Update

Well it looks like I'm not the "perpetual" pre-op anymore. Its taken almost 2 years, but Surgery is a GO!!!!!! Last May I got a job with the state and as of July 1, 2007 I went onto the state's health plan which covers WLS 100% with NO conditions or exclusions. Also in July my pcp decided he wanted me to use Dr. Aranow,  so on Oct 1 (2 days before my b-day) I saw Dr. Aranow and officially became his patient. Now I'm working on my list of tests he wants done. I want my surgery in March because I need to wait to accumulate enough sick time and also I work for the DOT and I don't want to miss any winter overtime. I have also started seeing Terria Linn to get my head ready for the new me. I've updated my blog and will continue to do so. In case anyone is interested how I got the job with the state all the details are there too. --==Rich==--

Rich~ Sounds like you have a plan, and have all along, to cover all your bases. Bravo... All this preparation will carry you far along the path of your journey to renewed health. I also saw a "foodie" therapist prior to surgery, as you are. I also saw her individually (in addition to support groups) weekly for the first year. I do believe it helped give me a better understanding of how I could make the necessary changes within to live a freer life (without using food as a soothing tool) and not sabotage my hard work. It has given me the tools I need One thing she taught me was this. If you fail to plan... you plan to fail. Makes sense in all endeavors, whatever they be. I wish you all the best. Towanda

Towanda, thank you for the above kind words and encourgement, as well as the  pm you sent me. I feel as if all the hardships along the way have been worth it. 2008 will be a good year! --==Rich==--

That's right Rich! Look for the mini miracles along the way! They are there every day for each of us. If... we slow down enough to notice. Great movie to watch... Peaceful Warrior. Get ready world!  ... HERE COMES THE NEW AND IMPROVED RICH! 

Congrats, Rich!  You may find the 2 year wait was a blessing. I began looking into wls almost 4 years ago, began the process with another surgeon, decided it wasn't the right time, and then started all over early this year with Dr. Aranow.  I had the surgery 10/5 and all went beautifully.  While I'm impatient about how quickly I am losing, I realize now that the 4 year wait may have been the best thing.  I ended up w/Dr. A as my surgeon, which I believe was a blessing, and I think the prolonged preparation really made me appreciate even more that being given this tool was really a gift.  I wish you all the best and hope that your wls experience goes just as smoothly as mine did.  Laurie

Laurie, one thing this has taught me is PATIENCE! As long as I have surgery before memorial day is fine by me. Best of luck on your journey! --==Rich==--

 

Good for you Rich!!  It is always worth the wait. Especially when it turns out right. I know I looked at a few doctors before I chose Dr. Barba, For me he was the one. He was worth the wait. Although I didn't have to wait  too long. It only took me 7 months to get everything done. So I am glad for you. Good Luck! Sarah

Sarah, Is'nt it amazing when things are right, they are RIGHT! Good luck to you also, --==Rich==--

Congratulations on taking the first few steps towards the new you! It will be well worth it and I've heard many good things about Dr. Aranow, even though for me I choose Dr. Barba!   CONGRATULATIONS AGAIN!   Keep us posted!

Steppin now, runnin later! Thanks!