VSG/Dr. Jossart/Support Groups Gilroy

I'm new to the WLS thing.  I've been investigating it for about a year now and have decided to do the VSG.  I have viewed many posts about surgeons and have decided on Dr. Jossart in SF.  I have scheduled a consult with him for October.  I'm looking at hopefully having the surgery in December or January.  But...I do have a couple of questions that I've been having trouble finding answers to.

1.  I am a self-pay patient and I've seen the VSG priced anywhere from $11,000 to $20,000.  Has anyone done it as a self-pay and, if so, how much was it?

2.  I live in Hollister and am looking for a support group close by, preferably here or in Gilroy.  Does anyone know if any local support groups?

3.  Lastly, I've only heard WONDERFUL things about Dr. Jossart.  Has anyone had a negative encounter with him?

I'd love to get some answers!  Thanks to all.

LapSF charges around 17,000 to 17,500 for the VSG. I'm paying just under 17,000 but I had my nutritional consult and psych eval done elsewhere. (Not on purpose, it just turned out that way.)

They have support groups all over. You can look on their web site to see if there is one near you. I go to the San Jose one and can't remember if there is one near Gilroy.

I've never met Dr. J. I'm getting my sleeve done by Dr. C.