[Jo Kittibuck]

Hey, I'm Jo. I've been on 3Chicks a little while now.

I'm writing a college essay, and was wondering if anyone would be willing to PM me and talk about your surgery stories? I'd especially like to hear anyone who has any regrets, either emotional or healthwise. My birthmother had a gastric bypass a few years ago, and she's really suffering medically from it. Myself, I had a lap-band surgery that ended up doing nothing except causing me pain. I'm certain there are others out there who've had similar experiences. Please, don't be shy?

[jillybean720]

I'm just over a year-and-a-half out from my surgery, but I honestly have no complaints so far. Sometimes, I can eat quite a bit of food now, which makes me a bit nervous about maintaining or not being able to lose a bit more, but my "tool" got me down more than 100 pounds, and by staying very educated and proactive about my labs and supplements, I haven't had any medical issues to date (I know there are other possible medical issues, but those caused by vitamin/mineral deficiencies are typically most common).

Don't feel alone about your band. The band does more harm than good for many people - I've read some horrific stories from folks with bands. When they do work, that's great, but unfortunately, a band NOT working is more common than one that does, and even the manufacturer's own product manuals state that it is not intended to be a lifetime product - I believe many end up having to be removed or replaced in less than 10 years (might actually be 7). If it didn't work for anybody, they wouldn't still do it, but I think they need to have a much better screening process in place for folks to determine which procedure is best for them and to ensure people REALLY know ALL of the potential risks.

[jiffypop]

Jo -

While we're sympathetic with your need for information for your class, I'm not sure that this post is the best way to do that. First of all, as Jennifer's sticky note [If you haven't had surgery, please read this] states, WE ARE NOT RESEARCH SUBJECT - if you have questions about why we did it, please read the forum.

BUT, before you decide to use something you read here as part of your assignment PLEASE ASK ONE OF THE MODERATORS [LEENIE, ME, SUZANNE 3FC OR JENNIFER 3FC] for permission. AND ASK THE PERSON WHO POSTED IT AS WELL.

you're looking for very personal information, and some folks may be very uncomfortable knowing that it's being used.

Please realize that this particular forum ENCOURAGES posts from people who've had problems with their surgeries. Not only do they need support, but their experiences are also extremely valuable and need to be discussed. You and your mother have certainly been through the wringer on these surgeries.

For these reasons, I'm going to close this thread. HOWEVER, members who wish to PM you to share their experiences will still be permitted to do so.

I hope you understand that we need to balance our need for at least a small degree of privacy and anonymity against your need for information in this case.