New, looking for info on UIHC docs and others in Cedar Rapids area

Hi. I'm new to this group and in the very early stages of researching and considering one of these surgeries.  It's great to find this site - thank you in advance for allowing me to participate and for any info and assistance you can provide!  And congratulations to all who have had successful surgeries and are doing so very well with your weight loss!  What a great inspiration you are!

I notice on surgeon testimonials that there aren't very many recent ones.  I'm wondering if anyone has recently gone to UIHC and how that experience was.  Also, whether there are an docs in the Cedar Rapids area who are experienced in the gastric bypass surgery (lap) and whether anyone has used them?  Finally, there is a lot of great stuff out there re. Dr. Glass**** (if I'm getting that spelling correct) in Cedar Falls.  With me being in Cedar Rapids, how much time would I need to spend in CF to go through this proceess with him?  I'm concerned about taking too much time off work due to the driving distance.  Any input and advice would be very much appreciated! 

I have one other question, which I'm not even sure how to ask.  I see a variety of statistics on mortality rates associated with these procedures, ranging from  1/2 to 2+%.  But I don't hear many stories about people dying during or as a result of this surgery.  I have three young kids and can't help but wonder if the risk of taking their mother away forever is worth the benefit of having her healthier at this stage in their lives.  I'll appreciate any perspective on this tough question. 

Thanks so much!

I am from CR too, there are no doc's in CR. I went up to Cedar Falls for my psych apt, my Nut apt and my consultation. I think I spent a total of about 8 hours give or take including drive time.The only extra trip I had to make was my Psych apt!  My appointments didnt take very long due to the fact that I was already well informed on what post op was like. I know that Dr G likes people to stay in Cedar Falls for a week after surgery, since we are more than an hour away.
I have heard good things from UIHC and have thought about checking out their program as well. I really like everyone up at Dr G's office tho they are great to work with.
Good luck on your journey!
Dawn

thanks so much!  I have heard excellent things about Dr. G and plan to attend one of his informational seminars this coming Tue PM.  My primary physician also recommended him.  All roads seem to be pointing to Cedar Falls! My concern was the distance if there were many appointments.  I really appreciate you sharing your experience, and am glad to hear that the time in CF can be fairly minimal!  
Two more question, if you don't mind my asking -- do you have any regrets about having the surgery?  And do you attend a support group and/or know if there is one in the CR area? 
Thanks again!! 

I am still pre-op just got done with my 6 month dr supervized diet, I have to send my paperwork up there so they can submit it, I am just waiting to save up the money for my deductible and yearly out of pocket maximum. I am not sure that there is a support group around here I know they have one up in CF. Its once a month around 7 PM.

thanks again!  and good luck with your surgery!!

The Bariattic Surgery Center at Genesis in Davenport is also an excellent facility.  I am 4 months post-op and live 80 miles away.  They grouped all my appointments.  I have a friend who had her surgery in Cedar Falls and was quite pleased.  For me...the decision had to do with my comfort level with the surgeon and his appoach.  Dr. Christopherson is excellent.  You can read my review on my profile.  Good luck and may your journey be all you desire and more.
Blessings,

Thank you!  and congratulations on your successful surgery!  looks like you are doing GREAT!!!

I saw a bariatric support group in the penny saver today... I didnt grab the number but it is in the support groups section

Hi - I went to U of I Hospitals and Clinics.  I had Dr. Jamaal.  I was very pleased with the doctor and the hospital/clinic.  I live about 2.5 hours away and I have had no regrets with my decision.  I don't know the actual number of cases they have done but it is in the hundreds and I do know they are a center of excellence  in bariatric surgery.  I went to visit them and I guess I felt comfortable with it and went that route.  On the lighter side - I am a cyclone fan and I didn't get too much grief from the Hawkeye fans while I walked around in my red and gold!!  Take care and good luck!

I had my RNY done by Dr. Jamal in Iowa City.  If I had to do it all over again I'd pick him in a second!  I had a great experience and would recommend anyone to go there!

Chris