Hi Delaware People!

This is my first time posting messages on this site. Below is my original post to the Main Page. I've already met Cricket in IN whose big day is the same as mine! Anybody out there who'll also be at St. Francis on July 22? Maybe we'll meet! Or at least groan (or is that cheer) at the same time. Hi, I'm new to this 12 days and counting down to surgery! It suddenly struck me that this is for real! Suddenly it's not something I've thought about or talked about or prayed about, it's really going to happen! I've been coming to this site and reading the posts and they've been so helpful, so I joined myself. I want to say thank you to all you "strangers" who have helped me in this decision and process. I've learned so much. I feel almost guilty because I have not had any problems at all getting clearances or approvals. Everyone, even Dr. Peters, told me it would take months and months to get everything and here I am scheduled for July 22 and my first visit was only on May 2! But I guess instead of feeling guilty I should encourage everybody that if you are determined, it can be done! I hope I'll make some friends here. If you have any suggestions on how to use all the features of this site, please share.

HELLO ANN WELCOME TO OUR LITTLE BOARD AND WE WELCOME YOU WITH OPEN ARMS.IT IS ALWAYS A PLEASURE TO SEE NEWBIES COME IN AND POST.I WISH YOU ALL THE BEST AND WE ALL ARE HERE FOR YOU AND JUST POST AND HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR JUST TO SAY HI OR TO VENT OR WHATEVER FEEL FREE PLEASE.I NEED ALL THE HELP BEHIND ME TO KEEP THIS LITTLE BOARD A HOPPING,LOL.IF YOU NEED ANYTHING JUST GIVE ME OR ALL OF US A YELL OK.SO GLAD TO HAVE YOU ON HERE.YES PLEASE ENCOURAGE THOSE ARE STILL WAITING FOR CLEARENCE OK THANK YOU SWEETIE.TAKE CARE YOUR FRIEND BONNIE

Ann. Welcome. WOW, it took me a little more than a year from the 1st day that I made my appointment until the day of surgery. What's your secret? Or do you know someone?? LOL I didn't mind, it gave me the chance to do the detective work I needed to do to make my decision. I was coming to support group meetings as soon as I got wind of them from the Dr's office. I just celebrated my 2nd year anniversary of PMRI's meetings in June. Don't feel guilty, feel blessed. Try to remain focused & positive and do what the Dr's say and know that you will be in good hands. All you need for the hospital is Lip balm. Your lips get pretty dry after surgery. The gown and slippers will be provided. Oh you might want your own comb, brush, toothpaste and toothbrush. But other than that you won't want to read. Remember to give someone the phone numbers of those that care about you. They can let them and us know how you made out. If you have any questions, let me know, I'll be glad to listen and answer what questions I can. Or just post questions, everyone is truely helpful and does care. ((HUGS)) Elissa

Hi Elissa, No secret, just determination -- and yes, I guess I do know someone -- the Lord. I really believe He's in this with me, I've been praying for His help with my weight problems for years, and He has taught me that all things happen in His time. I did my homework during the year I was thinking about getting WLS. I decided in late April and when I called CHRIAS -- expecting to wait 2 months just to get an appt. -- they said can you come in on May 2? I said Oh Yeah! I went in wanting lapband but planning on RNY 'cause they told me "Blue Cross does not cover lapband." Then a week later I called and told them I don't care -- I'd rather have lapband -- send in a pre-d and we'll get the appeal process going. To my surprise and delight they told me that BCBSD was just beginning to cover lapband. I made another appt. to change my procedure. Dr. Peters said it would still probably take several months because of all the pre-op clearances and stuff. I said can't we do it sooner? He laughed and said that if I could get it all done -- he'd do the surgery whenever! Boy, was I a demon on the phone! Every office a talked to was so helpful -- I think they caught my excitement! All my clearances are done, I had my last pre-op meeting with Dr. Peters last Thursday and now it's just hurry up and wait! Ann

Congratulations Ann! So glad you decided to join in and post! Welcome to our little home away from home! How wonderful to be in "hurry up and wait land" already! I had another friend who just breezed through the whole process. I rejoice with both of you! BTW - glad you decided to ditch the guilt and opt for the encouragement to others instead! You asked for advice with features of this site? Are you aware there is a lap band forum? Thought this may be something that may interest you if you did not already know about it http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/surgtype-forums/LapBand/posts.html At any rate, congrats on your soon to be here surgery date and for standing strong in getting the procedure that you deemed best for you!!! BTW - It is so good to hear that BCBS is now starting to allow bands!!! Hugs, Tammy

New name, same sweetie!

Hi Ann Welcome to the boards and good luck with your journey. Keep posting. Dianne