Anyone going to the Seminar at CHOMP on Oct. 2nd???

Glad to see some local folks posting.  My story is similar.  Started with Mark Vierra, then insurance made me switch hospitals and was referred to Dr Higa in Fresno.  I'd been to one of the support group meetings at CHOMP but forgot the date after starting over with Dr Higa.  Thanks so much for mentioning the meeting on the 9th.   Maybe see you there.
Carmel Valley Linda

I have no experience with CHOMPs but wanted to stop in and say good luck.  I am planning to move to Pacific Grove next year. 

Lola

Well--- keep in touch!!! CHOMP is the local hospital--- Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula----- both Deanna and Jaime work there!  AND there is a really good support group there--- facilitated by a nutritionist from the hospital.  REALLY nice supportive group of people there.  Please also PM me---I'll give you my contact info....
Take care and happy moving!
~Lori

Hello, I went to the CHOMP informational meeting when I was looking into WLS. I also went to the Laproscopic Associates of San Francisco informational session that they hold in Monterey also as I wanted to compare.  The CHOMP meeting was very informational and he did a good presentation. The down side was that he did not cover the 2 other wls that are available. When I asked about them he really down played them. Also, the insurance that I currently have does not cover wls at CHOMP. He did say he would refer me to an associate in the valley and would do my follow-up as I live in the area.  I then went to the other informational session, there definitely was not the crowd as at the CHOMP on but we got a lot of one-on-one questions. He covered all the wls (which they do)  VSG, DS, Lapband, RNY.  After lots of research on all types I chose the DS and went with LapSF.  Dr. Cirangle is a very skilled surgeon and the nurses at Good Sam's said they thought he was one of the best in their opion. Fewer readmits, surgery skills, etc.  I am a nurse so sometimes I can get the "inside scoop" on things from other healthcare professionals.  I am currently at 7 weeks out and have had no problems.  As far as advice, read the reasearch articles out there on the different wls, their short & long term results, and make an educated decision.  Good luck on your journey.