Thinking this over. Need advice.

The Idaho group doesn't seem to be very chatty. I hope I can get some advice/encouragement etc. here. I am finally thinking about surgery. As others before me, I tried diets and I fail them. How will this be any different? Why can I do great with other areas of my life and fail at my own health? Can you recommend a doctor in the Boise area? Are there any local support groups I can attend before surgery? Thank you, Dianna

Hello Dianna! I would highly recommend my doctor, Dr. Oakley. He's awesome. He also has support group meetings monthly that you are welcome to attend. His website is www.thinidaho.com. If I can answer any questions for you, I'd be happy to. Just let me know! Michelle =)

Hi Dianna, I had my surgery Aug 6, 2004. I am doing well. The surgery has not been a walk in the park, but I take each day as it comes. Each week I feel better and more like myself. I have had no complications. My doctor is Dr. Korn. He has taken very good care of me. The only thing is he only does the surgery as open. I have heard very good things about Dr. Oakley as well. Best of luck on your journey. Peace, Sherry

Thanks for your response Sherry. There is so much to learn about these procedures and of course I have a ton of questions. You said your surgery had not been a walk in the park .. shoot my pain is so severe now from arthritis .. and weight .. can't breath that I couldn't even walk in the park. Not what you meant I know, but I couldn't help thinking that. I hope you continue to do better and better each day. Thanks again, Dianna

Hi Dianna, I wish there was more activity on the Idaho board also, but we are a small state, eventually I am sure it will pick up. I started my journey in March and my surgery is next week. I am having mine done in Spokane Wa. because I live in northern Idaho. There is no support for me as I live 2 hours away from Spokane, I really rely on the main message board. There is an endless wealth of information there. Day or night there is always someone to answer questions or provide support. Good Luck and Hugs Wendy (up north)

Hi Dianna, Mom just told me today you were thinking of having weight loss surgery. I had Dr. Oakley in Boise, and he is awsome. I too had tried many diets and failed them, but if you go into this with the right mind set, that this is a TOOL to help you, you can and will succeed. Check out my profile and the updated pics, you will see what I mean. Have mom give you my email addresses (home and work), you can email me anytime. If you can ever catch me at home, you are welcome to call me as well. Just get the number from Mom. Best wishes on your journey, it is a wild one. Cindy

I went to DR. Valentine in Nampa. I had the RNY done and in 8 months lost 120 pounds. His office is great, they have support groups, a great nutritionist, and friendly caring staff. I get a monthly newsletter from them and they also have a clothing exchange right there behind the office. Sorry if it sounds like I'm rambling on but I was have had lots of major surgeries and no other dr or office staff were ever like this. Kelly Stratton