Help me become a loser :-)

I need help CT I don't know where I should start I need to start somewhere. First of all I followed Dr. Bell protcol I went to the psyc. evaluation and hit a dead end. He told me that he was putting me on hold until I see the nutritionist. He felt wasn't ready does anyone of Dr. Bells patient have any suggestion, advice, or inspirational words it would help. My mind is made up I am just fustrated I did my research and I am ready for the surgey. I just need starting somewhere. My pcp telling it is not a good idea to get the surgery but he is not carrying this weight or does he have to deal with the pain everyday that I am in

Hi Tasha, I feel your disappointment. I have a couple of suggestions. First, see a new rheumatologist. I have RA also, and my rheumatologist was the one who suggested the surgery to me! If you can, find a new one. I had three before I found the one I have now who is a rheumatologist and an internist. She is extremely supported and I have the utmost respect for her. Secondly, go to someone who specializes in obesity counseling for your psych evaluation. I used Yale (Dr. Bell's office recommended them). There is also a clinical social worker by the name of Mark Gaynor, he is on Orange Street in New Haven, and is very very good. He had this surgery himself, so he would be more compassionate to your needs. Did they tell you why they felt you didn't qualify for the surgery? Good luck, and keep on pluggin' JA

Tasha, Being one of Dr. Bell's patients ( I have not met him yet, but have done all the protocol for him). You have to do the psych eval, see a nutritionist, and have a letter from your PCP. If I were you, I would go through Dr. Bell's suggestions as to who to use for psych eval and go to the Yale Nutrition Center. Then find a PCP who will support you in your quest. Ask any of the people on this board for one near you. Pam