This is all so overwhelming..

Hello all, I have been lurking for quite some time and I have finally decided to quit lurking and join in the group. I just recently moved to the Atlanta area so I am hoping to make some freinds. I have the same old story I am sure everyone has had before: I have struggled all my life with my weight, I have tried RX diets pills, OTC diets pills, nuitra system, jenny craig, WW and all of the horrid diets you could imagine and yet I struggle. I have over 150lbs to loose and I am so unhealthy. I started researching WLS about 1 1/2 yrs ago and feel that I have researched it enough to take the next step and talk to a Dr about it. Here is the overwhelming part talking to the Dr I get so overwhelmed just trying to figure out where to begin. Has anyone been through this before? If so, how did you get past it? Thank you for any and all help you can give me. Jeri

Hi Jeri... Welcome to the "board". Yep, your story sounds familiar to about a bazillion of us. I doubt you're surprised! Ha! It took me 2 years of research, a year of watching a g/f of mine go through surgery, etc.; I interviewed 3 surgeons, went to a workshop and not until I had the office visit with the 3rd surgeon was I convinced in my heart that the surgery was my only choice....the right choice, for a better life. Good luck as you continue to work toward your decision.

jot down some thoughts of what you want to say to your doc and take that paper with you. I found my doctor was very supportive!

Hi, Jeri! I have always been afraid to approach my doctor. Here's what I did. First I called my insurance to find out whether or not the surgery was covered. I asked for surgeons' names and researched them. I attended a seminar and received exact information about the documentation that I would need. Within a week, I made an appointment with my PCP. They always ask for the nature of my visit, so, up front, I stated that I wanted weight loss surgery. That part was even scary to me. I took my weight loss history with me and a form listing all of the requirements for surgery (obtained at seminar). Dr. Bakshi had my history, so she well knew my "yoyoing" efforts at dieting. She was extremely supportive. Had she not been, I would have changed doctors...I really wanted the surgery. She knew that BCBS would require six months of efforts with new meds, and started me on one that day after talking to another of my doctors to offset drug interactions. After that first visit, when I knew she was "on my side," I felt such relief. Make those calls, Jeri! We're here for you! Hugs, Becky

OF COURSE we've all been there! I knew my PCP would be behind me. He knew my familys situation (lost both parents the same year - )right before my surgery) and knew I was finally serious about all of it! He was behind me 150%. The hardest part is taking the first step (that and the Barium test you have to take...YUK! ) We're here for you.....feel free to ask as many questions as you wish! Remember the only dumb question is the one you don't ask! Welcome to our little family!

Hi - there is a ton of information on this site and others. The only thing that I regret is waiting so long to have the surgery. I, like you, researched it forever and then approached my doctor about it. She was really great. The surgeon that I used is Dr. Hart in Suwannee - he was great. I'll be glad to answer any questions I can...just email me whenever. Good luck on making a decision! Laura

Thank you everyone for all the encouragement. I have made my plans and will be sticking with them. First thing Monday morning (after the holiday) I will call my insurance company and make sure there are no exclusions and what their policies are. Then I will take the next step and make my inital call the the Dr and of course going to the Seminar on Jan 15th. I really appreciate the support, being new to the area and not having anyone outside of my husband and kids here, sometimes I forget there is other areas of support. I just have to seek it. Thank you again.. I will keep ya'll posted.. Jeri

Hi Jeri, I don't think I can add anymore than the great advice you have been given, and baased on your last post, sounds like you are on the right track. I just wanted to pop in and say hello and wish you all the best. Tami