Trying to decide

Jean, you are so very correct that was vital information. I have been debating what to do and that just gave me peace of mind. Wow that is great! Funny you should mention Dr Cahalan he is the one I was interested in seeing. He did a friend of mines surgery. But she never told me there were two in there. But she was so excited to have it done I do not think she remembered. And she moved away right after it. Bummer but she keeps in touch and is over a year out and doing well. But than again she had the open. I know I am going on and on but I am just so excited by this information. Thanks again( Velda

I just wanted to tell you Good Luck to whichever you decide,it is a life saving operation...and a life giving 1!!!!It gave me a life where before I didnt have 1,and I am so looking forward now to seeing how the rest of my life turns out.......let us know how you are!! Lori A.

Lori, thanks I will keep you all updated as to what takes place in December. I can not wait. I have a husband and four children waiting for me to make some changes so that they can have a life with me. And I most importantly have myself that is waiting to live to the fullest! Velda

Velda, you will not believe how having this surgery will positively change your life. It is amazing. jean

You have no ideal, well maybe you do... LOL how bad I want to have this done. I go to Mercy's class next weekend I am not sure of the process from there, but I am praying it will be approved without delays. Thanks, Velda

The trick is to stay on top of the details, because your case will get lost in the shuffle if you don't. For example, follow up yourself on EVERYTHING. Don't depend on them. Get your primary care to write an appropriate letter for insurance right away, get your sleep study lined up right away (if you require one), etc. Just stay on top of the little details and it will all go faster. I went to the informational meeting in Oct. 04 and was having my surgery on 12/2/04, a little more than two months is all mine took. I hear they are a little slower now than they used to be, but still...STAY ON TOP of them and it will go faster. And do let your insurance company sit on it. Get the girl at Mercy to get it all submitted once you have everything ready, and then give insurance 2 weeks, and then start calling every day. jean

Thanks, for the sound advixe I will be sure to keep you informed and I will stay on them!!

Hi Velda, Best of Luck on your choice to have the surgery, mine will be in a few weeks. I chose Lap RNY because to me it was less invasive, you heal faster and there is a less risk of infection, plus afterwards you have only 5-6 very small scars as opposed to 1 big long one down your chest. Good Luck in whatever you decide though! Kenzie Gatzke

Kenzie, thanks so much the more I research the more I am going towards Mercy Cap and having the Lap RNY. And much for the same reasons you decided. But I go to both centers next week. I can not wait! I will keep you posted.