First Steps

Hi Everyone. I've learned so much on this site--it's been a big part of my research of WLS. I was expecting to go with the Hartford Hospital program but found out that it was not yet a "Center of Excellence" and since I'm on Medicare, that was a must. I'm going to Dr. Barba at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford for the lap-band. Went to his seminar last week and now I'm beginning to go through all the preliminary testing, etc. Hoping for a surgery date in early spring! I'll be doing less lurking and more participating from now on. Thanks again for all the info!

Hi, I will be banded on Feb. 11 at St. Raphael's Hospital in New Haven.  I will have my endoscopy and pre-op testing this Friday, Jan. 18.  I will begin my 1000 calorie diet on Jan. 28.  I have one last meeting with the nutritionist and psychologist and I am on my way.  You will be on your way soon! Good luck with all your tests!  Tina

Hi Ladies...good for you!!  I was scared to death to go for the endoscopy!!   Let me tell you, the worst thing was the IV...and they are asking you so many questions and distracting you so much that you don't even notice it going in....you will get a little coctail and you will feel sleepy...next thing you know you are going back to your cubby being told to get dressed...its over.....so don't fret over that part....and good luck to you both!!

Thanks. Yes, I agree that none of the tests are really that bad. I've had many gastro tests in my life (top to bottom!). In fact, I'm hoping that the results of some of the recent testing I've had in my regular medical care can be used so I don't have to repeat cardiac and pulmonary. I've already had sleep study and have used a CPAP for six years. Had a recent EKG and echocardiagram, too. Wondering if I'll be able to make my nutritionist's appointment on Monday because of the big snow storm we're expecting -- 12 to 14" where I live. Probably won't be able to get out of my driveway for a while!

HI Lakelady. We have different doctors but I know that I was able to use the results from the sleep study I had already done and didn't have to do another. That was such a relief because I don't sleep good with all those little wires.

Hi Lakelady, I have the lap band and I love it.  All the testing just was so time consuming when I was anxious to have my surgery.  But it is necessary and none of the tests were really that big of a deal.  I hope you get your surgery date when you want it. Good Luck And to my friend Tina P. - So happy you will soon be joining me on the loser's bench.  You will feel such freedom when you can do anything you want to do and the weight will no longer prevent you from being as active and pain free as you want to be.  Looking forward to our being able to meet someday. Bev

Congratulations and best of luck to both of you! We're keeping a seat reserved for you on the losers side :)

Good luck on your journey!