Good and bad day

Well, yesterday I went to St Rapheal's for my pre-op work up and had my endoscopy. It really wasn't that bad, but I personally had a bad experience. Since my surgery date was moved up, so was everything else, and I stll have not met with Dr Valin. He did the endoscopy yesterday (this was the first time I ever saw him). NO ONE introduced themselves or let me know what their duties were (dr, nurse etc). They started my IV, wheeled me into the other room and put the BP cuff and heart monitor leads on. Dr Valin sprayed my throat and told me to lay down on my left side. Next thing I remember I felt like I was choking and heard people telling me to calm down. Then I woke up crying in the recovery area. Although it was a simple procedure, I guess I was scared because I didn't know what the heck was going on and no one explained anything!! When I got out to my car there was 2 voice mails from Dr Valins, one asking if I could do my endoscopy early (I did go early since I had nothing else to do, not knowing they wanted me to). The second was saying that the case manager from Cigna called and the surgery was approved, and had finally given an authorization number. Although I pretty much knew it would be OK, I feel so much better knowing it is official. My last step is finally meeting with Dr Valin (Thursday). Then I will be having surgery next Tuesday (9/28). I cannot wait. I don't have anything ready, so this will be a very crazy weekend!!! If anyone can give me suggestions what to have when I get home so I make sure I have it, I would appreciate it greatly. Thanks, Carmen

I am sorry you had such a bad experience. I cannot believe that the doc didn't even introduce himself to you or that none of the nurses explained the procedure. Congrats on your surgery approval Joanie

I am sorry noone did not introduce themselves or explain what they will do with this procedure. I do not blame you for being upset or afraid but THE GOOD NEW THAT YOUR INSURANCE APPROVED!!!!!! Kathy K

Thanks Kathy, I was more scared afterward, just because I didn't know what happened, but posting and venting seems to help alot! 6 days till surgery now! Carmen

Thanks Joanie, I can't wait until next week! Carmen

Carmen, I'm sorry you had a bad experience. They should have explained the procedure to you and Dr. Valin should of intorduced himself. That honestly does not sound like him at all. I'm sure when you meet with him on Thursday, you'll feel more comfortable with him. I would chose him again, and his wife Deb is great. (As well as the whole office staff). Holy Cow, next Tues. is quick. I would make sure you have sippy cups and baby spoons. I'm happy to put some in the mail to you if you need them. I have tons leftover, but they were a big help. I'll be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers as your big day approaches. Please email me if you have any questions. Maggie

Maggie, I have heard so many good things about him, or I would not have gone this far.... I'm sure after I meet with him tomorrow I will feel much better with my decision. Deb and everyone in the office are great, and I'm sure he is too! I do have a few baby spoons, but no sippy cups. If you have extras that would be great. Either you could mail them, or I could come pick them up, you can't be too far away. Thanks for your support, Carmen

I'm sorry to hear about your bad experience. I have my endoscopy coming up soon - I'm going today for a preendoscopy meeting so I can meet the doctor and they tell me what to expect. If you don't mind me asking, how long did it take for you to recover from the drugs? Were you able to drive yourself home or did you have someone there for you. I'm just wondering if I'll have to take an entire day off from work or not and have my hubby with me. Thanks, Tammy

I am sure the good phone call made the rest of the day worth it. Congrats! Can't wait to hear! Phyllis