

preventing it from doing so will keep her safer from seizures.

My husband and I argued last night about what to do. He says we

must do what's best for her. I agree of course, but I don't know

that meds are what's best for her. The doc says the meds are best

for her. In my heart, I think I can help her without them. I

helped her by changing her diet. That's how she got

the " significantly improved " results on the EEG.

I know her side effects are significant. I know the valproic acid

is dumping lots of bismuth into her. I know it does a lot of bad

things. The one good thing it does is keep her from having seizures.

Of course, the doc believes in the meds...nothing alternative. He

does not know I changed her diet.

I would like to know if anyone has specificially weaned their child

from valproic acid. Were they on the drug a long time or short

time? What were the weaning side effects experienced? Were there

rebound seizures from the weaning?

Do meds cause blips on the EEGs?

This doc doesn't want me to take her off the meds. I want to take

her off the meds...but don't know if that truly is the right thing

to do or not. My gut is telling me that because it's valproic ACID

then her gut may never truly heal if the ACID part is messing with

her gut. But how do I tell that to a doctor who will think I am a

nutjob? How do I convince a doctor to take her off drugs? Or do I

convince? Do I just demand?

I feeling a little distraught today because, it's just so hard to

love someone so much and not know how to help them...I'm sure you

all must know very well!

Thanks

Mindy

[Guest guest]

Mindy,

Maybe that's what I'll have to do, cut up her meat in very small pieces. That

is interesting about the holocust survivors. I know what you mean about wanting

your child off the meds. I have my daughter off of them, but she still has

seizures and I'm trying to do everything I can to help her naturally. Only God

knows if it will work. I want to stay away from the meds, but we'll have to

wait and see, I guess.

Grace

littlroses <littlroses@...> wrote:

My daughter's seizures are controlled. The EEGs had begun to worsen

at one point until I made some dietary changes. Then they were

significantly improved. Though her seizures are controlled, I

love/hate (but mostly hate) the valproic acid. I am working hard to

get her drug free. I am hoping by next November that we can get her

off. She actually is going to see her ped. neurologist next Friday

and I was agonizing whether or not to convince him to take her off

drugs. Which is really hard because he really is for the drugs. I

only a short while ago was asking the group about this. I anxiety

about this whenever her appointments come up with him so I was

posting to get thoughts and somewhat alleviate some of that anxiety.

Anyway, something came up for plans this summer that would make

experimenting weaning an uncomfortable idea. November will be the

timeframe both my husband and I could agree on.

My daughter doesn't chew her food very well either. Both my husband

and I have gotten into the habit of cutting up her meat as small as

we can. Don't know if it helps, but it makes us feel like it does.

Although...

I did read once somewhere about some holocaust prisoners. They were

able to survive while others were dying around them from

starvation. I think it was 3 men. The thing they did differently

was that when they did get food, they chewed it until it was like

liquid before they swallowed it. It does seem like an interesting

and reasonable idea that the less work your digestive system has to

do, the more it can extract nutritionally?? Especially if you have

a compromised digestive system? Either way, we cut up her steak

(and other foods) extra small these days or she wolfs it down. It's

one of those things that doesn't hurt whether or not it's right or

wrong, ykwim? LOL I will have to go find that holocaust survivor

story sometime, it was interesting.

Mindy

> > > > > Mindy,

> > > > > This is a fascinating insight. Are you a member of the

> > group

> > > > > epilepsyresearch ?

> > > > >

> > > > > My son was considered highly functioning ASD and ADHD. He

> did

> > test

> > > > low

> > > > > for cystiene. His seizures are controlled now using the

> > modified

> > > > > version of the Atkins Diet that s Hopkins is doing.

> > > > >

> > > > >

> > > >

> > > >

> > > >

> > > >

> > > >

> > > >

> > > >

[Guest guest]

Praying for a best case scenario for you Mindy. Love, Anita Any suggestions? Hi it's Mindy. I had my MRI of the brain and the spinal cord. It wasn't fun to be in the tube for an hour; however, I kept thinking that this is the final test before the explant. The MRI tech said everything looks normal (No MS – Thank you Jesus!) I have my allergy test set up for Monday. Is there anything, I should be tested for? Tin? Heavy Metals, etc.?Also, I am sure I should be preparing my body for the explant? Any suggestions? Drink lots of water, etc.? Thanks for all your support and I have placed TK's wife on my prayer list. This is how I look at it. The worse case scenario is that my health remains the same after the explant, I am $5,000 in the hole (you can't put a price on your health) and I can't enjoy having them any way since I am so sick. Best-case scenario is that I regain my life back, play with my children again and grow, learn and share this whole experience.Love, Mindy

[Guest guest]

actually they are hard to follow and she doesn't cue well for me. i remember tyring awsome intervals and i kept trying to repeat the warm up and interval one and just kept tripping up. the same with cardio toolbox. they look like great workouts and she makes them look easy but jsut not for me. i will stick with my cathe's and the CIA series i have for complex cardio. i can find just as good cardio workouts that will cost me way less without all the aggrevation of learning steps. kassiaPink Pussycat <pinkpussycat@...> wrote: I haven't seen any of Mindy's workouts. I take it the cardio ones are more for beginners?

Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less.

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 10/16/2006 7:53:26 P.M. US Eastern Standard Time, ldy_solana@... writes:

the same with cardio toolbox. they look like great workouts and she makes them look easy but jsut not for me.

I actually have a couple of her workouts scheduled for the next couple of weeks. The first time I did her workouts that's when my knee started hurting really bad so I hesitate to try any more of her. I have to agree, I'd rather just stick with Cathe.

[Guest guest]

Mindy, What part of AR. are you from? I'm from Prescott, (near Hope)...There are several of us ladies from AR on this board...They are , , Gloria and myself... To answer your question...Your fills are free (except hospital fee of $85.00) if you can get back to Dr. A. but some like myself can't do that (air fare is higher than a fill). I go to LA to Dr. and I pay $190.00 per fill...I'm almost 1 year out and I've had 2 fills...I've lost 65 lbs...I actually lost that weight in the 1st 6 months... I don't know if anyone can tell you how many fills you'll need we are all different but if I was to guess you wouldn't need over 3 or 4 for the whole year...Now remember that is just a guess, it all depends on if the doctor gives you enough the 1st time...The 1st few times is the hardest because your doctor doesn't want to over fill you so usually they'll add 1cc (depnding on the band size,

my band will hold 4cc)...So plan for at least 4 and see where that gets you... Sorry I can't be more precise... Someone who has lost that much may can help better than I... Good luck and best wishes, Rena DOB: 9/26/06 204/139/135mindy mcfarland <mmcfarland2001@...> wrote: Does anyone know how many fills and unfills to suspect. I live in Arkansas and am trying to plan for this finacially

all the way around. I need to lose 200 lbs. I have read where some of you are having fills 6 weeks after surgery. Do you plan this in your airfare or at least the first couple of surgerys? Someone please let me know what you can if you have lost this much or close. Thanks Mindyterrina bell <terrinabell > wrote: I'm having my surgery on the 20th Hope I get to meet you, and good luckrrdibell <r.dibellmchsi> wrote: Genia,I am scheduled for the lapband on 8/21. I am more than excited. As a nurse this is the only procedure I have considered. The lapband is completely adjustable and reversable. Bypass is not. You have fewer to no absorption problems

with the lapband as you are not permanently changing the anatomy. With gastric bypass you have a larger chance for dumping (significant diarrhea and decreased absorption of essential nutrients.) They are also now realizing it is possible for those with the bypass to stretch their pouches out and start gaining the weight back. There are several cases of people going back for "the band after" where they get the lapband even after having a bypass. From a healthcare standpoint I consider the lapband very safe with few potential complications. I have no second questions about having it done or having Dr Aceves do it. Hope this helps.Randi>> I just would like to know why you all chose lapband and not gastric bypass > and if any of you know anyone that chose

gastric bybass how it worked?> I only know people in my area that have had the gastric bypass..that is why > I am asking> > Genia Everett> Peke Rescue> > We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals.> --Immanuel Kent--> > Please don't breed or buy while shelter pets DIE!> OPT TO ADOPT!!!!> > > > > > > > ************************************** Get a sneak peek of the all-new AOL at > http://discover.aol.com/memed/aolcom30tour> Shape in your own image. Join our Network Research Panel today! Fussy? Opinionated? Impossible to please? Perfect. Join 's user panel and lay it on us.

Got a little couch potato?

Check out fun summer activities for kids.

[Guest guest]

Rena, I live in NW AR outside of Fayetteville. I have been worried about the procedure and up keep. Are you down to your goal weight? 200 is a lot but even afterwards have you found out anything about plastic surgery to remove the fat and the cost of that? So many questions. Please help if you can. Mindyrena brown <rena71857@...> wrote: Mindy, What part of AR. are you from? I'm from Prescott, (near Hope)...There are several of us ladies from AR on this board...They are , ,

Gloria and myself... To answer your question...Your fills are free (except hospital fee of $85.00) if you can get back to Dr. A. but some like myself can't do that (air fare is higher than a fill). I go to LA to Dr. and I pay $190.00 per fill...I'm almost 1 year out and I've had 2 fills...I've lost 65 lbs...I actually lost that weight in the 1st 6 months... I don't know if anyone can tell you how many fills you'll need we are all different but if I was to guess you wouldn't need over 3 or 4 for the whole year...Now remember that is just a guess, it all depends on if the doctor gives you enough the 1st time...The 1st few times is the hardest because your doctor doesn't want to over fill you so usually they'll add 1cc (depnding on the band size, my band will hold 4cc)...So plan for at least 4 and see where that gets you... Sorry I can't be more precise...

Someone who has lost that much may can help better than I... Good luck and best wishes, Rena DOB: 9/26/06 204/139/135mindy mcfarland <mmcfarland2001 > wrote: Does anyone know how many fills and unfills to suspect. I live in Arkansas and am trying to plan for this finacially all the way around. I need to lose 200 lbs. I have read where some of you are having fills 6 weeks after surgery. Do you plan this in your airfare or at least the first couple of surgerys? Someone please let me know what you can if you have lost this much or close. Thanks Mindyterrina bell <terrinabell > wrote: I'm having my surgery on the 20th Hope I get to meet you, and good luckrrdibell <r.dibellmchsi> wrote: Genia,I am scheduled for the lapband on 8/21. I am more than excited. As a nurse this is the only procedure I have considered. The lapband is completely adjustable and reversable. Bypass is not. You have fewer to no absorption problems with the lapband as you are not permanently changing the anatomy. With gastric bypass you have a larger chance for dumping (significant diarrhea and decreased absorption of essential nutrients.) They are also now realizing it is possible for those with the bypass to stretch their pouches out and start gaining the weight back. There are several cases of people going back for "the band after" where they get the lapband even

after having a bypass. From a healthcare standpoint I consider the lapband very safe with few potential complications. I have no second questions about having it done or having Dr Aceves do it. Hope this helps.Randi>> I just would like to know why you all chose lapband and not gastric bypass > and if any of you know anyone that chose gastric bybass how it worked?> I only know people in my area that have had the gastric bypass..that is why > I am asking> > Genia Everett> Peke Rescue> > We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals.> --Immanuel Kent--> > Please don't breed or buy while shelter pets DIE!> OPT TO ADOPT!!!!> > > > > > >

> ************************************** Get a sneak peek of the all-new AOL at > http://discover.aol.com/memed/aolcom30tour> Shape in your own image. Join our Network Research Panel today! Fussy? Opinionated? Impossible to please? Perfect. Join 's user panel and lay it on us. Got a little couch potato? Check out fun summer activities for kids.

oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not web links.

[Guest guest]

Hi Mindy, My name is Bobo and I am from Hope, AR but I was raised in Fayettevile and Springdale until I was 12 years old. I was banded by Dr. A on 6/22/07 and it was the best investment I have ever made. I have lost 37# total (8# prior to surgery and 29# since my surgery) I have not had a fill yet and probably won't get one for a while. I have been one of the lucky ones and I have not been hungry and it has just been so easy. I get full on 1 1/2 chicken tenderloin and veggies. Before I would have probably ate 2 whole chicken breast and lots of other unhealthy things! I went to Mexico by myself and everything went great. But I would probably recommend that you take someone with you if you can. Dr. A and his entire group is wonderful and I don't think that you will regret it if you have it done. Just make sure you are ready for the committment, because the band is just a tool and you have to

make up your mind that this is what you want. Good luck in your decision and if I can help just let me know. Bobo DOB 6/22/07 pre surg 254 245/216/145 mindy mcfarland <mmcfarland2001@...> wrote: Rena, I live in NW AR outside of Fayetteville. I have been worried about the procedure and up keep. Are you down to your goal weight? 200 is a lot but even afterwards have you

found out anything about plastic surgery to remove the fat and the cost of that? So many questions. Please help if you can. Mindyrena brown <rena71857 > wrote: Mindy, What part of AR. are you from? I'm from Prescott, (near Hope)...There are several of us ladies from AR on this board...They are , , Gloria and myself... To answer your question...Your fills are free (except hospital fee of $85.00) if you can get back to Dr. A. but some like myself can't do that (air fare is higher than a fill). I go to LA to Dr. and I pay $190.00 per fill...I'm almost 1 year out and I've had 2 fills...I've lost 65 lbs...I actually lost that weight in the 1st 6 months... I don't know if anyone can tell you how many fills you'll need we

are all different but if I was to guess you wouldn't need over 3 or 4 for the whole year...Now remember that is just a guess, it all depends on if the doctor gives you enough the 1st time...The 1st few times is the hardest because your doctor doesn't want to over fill you so usually they'll add 1cc (depnding on the band size, my band will hold 4cc)...So plan for at least 4 and see where that gets you... Sorry I can't be more precise... Someone who has lost that much may can help better than I... Good luck and best wishes, Rena DOB: 9/26/06 204/139/135mindy mcfarland <mmcfarland2001 > wrote: Does anyone know how many fills and unfills to suspect. I live in Arkansas and am trying to plan

for this finacially all the way around. I need to lose 200 lbs. I have read where some of you are having fills 6 weeks after surgery. Do you plan this in your airfare or at least the first couple of surgerys? Someone please let me know what you can if you have lost this much or close. Thanks Mindyterrina bell <terrinabell > wrote: I'm having my surgery on the 20th Hope I get to meet you, and good luckrrdibell <r.dibellmchsi> wrote: Genia,I am scheduled for the lapband on 8/21. I am more than excited. As a nurse this is the only procedure I have considered. The lapband is completely adjustable and reversable. Bypass is not. You have fewer to no

absorption problems with the lapband as you are not permanently changing the anatomy. With gastric bypass you have a larger chance for dumping (significant diarrhea and decreased absorption of essential nutrients.) They are also now realizing it is possible for those with the bypass to stretch their pouches out and start gaining the weight back. There are several cases of people going back for "the band after" where they get the lapband even after having a bypass. From a healthcare standpoint I consider the lapband very safe with few potential complications. I have no second questions about having it done or having Dr Aceves do it. Hope this helps.Randi>> I just would like to know why you all chose lapband and not gastric bypass > and if any of you know

anyone that chose gastric bybass how it worked?> I only know people in my area that have had the gastric bypass..that is why > I am asking> > Genia Everett> Peke Rescue> > We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals.> --Immanuel Kent--> > Please don't breed or buy while shelter pets DIE!> OPT TO ADOPT!!!!> > > > > > > > ************************************** Get a sneak peek of the all-new AOL at > http://discover.aol.com/memed/aolcom30tour> Shape in your own image. Join our Network Research Panel today! Fussy? Opinionated? Impossible to please? Perfect. Join 's user panel and lay it on us. Got a little couch potato? Check out fun summer activities for kids. oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not web links.

Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha! Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at Games.

[Guest guest]

Thanks , I am already making the life style changes because I wanted to make sure I really could do it. It is just trying to lose so much weight gets over whelming but i keep telling myself i didn't gain over night so it won't come off that way either. I am really considering having it done I just worry of the cost of upkeep. How have you lost so much from 245 to 145 and never had a fill? Or do those numbers mean something else? Because I see dob is 6/27/07 just a few months ago. So please fill me in I am also thinking do this and have no money to have my extra fat and stomach removed. I have a lot to consider I just want to be healthy and thinner. Thanks Mindy 479-221-5755 Feel free to call in the evenings vanessa bobo <vjbobo2003@...> wrote: Hi Mindy, My name is Bobo and I am from Hope, AR but I was raised in Fayettevile and Springdale until I was 12 years old. I was banded by Dr. A on 6/22/07 and it was the best investment I have ever made. I have lost 37# total (8# prior to surgery and 29# since my surgery) I have not had a fill yet and probably won't get one for a while. I have been one of the lucky ones and I have not been hungry and it has just been so easy. I get full on 1 1/2 chicken tenderloin and veggies. Before I would have probably ate 2 whole chicken breast and lots of other unhealthy things! I went to Mexico by myself and

everything went great. But I would probably recommend that you take someone with you if you can. Dr. A and his entire group is wonderful and I don't think that you will regret it if you have it done. Just make sure you are ready for the committment, because the band is just a tool and you have to make up your mind that this is what you want. Good luck in your decision and if I can help just let me know. Bobo DOB 6/22/07 pre surg 254 245/216/145 mindy mcfarland <mmcfarland2001 > wrote: Rena, I live in NW AR outside of Fayetteville. I have been worried about the procedure and up keep. Are you down to your goal weight? 200 is a lot but even afterwards

have you found out anything about plastic surgery to remove the fat and the cost of that? So many questions. Please help if you can. Mindyrena brown <rena71857 > wrote: Mindy, What part of AR. are you from? I'm from Prescott, (near Hope)...There are several of us ladies from AR on this board...They are , , Gloria and myself... To answer your question...Your fills are free (except hospital fee of $85.00) if you can get back to Dr. A. but some like myself can't do that (air fare is higher than a fill). I go to LA to Dr. and I pay $190.00 per fill...I'm almost 1 year out and I've had 2 fills...I've lost 65 lbs...I actually lost that weight in the 1st 6 months... I don't know if anyone can tell you how many fills you'll

need we are all different but if I was to guess you wouldn't need over 3 or 4 for the whole year...Now remember that is just a guess, it all depends on if the doctor gives you enough the 1st time...The 1st few times is the hardest because your doctor doesn't want to over fill you so usually they'll add 1cc (depnding on the band size, my band will hold 4cc)...So plan for at least 4 and see where that gets you... Sorry I can't be more precise... Someone who has lost that much may can help better than I... Good luck and best wishes, Rena DOB: 9/26/06 204/139/135mindy mcfarland <mmcfarland2001 > wrote: Does anyone know how many fills and unfills to suspect. I live in Arkansas and am trying

to plan for this finacially all the way around. I need to lose 200 lbs. I have read where some of you are having fills 6 weeks after surgery. Do you plan this in your airfare or at least the first couple of surgerys? Someone please let me know what you can if you have lost this much or close. Thanks Mindyterrina bell <terrinabell > wrote: I'm having my surgery on the 20th Hope I get to meet you, and good luckrrdibell <r.dibellmchsi> wrote: Genia,I am scheduled for the lapband on 8/21. I am more than excited. As a nurse this is the only procedure I have considered. The lapband is completely adjustable and reversable. Bypass is not. You have fewer

to no absorption problems with the lapband as you are not permanently changing the anatomy. With gastric bypass you have a larger chance for dumping (significant diarrhea and decreased absorption of essential nutrients.) They are also now realizing it is possible for those with the bypass to stretch their pouches out and start gaining the weight back. There are several cases of people going back for "the band after" where they get the lapband even after having a bypass. From a healthcare standpoint I consider the lapband very safe with few potential complications. I have no second questions about having it done or having Dr Aceves do it. Hope this helps.Randi>> I just would like to know why you all chose lapband and not gastric bypass > and if any of you

know anyone that chose gastric bybass how it worked?> I only know people in my area that have had the gastric bypass..that is why > I am asking> > Genia Everett> Peke Rescue> > We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals.> --Immanuel Kent--> > Please don't breed or buy while shelter pets DIE!> OPT TO ADOPT!!!!> > > > > > > > ************************************** Get a sneak peek of the all-new AOL at > http://discover.aol.com/memed/aolcom30tour> Shape in your own image. Join our Network Research Panel today! Fussy? Opinionated? Impossible to please? Perfect. Join 's user panel and lay it on us. Got a little couch potato? Check out fun summer activities for kids. oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not web links. Boardwalk for $500? In

2007? Ha! Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at Games.

Need a vacation? Get great deals to amazing places on Travel.

[Guest guest]

Mindy, The first number is your weight at surgery, second number is what you weight at this time and the third number is your goal weight. DOB is your date that you got banded. As of this morning I am down 42#. It is coming off about 2-5# a week. I try and get my proteins from the foods I eat. I do drink a protein drink usually for breakfast. It is called Right Size and I buy it off the internet. It probably isn't quite as high in protein as some of the others that people talk about on this board(18grams when made with skim milk) but when mixed with ice and skim milk in the blender it taste like a chocolate milkshake from the Sonic! I have tried some of the Whey powders from Wal-mart and I just have a hard time getting them down. I eat alot of chicken and alot of fresh veggies. I guess I have been very fortunate with my band, because it has been 10 weeks since I was banded and I am still loosing weight

and I get very full on just a little bit of food. It is really weird! But I have talked to Gaby and she told me as long as I wasn't getting hungry and I am still loosing weight not to worry about getting a fill right now. So I am just waiting. I really believe that you will not regret this decision, and I promise you you will not find a more competent and compassionate Dr. than Dr. A and his team. It has been a life changing experience for me! Please keep us posted on how you are doing. Good Luck. Bobo DOB 6/22/07 pre surg 253 245/211/145mindy mcfarland <mmcfarland2001@...> wrote: Thanks , I am already making the life style changes because I wanted to make sure I really could do it. It is just trying to lose so much weight gets over whelming but i keep telling myself i didn't gain over night so it won't come off that way either. I am really considering having it done I just worry of the cost of upkeep. How have you lost so much from 245 to 145 and never had a fill? Or do those numbers mean something else? Because I see dob is 6/27/07 just a few months ago. So please fill me in I am also thinking do this and have no money to have my extra fat and stomach removed. I have a lot to consider I just want to be healthy and thinner. Thanks Mindy

479-221-5755 Feel free to call in the evenings vanessa bobo <vjbobo2003 > wrote: Hi Mindy, My name is Bobo and I am from Hope, AR but I was raised in Fayettevile and Springdale until I was 12 years old. I was banded by Dr. A on 6/22/07 and it was the best investment I have ever made. I have lost 37# total (8# prior to surgery and 29# since my surgery) I have not had a fill yet and probably won't get one for a while. I have been one of the lucky ones and I have not been hungry and it has just been so easy. I get full on 1 1/2 chicken tenderloin and veggies. Before I would have probably ate 2 whole chicken breast and lots of other unhealthy things! I went to Mexico by myself and everything went great. But I would probably recommend

that you take someone with you if you can. Dr. A and his entire group is wonderful and I don't think that you will regret it if you have it done. Just make sure you are ready for the committment, because the band is just a tool and you have to make up your mind that this is what you want. Good luck in your decision and if I can help just let me know. Bobo DOB 6/22/07 pre surg 254 245/216/145 mindy mcfarland <mmcfarland2001 > wrote: Rena, I live in NW AR outside of Fayetteville. I have been worried about the procedure and up keep. Are you down to your goal weight? 200 is a lot but even afterwards have you found out anything about plastic surgery to remove the

fat and the cost of that? So many questions. Please help if you can. Mindyrena brown <rena71857 > wrote: Mindy, What part of AR. are you from? I'm from Prescott, (near Hope)...There are several of us ladies from AR on this board...They are , , Gloria and myself... To answer your question...Your fills are free (except hospital fee of $85.00) if you can get back to Dr. A. but some like myself can't do that (air fare is higher than a fill). I go to LA to Dr. and I pay $190.00 per fill...I'm almost 1 year out and I've had 2 fills...I've lost 65 lbs...I actually lost that weight in the 1st 6 months... I don't know if anyone can tell you how many fills you'll need we are all different but if I was to guess you wouldn't

need over 3 or 4 for the whole year...Now remember that is just a guess, it all depends on if the doctor gives you enough the 1st time...The 1st few times is the hardest because your doctor doesn't want to over fill you so usually they'll add 1cc (depnding on the band size, my band will hold 4cc)...So plan for at least 4 and see where that gets you... Sorry I can't be more precise... Someone who has lost that much may can help better than I... Good luck and best wishes, Rena DOB: 9/26/06 204/139/135mindy mcfarland <mmcfarland2001 > wrote: Does anyone know how many fills and unfills to suspect. I live in Arkansas and am trying to plan for this finacially all the way around. I need to

lose 200 lbs. I have read where some of you are having fills 6 weeks after surgery. Do you plan this in your airfare or at least the first couple of surgerys? Someone please let me know what you can if you have lost this much or close. Thanks Mindyterrina bell <terrinabell > wrote: I'm having my surgery on the 20th Hope I get to meet you, and good luckrrdibell <r.dibellmchsi> wrote: Genia,I am scheduled for the lapband on 8/21. I am more than excited. As a nurse this is the only procedure I have considered. The lapband is completely adjustable and reversable. Bypass is not. You have fewer to no absorption problems with the lapband as you are not

permanently changing the anatomy. With gastric bypass you have a larger chance for dumping (significant diarrhea and decreased absorption of essential nutrients.) They are also now realizing it is possible for those with the bypass to stretch their pouches out and start gaining the weight back. There are several cases of people going back for "the band after" where they get the lapband even after having a bypass. From a healthcare standpoint I consider the lapband very safe with few potential complications. I have no second questions about having it done or having Dr Aceves do it. Hope this helps.Randi>> I just would like to know why you all chose lapband and not gastric bypass > and if any of you know anyone that chose gastric bybass how it

worked?> I only know people in my area that have had the gastric bypass..that is why > I am asking> > Genia Everett> Peke Rescue> > We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals.> --Immanuel Kent--> > Please don't breed or buy while shelter pets DIE!> OPT TO ADOPT!!!!> > > > > > > > ************************************** Get a sneak peek of the all-new AOL at > http://discover.aol.com/memed/aolcom30tour> Shape in your own image. Join our Network Research Panel today! Fussy? Opinionated? Impossible to please? Perfect. Join 's user panel and lay it on us. Got a little couch potato? Check out fun summer activities for kids. oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not web links. Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha! Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at Games. Need a vacation? Get great deals to amazing places on Travel.

Luggage? GPS? Comic books?

Check out fitting gifts for grads at Search.

[Guest guest]

Hi Mindy,

You'll probably have a great many replies to your question on 's weight loss. The first number is the pre-band weight, the middle number is the current weight, the last number is the goal weight. lost 9 pounds since banding in July. Having a stomach to heal and being on a liquid diet does that to anyone. As Bipley pointed out, most often the initial weight loss is simply fluid loss, because of diarheea.

Now, if someone could enlighten me about the dreaded PB or BP, I am not sure which. I am guessing it has to do with voiding food through the esophagus. No graphic details, just a simple explanation, please.

Many thanks,

Margaret

On 8/30/07, mindy mcfarland <mmcfarland2001@...> wrote:

Thanks ,

I am already making the life style changes because I wanted to make sure I really could do it. It is just trying to lose so much weight gets over whelming but i keep telling myself i didn't gain over night so it won't come off that way either. I am really considering having it done I just worry of the cost of upkeep. How have you lost so much from 245 to 145 and never had a fill? Or do those numbers mean something else? Because I see dob is 6/27/07 just a few months ago. So please fill me in I am also thinking do this and have no money to have my extra fat and stomach removed. I have a lot to consider I just want to be healthy and thinner. Thanks Mindy 479-221-5755 Feel free to call in the evenings

vanessa bobo <vjbobo2003@...> wrote:

Hi Mindy,

My name is Bobo and I am from Hope, AR but I was raised in Fayettevile and Springdale until I was 12 years old. I was banded by Dr. A on 6/22/07 and it was the best investment I have ever made. I have lost 37# total (8# prior to surgery and 29# since my surgery) I have not had a fill yet and probably won't get one for a while. I have been one of the lucky ones and I have not been hungry and it has just been so easy. I get full on 1 1/2 chicken tenderloin and veggies. Before I would have probably ate 2 whole chicken breast and lots of other unhealthy things! I went to Mexico by myself and everything went great. But I would probably recommend that you take someone with you if you can. Dr. A and his entire group is wonderful and I don't think that you will regret it if you have it done. Just make sure you are ready for the committment, because the band is just a tool and you have to make up your mind that this is what you want. Good luck in your decision and if I can help just let me know.

Bobo

DOB 6/22/07

pre surg 254 245/216/145

mindy mcfarland <mmcfarland2001 > wrote:

Rena,

I live in NW AR outside of Fayetteville. I have been worried about the procedure and up keep. Are you down to your goal weight? 200 is a lot but even afterwards have you found out anything about plastic surgery to remove the fat and the cost of that? So many questions. Please help if you can. Mindy

rena brown <rena71857@...> wrote:

Mindy, What part of AR. are you from? I'm from Prescott, (near Hope)...There are several of us ladies from AR on this board...They are , , Gloria and myself...

To answer your question...Your fills are free (except hospital fee of $85.00) if you can get back to Dr. A. but some like myself can't do that (air fare is higher than a fill). I go to LA to Dr. and I pay $190.00 per fill...I'm almost 1 year out and I've had 2 fills...I've lost 65 lbs...I actually lost that weight in the 1st 6 months...

I don't know if anyone can tell you how many fills you'll need we are all different but if I was to guess you wouldn't need over 3 or 4 for the whole year...Now remember that is just a guess, it all depends on if the doctor gives you enough the 1st time...The 1st few times is the hardest because your doctor doesn't want to over fill you so usually they'll add 1cc (depnding on the band size, my band will hold 4cc)...So plan for at least 4 and see where that gets you...

Sorry I can't be more precise... Someone who has lost that much may can help better than I...

Good luck and best wishes,

Rena

DOB: 9/26/06

204/139/135mindy mcfarland <mmcfarland2001 > wrote:

Does anyone know how many fills and unfills to suspect. I live in Arkansas and am trying to plan for this finacially all the way around. I need to lose 200 lbs. I have read where some of you are having fills 6 weeks after surgery. Do you plan this in your airfare or at least the first couple of surgerys? Someone please let me know what you can if you have lost this much or close. Thanks Mindy

terrina bell <terrinabell > wrote:

I'm having my surgery on the 20th Hope I get to meet you, and good luckrrdibell <r.dibell@...> wrote:

Genia,I am scheduled for the lapband on 8/21. I am more than excited. As a nurse this is the only procedure I have considered. The lapband is completely adjustable and reversable. Bypass is not. You have fewer to no absorption problems with the lapband as you are not permanently changing the anatomy. With gastric bypass you have a larger chance for dumping (significant diarrhea and decreased absorption of essential nutrients.) They are also now realizing it is possible for those with the bypass to stretch their pouches out and start gaining the weight back. There are several cases of people going back for " the band after " where they get the lapband

even after having a bypass. From a healthcare standpoint I consider the lapband very safe with few potential complications. I have no second questions about having it done or having Dr Aceves do it. Hope this helps.

Randi

>> I just would like to know why you all chose lapband and not gastric bypass > and if any of you know anyone that chose gastric bybass how it worked?> I only know people in my area that have had the gastric bypass..that is why > I am asking> > Genia Everett> Peke Rescue> > We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals.> --Immanuel Kent--> > Please don't breed or buy while shelter pets DIE!

> OPT TO ADOPT!!!!> > > > > > > > ************************************** Get a sneak peek of the all-new AOL at >

http://discover.aol.com/memed/aolcom30tour>

Shape in your own image. Join our Network Research Panel today!

Fussy? Opinionated? Impossible to please? Perfect.

Join 's user panel and lay it on us.

Got a little couch potato? Check out fun

summer activities for kids.

oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers

, not web links.

Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha! Play Monopoly Here and Now

(it's updated for today's economy) at Games.

Need a vacation?

Get great deals to amazing places on Travel.

[Guest guest]

Hi Mindy,

I too am from Arkansas. I was banded on Aug the 1st. I have lost as of today 21 pds. I have not been at all hungry...I just got off the phase of mushy foods as stated there is a healing time. First 10 days is clear liquids, 2nd 10 days is liquids like cream soups, the 3rd 10 days is mushy type foods. I am just beginning on reg foods but I dont see a problem of continuing losing because I am still getting full with just a couple of bites. This band is prolly the best thing I could have ever bought for myself. I highly recommend it. If you would like to talk , call me anytime at 870-403-8545.

DOB

8/1/07

207/186/130

And marg,, the PB is like regurgitating....lol

Re: Re: Mindy

Hi Mindy,

You'll probably have a great many replies to your question on 's weight loss. The first number is the pre-band weight, the middle number is the current weight, the last number is the goal weight. lost 9 pounds since banding in July. Having a stomach to heal and being on a liquid diet does that to anyone. As Bipley pointed out, most often the initial weight loss is simply fluid loss, because of diarheea.

Now, if someone could enlighten me about the dreaded PB or BP, I am not sure which. I am guessing it has to do with voiding food through the esophagus. No graphic details, just a simple explanation, please.

Many thanks,

Margaret

On 8/30/07, mindy mcfarland <mmcfarland2001> wrote:

Thanks ,

I am already making the life style changes because I wanted to make sure I really could do it. It is just trying to lose so much weight gets over whelming but i keep telling myself i didn't gain over night so it won't come off that way either. I am really considering having it done I just worry of the cost of upkeep. How have you lost so much from 245 to 145 and never had a fill? Or do those numbers mean something else? Because I see dob is 6/27/07 just a few months ago. So please fill me in I am also thinking do this and have no money to have my extra fat and stomach removed. I have a lot to consider I just want to be healthy and thinner. Thanks Mindy 479-221-5755 Feel free to call in the evenings vanessa bobo <vjbobo2003 (DOT) com> wrote:

Hi Mindy,

My name is Bobo and I am from Hope, AR but I was raised in Fayettevile and Springdale until I was 12 years old. I was banded by Dr. A on 6/22/07 and it was the best investment I have ever made. I have lost 37# total (8# prior to surgery and 29# since my surgery) I have not had a fill yet and probably won't get one for a while. I have been one of the lucky ones and I have not been hungry and it has just been so easy. I get full on 1 1/2 chicken tenderloin and veggies. Before I would have probably ate 2 whole chicken breast and lots of other unhealthy things! I went to Mexico by myself and everything went great. But I would probably recommend that you take someone with you if you can. Dr. A and his entire group is wonderful and I don't think that you will regret it if you have it done. Just make sure you are ready for the committment, because the band is just a tool and you have to

make up your mind that this is what you want. Good luck in your decision and if I can help just let me know.

Bobo

DOB 6/22/07

pre surg 254 245/216/145

mindy mcfarland <mmcfarland2001 > wrote:

Rena,

I live in NW AR outside of Fayetteville. I have been worried about the procedure and up keep. Are you down to your goal weight? 200 is a lot but even afterwards have you found out anything about plastic surgery to remove the fat and the cost of that? So many questions. Please help if you can. Mindy rena brown <rena71857 (DOT) com> wrote:

Mindy, What part of AR. are you from? I'm from Prescott, (near Hope)...There are several of us ladies from AR on this board...They are , , Gloria and myself...

To answer your question...Your fills are free (except hospital fee of $85.00) if you can get back to Dr. A. but some like myself can't do that (air fare is higher than a fill). I go to LA to Dr. and I pay $190.00 per fill...I'm almost 1 year out and I've had 2 fills...I've lost 65 lbs...I actually lost that weight in the 1st 6 months...

I don't know if anyone can tell you how many fills you'll need we are all different but if I was to guess you wouldn't need over 3 or 4 for the whole year...Now remember that is just a guess, it all depends on if the doctor gives you enough the 1st time...The 1st few times is the hardest because your doctor doesn't want to over fill you so usually they'll add 1cc (depnding on the band size, my band will hold 4cc)...So plan for at least 4 and see where that gets you...

Sorry I can't be more precise... Someone who has lost that much may can help better than I...

Good luck and best wishes,

Rena

DOB: 9/26/06

204/139/135mindy mcfarland <mmcfarland2001 > wrote:

Does anyone know how many fills and unfills to suspect. I live in Arkansas and am trying to plan for this finacially all the way around. I need to lose 200 lbs. I have read where some of you are having fills 6 weeks after surgery. Do you plan this in your airfare or at least the first couple of surgerys? Someone please let me know what you can if you have lost this much or close. Thanks Mindy terrina bell <terrinabell > wrote:

I'm having my surgery on the 20th Hope I get to meet you, and good luckrrdibell <r.dibellmchsi (DOT) com> wrote:

Genia,I am scheduled for the lapband on 8/21. I am more than excited. As a nurse this is the only procedure I have considered. The lapband is completely adjustable and reversable. Bypass is not. You have fewer to no absorption problems with the lapband as you are not permanently changing the anatomy. With gastric bypass you have a larger chance for dumping (significant diarrhea and decreased absorption of essential nutrients.) They are also now realizing it is possible for those with the bypass to stretch their pouches out and start gaining the weight back. There are several cases of people going back for "the band after" where they get the lapband even after having a bypass. From a healthcare standpoint I consider the lapband very safe with few potential complications. I have no second questions about having it done or having Dr Aceves do it. Hope this helps. Randi>> I just would like to know why you all chose lapband and not gastric bypass > and if any of you know anyone that chose gastric bybass how it worked?> I only know people in my area that have had the gastric bypass..that is why > I am asking> > Genia Everett> Peke Rescue> > We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals.> --Immanuel Kent--> > Please don't breed or buy while shelter pets DIE! > OPT TO ADOPT!!!!> > > > > > > > ************ ********* ********* ******** Get a sneak peek of the all-new AOL at > http://discover. aol.com/memed/

aolcom30tour>

Shape in your own image. Join our Network Research Panel today!

Fussy? Opinionated? Impossible to please? Perfect. Join 's user panel and lay it on us.

Got a little couch potato? Check out fun summer activities for kids.

oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers , not web links.

Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha! Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at Games.

Need a vacation? Get great deals to amazing places on Travel.

Moody friends. Drama queens. Your life? Nope! - their life, your story. Play Sims Stories at Games.

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MINDY I ALWAYS PUT MY WEIGHT THAT I WAS WHEN I STARTED MY PRE-SURG DIET. I LOST 8# ABOUT 2 WEEKS BEFORE SURGERY AND I HAVE LOST 34# SINCE THE SURGERY. <lgr00_00@...> wrote: Hi Mindy, I too am from Arkansas. I was banded on Aug the

1st. I have lost as of today 21 pds. I have not been at all hungry...I just got off the phase of mushy foods as stated there is a healing time. First 10 days is clear liquids, 2nd 10 days is liquids like cream soups, the 3rd 10 days is mushy type foods. I am just beginning on reg foods but I dont see a problem of continuing losing because I am still getting full with just a couple of bites. This band is prolly the best thing I could have ever bought for myself. I highly recommend it. If you would like to talk , call me anytime at 870-403-8545. DOB 8/1/07 207/186/130 And marg,, the PB is like regurgitating....lol Re: Re: Mindy Hi Mindy, You'll probably have a great many replies to your question on 's weight loss. The first number is the pre-band weight, the middle number is the

current weight, the last number is the goal weight. lost 9 pounds since banding in July. Having a stomach to heal and being on a liquid diet does that to anyone. As Bipley pointed out, most often the initial weight loss is simply fluid loss, because of diarheea. Now, if someone could enlighten me about the dreaded PB or BP, I am not sure which. I am guessing it has to do with voiding food through the esophagus. No graphic details, just a simple explanation, please. Many thanks, Margaret On 8/30/07, mindy mcfarland <mmcfarland2001> wrote: Thanks , I am already making the life style changes because I wanted to make sure I really could do it. It is just trying to lose so much weight gets over whelming but i keep telling myself i didn't gain over night so it won't come off that way either. I am really considering having it done I just worry of the cost of upkeep. How have you lost so much from 245 to 145 and never had a fill? Or do those numbers mean something else? Because I see dob is 6/27/07 just a few months ago. So please fill me in I am also thinking do this and have no money to have my extra fat and stomach removed. I have a lot to consider I just want to be healthy and thinner. Thanks Mindy 479-221-5755 Feel free to call in the evenings vanessa bobo <vjbobo2003 (DOT) com> wrote: Hi Mindy, My name is Bobo and I am from Hope, AR but I was raised in Fayettevile and Springdale until I was 12 years old. I was banded by Dr. A on 6/22/07 and it was the best investment I have ever made. I have lost 37# total (8# prior to surgery and 29# since my surgery) I have not had a fill yet and probably won't get one for a while. I have been one of the lucky ones and I have not been hungry and it has just been so easy. I get full on 1 1/2 chicken tenderloin and veggies. Before I would have probably ate 2 whole chicken breast and lots of other unhealthy things! I went to Mexico by myself and everything went great. But I would probably recommend that you take someone with you if you can. Dr. A and his entire group is wonderful and I don't think that you will regret it if you have it done. Just make sure you are ready for the committment, because the band is just a tool

and you have to make up your mind that this is what you want. Good luck in your decision and if I can help just let me know. Bobo DOB 6/22/07 pre surg 254 245/216/145 mindy mcfarland <mmcfarland2001 > wrote: Rena, I live in NW AR outside of Fayetteville. I have been worried about the procedure and up keep. Are you down to your goal weight? 200 is a lot but even afterwards have you found out anything about plastic surgery to remove the fat and the cost of that? So many questions. Please help if you can. Mindy rena brown <rena71857 (DOT) com> wrote: Mindy, What part of AR. are you from? I'm from Prescott, (near Hope)...There are several of us ladies from AR on this board...They are , , Gloria and myself... To answer your question...Your fills are free (except hospital fee of $85.00) if you can get back to Dr. A. but some like myself can't do that (air fare is higher than a fill). I go to LA to Dr. and I pay $190.00 per fill...I'm almost 1 year out and I've had 2 fills...I've lost 65 lbs...I actually lost that weight in the 1st 6 months... I don't know if anyone can tell you how many fills you'll need we are all different but if I was to guess you wouldn't need over 3 or 4 for the whole year...Now remember that is just a guess, it all depends on if the doctor gives you enough the 1st time...The 1st few times is the hardest because your doctor doesn't want to over fill

you so usually they'll add 1cc (depnding on the band size, my band will hold 4cc)...So plan for at least 4 and see where that gets you... Sorry I can't be more precise... Someone who has lost that much may can help better than I... Good luck and best wishes, Rena DOB: 9/26/06 204/139/135mindy mcfarland <mmcfarland2001 > wrote: Does anyone know how many fills and unfills to suspect. I live in Arkansas and am trying to plan for this finacially all the way around. I need to lose 200 lbs. I have read where some of you are having fills 6 weeks after surgery. Do you plan this in your airfare or at least the first couple of surgerys? Someone please let me know what you can if you have

lost this much or close. Thanks Mindy terrina bell <terrinabell > wrote: I'm having my surgery on the 20th Hope I get to meet you, and good luckrrdibell <r.dibellmchsi (DOT) com> wrote: Genia,I am scheduled for the lapband on 8/21. I am more than excited. As a nurse this is the only procedure I have considered. The lapband is completely adjustable and reversable. Bypass is not. You have fewer to no absorption problems with the lapband as you are not permanently changing the anatomy. With gastric bypass you have a larger chance for dumping (significant diarrhea and decreased absorption of essential nutrients.) They are also now

realizing it is possible for those with the bypass to stretch their pouches out and start gaining the weight back. There are several cases of people going back for "the band after" where they get the lapband even after having a bypass. From a healthcare standpoint I consider the lapband very safe with few potential complications. I have no second questions about having it done or having Dr Aceves do it. Hope this helps. Randi>> I just would like to know why you all chose lapband and not gastric bypass > and if any of you know anyone that chose gastric bybass how it worked?> I only know people in my area that have had the gastric bypass..that is why > I am asking> > Genia Everett> Peke Rescue> >

We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals.> --Immanuel Kent--> > Please don't breed or buy while shelter pets DIE! > OPT TO ADOPT!!!!> > > > > > > > ************ ********* ********* ******** Get a sneak peek of the all-new AOL at > http://discover. aol.com/memed/ aolcom30tour> Shape in your own image. Join our Network Research Panel today! Fussy? Opinionated? Impossible to please? Perfect. Join 's user panel and lay it on us. Got a little couch potato? Check out fun summer activities for kids. oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers , not web links. Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha! Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at Games. Need a vacation? Get great deals to amazing places on Travel. Moody friends. Drama queens. Your life? Nope! - their life, your story.Play Sims Stories at Games.

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