Feb 12, 2009 -- Did I Learn A Lesson - Unfill!

Feb 11, 2009

February 11, 2009 was the day I went back to NEMC  Tufts Obesity Consult Clinic for my annual check up.  Honestly I have not been back for about 2 years    We all know that story and why.  After my research, I decided to get a slight unfill, My last two fills where in 2007, my weight plateaued, acid reflux, etc. 

So, I am in the inner waiting room, waiting for the PA and the Doctor to discuss my band and unfill and I noticed on the wall, a chart for the various bands, sizes, etc.  When I was banded, there was only ONE Band.  Interesting.  The PA comes in, looks at my chart and says -- "Gee, been a long time for you."  Yeah...   I explained how I am having problem, plateaued, etc.  Her reply, "I want to do a total UNFILL now.  Who knows what shape your pouch is in?  Have you had a Upper GI?  We are scheduling one now. "     I would have loved to see the expression on my face, but my mind was saying, NO NO NO....  Regroup and let's approach this a different way.  I can eat some items, I have not been perfect, I promise to get the upper GI and will be back  in 6 week for a check up.   So, let's agree to .50 unfill.  OK.  She agreed.

We start discussing the journey of the Band, how things are constantly changing.  My biggest complaint is that their is no support groups for Banders who are about 2-3 years or further out?  I have researched, researched, researched and finally came back to OH. I mentioned that Acid Reflux and she said the band was too tight.  My reply, when I had a fill in 2007, and got Acid Reflux, the doctor said that was fine.   Well, she said -- that why it is important to come in and follow up.  That was the original thought back then, but more research showed that is not the case.  When you were banded, there was only one band -- not look (at the chart) how many bands we have.    Light Bulb Moment!

I guess it is easy to blame the system, complain there is no support groups, I am at a plateau, etc, etc.  But the truth is, I am responsible and I hold myself accountable for the decisions I make with my Band.   Learned a very valuable lesson during this visit.

Regarding the unfill, I fell great! She is right and I might need more taken out, but I feel a huge difference.  Morning coffee goes down easier, acid reflux is almost gone.  Next is to be mindful, follow the rules and listen to my Band.  I keep you posted.

"Success doesn't come to you. You go to it." Marva Collins

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