Hi and thanks!! I'm guessing the information seminar is what I registered for that's July 13. A stress test? Does he schedule that? I was hoping to do a lot of this over the summer, but it looks like the process will definitely drag on, huh? I know it will probably go fast, but from here, it looks like it'll take a long while. lol

Thanks everyone! 

Hi Pinkone!  The time frame is different for everyone, depending on tests, insurance, etc.  My first seminar was at the end of November 2006.   My surgery is scheduled for 07-16-07 (however, I was denied the first time by my insurance BC/BS, but my primary care physician did not send all the paperwork I requested and it took me almost a month to get it from him!).   You will also need to attend an informational class, and a support group meeting which is held the first Saturday of every month.  It is up to Dr. Eibes if you will need a cardiac stress test as well.   Things went very smoothly for me with getting all the tests done and doing what I needed to do until I was denied in March.  Once I finally got the info from my doctor, I faxed it to Dr. Eibes and he wrote a letter to go with the additional info to the insurance company.  They finally approved me at the end of May!   Good luck and keep us posted!!! JoDee 

Just wanted to drop in and say hi. I couldn't even tell you the last time I was in the forum.  Many months that is for sure!  I have had so many things going on in my life I dont think I can update it all right now.  Still with my boyfriend and very happy.  My family and I moved in with him and his family in April.  (Total of 7 in the house now!)  I started a new job and no longer have health insurance which scares the crap out of me (any ideas on who will supply it for a somewhat decent price?..wellmark said no).  I love my job though and its even in the field that I am studying at Dmacc.   I am officially at 191.0 as of yesterday morning.  I started my journey at 303 and now at 191.  I'm so grateful!  I havent been doing the best on my vitamins, bu****ching my water and protein.  I know it should be the whole kit and caboodle.   Had a few problems with constipation and extreme pain.  Thought I had to go to the ER but was able to do an enema and clean myself out.  I realized if I dont go every other day that I need to start taking something for it.  The last time it was 5 days when I got sick.   I am absolutely loving my new self and love being able to go to garage sales and buy all these new clothes.  I also love how people keep saying I am withering away!   I hope everyone else is doing well and I will try to do better on staying in touch.  Janine

congratulation!  That day will be here before you know it.  Good luck. Sheena