Wow, that sounds really miserable!  Did you find out if there was  a leak - or what happened to all the previous saline?  Hope this fill is good for you, so you don't have to go back any time soon.  Jean B.

Wow Vicki.  That's a tough one.  But you need 50-60 grams or protein a day and that's not going to happen with that diet.  He sounds like one of the docs up in Duluth, only he says a little more protein.  That sounds more like RNY numbers, calorie-wise.  It's so hard, 'cuz there is so much conflicting info and everyone always finished with....but, listen to your doctor.  I'd listen to the nutritionist though and have her try to talk with the doctor. You're not supposed to have to starve yourself with the band.  Good luck!  Jean B.

Welcome to the board, Toni.  And congratulations on getting your date!  That's really not all that far away.  You'll be on your way before you know it.  Be sure to ask any questions you might have.  There's lots of good people here to answer them for you.  Jean B.

Good Morning!  It's just plain cold here, but thankfully, we haven't gotten the ice storms that have hit so many.  We did get a few inches of snow, so it actually looks like winter around here now.  Second quarter is over today and my 18 year-old son really put forth an effort and worked his butt off.  I spent a lot of time working with him, but I'm happy to say he will pass all of his classes and actually end up with some pretty good grades.  One more semester to go.....and then who knows what.  Day at a time - it's the only way to live.  I'm meeting my cousin for lunch today.  We haven't seen each other in over a year, so I'm wondering what the reaction will be.  She knows I had surgery and was very supportive of my decision, but I'm looking for some positive reinforcement that I'm making progress.  I've lost more than 50 lbs. since the last time I saw her.  I go for my 2nd fill next week and hopefully will get more help from the band.  I'd love to say that I feel satisfied with a small amount of food - 'cuz I'm not!!  Glad to hear you're feeling better.  Have a good day! Jean B.

Thanks for the chuckle! Jean B.

Congratulations!  Hope you get a date soon and all goes well.  I'd love to be there for you in Paris- unfortunately it doesn't fit into my schedule or budget!!  Darn.  It might be nice to have someone with you though.  Jean B.

Karen, I hope everything turns out ok for your mom.  Tell her she has to take care of herself right now and let the other things go.  Keep us posted. Jean B.

You know its cold when your kitty cat who loves to be outdoors, sticks her nose out the door and turns around and runs back into a corner.  I think it got up to 18 degrees today which was much better than yesterday at 9 degrees plus wind.  It's going below zero tonight, they say and will be cold like this for 4-5 days.  Yuk!  We were spoiled here too and reality ha**** hard.  Jean B.

Hope all goes well, Lori.  Let us know how you're doing when you can.  Jean B.

Hey Liz,     That sounds like a blast!    Here in Minnesota, we just have cold.  And they are still warning people to stay off the lakes - though the ice fishermen don't listen anyway.  Isn't that wonderful that you have the energy to do such a fun thing with your family  Enjoy your success!  That's what this is all about.  Jean B.?

Yup, I agree with the others.  About the 6th or 7th week post-op I bumped my calories up to 1300-1400 calories a day and the scale started moving down again.  I've lost about 25 lbs. now since day of surgery in October.  (I need to change my ticker!)  I need to up my exercise - you are doing great in that area.  You must be losing inches, aren't you?  That is another indicator of success - it's not just the scale.  Good luck.  Jean B.

Hey Christine,  If you figure out how to skip it, let me know.  I got carbon checks a long time ago..... Jean B.

Hi Mandy  I had my first fill a couple of weeks ago.  It only took a few minutes and I went right back to work.  I laid down and did a little stomach crunch so that he could mark the spot of the port. He did numb the area first which he said might burn - but didn't.  He got the needle in on the first try and within a minute or less, he was done.  I still waiting for him to start!  I know other people have had different experiences - hope yours goes as well as mine did!  Jean B.