re: Update

Well, I went to Philly today for my consult with an orthopedic Dr. His name is Dr. Jess Lonner at 1:30pm. I was lucky & got a parking place less than 100 yds from the front door of the Pennsylvania Hospital at 800 Spruce St. I am soooo impressed with the whole process. I got to the desk and was greeted by not one but two receptionist's. The other two co-ordinators were at lunch. This is a huge office with 6 Dr.'s. I gave my name and was asked for my medical ID card. Then I was given a few sheets to fill out my information and history on. Within 5 minutes of handing the paperwork back I was called to meet with the PA 1st then Dr. Lonner. Both had an awesome friendly, professional manner. I had my xray's in hand which the nurse promptly put on the lighted glass so they could look at them. He took one look and asked "How long had I experienced pain in my knees." I said for over 10 yrs. The arthritis is definetly advanced and I will be having both knees replaced at the same time. The Dr. advised against having cortesone. He said the exercises and the pool will do better for me than having the shot. I explained about my WLS and how I'd lost weight, my diet, my exercise program. He was very impressed and explained about the surgery pre & post op. I am a candidate, thank you God, for a new procedure, less evasive and minimal re-coup time. I scheduled all the appointments before I'd left his office. Done and out before my 2 hour meter ran out. Gotta see the cardiologist there at Penn, pre-admin testing and gonna give blood for myself twice. All this was done and I was on the road home by 2:30. What precision and efficiency. WOW impressive. So looks like it'll be in January 06. Sooner the better. He would have done it in December if I was willing. I'd rather wait til after the Holidays, since I accepted a job at Longwood Gardens for the Holiday Season. In the meantime I'll trudge right along and keep exercising. The better shape I'm in the easier it'll be. ((HUGS)) Elissa

It is a very nice hospital. The support group they have is right out where the receptionist is in the auditorium there. If you were going to be down there the end of the month you could have gone to their support group! Its the last Tuesday of every month. I am glad to hear there is hope for your knees. I hate to hear more surgery is needed but if it makes things better and less invasive I would do it too! I have to say PA Hospital Drs have been really good to me. You should have a good experience there. If you need anything just holler. Take care and don't over do it! Hugs and Fleece Blankets Debbie

Elissa, Wishing you the best of luck. I'll be praying for you. Congrats on the job, I love Longwood Gardens. Deb

My boss had both his knees replaced up at Penn about 10 years ago. He's doing great. The technology is so much better know than even back then. You will do just fine. Don't worry. I'm glad that you can be helped.

OK I meant now not Know! I can't spell!!!

Elissa, How wonderful that you won't be in pain anymore after the surgery!! I know people who have had the less invassive surgery and they said even the pain from surgery wasn't as bad as the constant pain before!! You go gettum, girl! See you tomorrow at the meeting Love, Kathleen

Elissa, Glad that they have an answer for you. There is no question that you have done your part, now let medical science and God do His part. We are so blessed to live where we live and to be in this generation where the technology is continually advancing. Please know that we will all be here for you as you go through this and the recovery period as well. Maybe after a few weeks we can all come visit you and have our meeting at your house again. It was the best! Only this time let us all spoil you. God bless,and hope to see you tomorrow night Mama

Hi Elissa: Cheers for no more pain! Wishing you the best of luck. Kim S

Elissa, All good thoughts are coming your way. I know the waiting is hard, but you will get to enjoy the holidays and then before you know it you will be able to use those knees again. You worked so hard to accomplish all that you have done...this will be a piece of cake (low fat and sugarfree, Of Course) We will all be praying for you. ((Hugs)) Ellen

Elissa, I am glad to hear you are going to be getting relief. The surgery should be much easier post-WLS since you have dedicated yourself to getting fit and healthy. Stay strong. You are an inspiration to all of us. Let me know if I can help out. Your bud, Rob