9/2/2002- this is my 4-month update (down 54 lbs) and doing fantastic....this is my 1st update but I really must say, I had no, NO surgerical problems. Left the hospital feeling well. My Surgeon Dr. Wongsa was EXcellent surgeon..however he has questionalble bedside manner. Don't want to be too negative because his skills are the best. delete..delete...delete...I won't go there because I would highly recommend him. Especially since I'm so well...and I'm a big girl now and can reject/refuse/and decide for myself...especially now that "I'm feeling better about myself"...and don't have to be so sensitive about "how I got this way?" can focus more on my success and recover. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel although it's probably 6-8 months out...but the weight loss has been slow per my Dr. (3lbs /wk) but very consistant. MUST SAY...I'm very surprised(research/research/research) at my eating limitations...still limited to only 2-3 bites...NO beef yet...soup, salads, home cooked chicken-limited, beans ok. That's my update..blessed and highly favored. Nell