Newbie here

Kirstymomma
on 1/29/09 11:47 am - Aldergrove, Canada
Hi there!

My name is Kirsty, and I am a 33 year old mommy of 2 little ones. I had Gestational diabetes with my second child, and after my pregnancy it developed into type 2 diabetes. I have heard the Gastric Bypass surgery can be sucessful in the treatment of type 2.

I need to get a referral of course, and what sort of things am I looking at now to start the process. Also, does B.C medical cover it, especially since I am diabetic? Forgive my ignorance on this matter.

Looking forward to getting to know some of you.

~Kirsty~
suzanneb
on 1/29/09 1:03 pm - North Vancouver, Canada
Hi Kirsty

Gastric bypass Roux-en-y is covered by MSP, the lapban is not covered by MSP, there are many different types of surgeries these days.  Have you joined a weight loss surgery support group they are your best source for information. 

Have you read the Weight Loss surgery for Dummies book this is a good one to start with.

Depending on what you want there are three main surgeons in Victoria.  This is not done in Vancouver area.

Dr. Amson who has the longest wait time, usually take up to 2 years to see him, and then 2- 4 year wait for surgery, there is another surgeon working with him on straight forward cases Dr. Tang.

Surgeon I am having surgery with is Dr. Rusnak I seen him 4 months ago and my surgery should be happening some time soon.

They will ask you to keep a food journal/exercise journal.

There are several tests they will want you to have with their group of specialists, overnight oximetry, gastro scope, see a respirologist, encrendonologist, the nutrionist in Victoria.

When you do get a refferal to see one of them you can ask the receptionist with whichever surgeon you go with to to mail you a TAP form, travel assistance program form, and this will get your ferry ride to and back covered for you and your vechicle.  If you need a hotel over there ask fr medical rates.
Barb S.
on 1/30/09 11:59 am - New Westminster, BC, Canada
Hi,
If you would like to chat feel free to drop me an email and I can call you and share my experience. [email protected].

It is a long road but one well worth travelling. You need to remember that Bariatric Surgery is not a cure for anything. It is a tool that when used properly can but may not resolve many health issues. The bottom line is that a healthy weight obviously will lead to better overall health but please, please, please do not think of this surgery or any surgery for weight loss as a cure.

You have lots of reading to do here and on other sites. There are many who will help you find the information you need and want to make an informed decision. Ask questions and then when you think you know what you want to do ask even more!

Good Luck and feel free to contact me.

Barb
Post Op RNY
June 17, 2008
Viriginia Mason, Seattle
SW 335
CW 217
GW  160ish

Healthier & Happier!
tsegal
on 1/30/09 4:19 pm - Canada
Hi Kirsty
The VSG surgery also resolves most cases of diabetes. It is not done as often here but Dr. Amson does do it. I went to Mexico and paid for it myself. BC medicare will pay to have it done here or out  of country but it is a long song and dance and I was unable to have the VSG done this way. There is a hospital in Seattle that they have a deal with but the surgeon there does not do this procedure yet- he is just getting trained in the next year. I wanted a Dr. who was very experienced so headed south of two borders...Good luck with your research-try looking up articles on  pubmed or the mayo clinic.
I would be happy to answer any questions you might have too- you can pm me for my phone #
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