Moving to Idaho

Hi all my name is Kelli, I am moving to Meridian at the end of July directly following my WLS in California. I need some help. I need a doctor that is aware of WLS and a support group to get connected can anyone help. I also only know 15 people in the state of Idaho. Anything would be great. Kelli

Where is Meridian Idaho? I live in northern Idaho. Glad to have you join our wonderful state. I've only lived here since last August.

Kelli, Meridian is right on the outskirts of Boise, and there is a GREAT WLS community in this area. There is also a wonderful surgeon here in Boise named Christian Oakley. His support group meets once a month and it's a wonderful group of people! There are a LOT of primary care physicians here in town too, that are aware and supportive of weight loss surgery. I would get a referral from Dr. Oakley regarding that. I have my own bias, lol, but I'll let you talk to his office if you want! You can check out Dr. Oakley's website at: http://www.thinidaho.com/ We'd love to have you join us at the support group meeting also! Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions! Check out Dr. Oakley's Patient Forum too: http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/forums/?ID=TR-994827309 Best of luck with your upcoming WLS!!! Please let me know if you have any other questions! Kathy

Hi Kelli, I agree Dr. Oakley is excellent. The next meeting in August 15th, it's usually on the 3rd Monday of each month at 7 pm. The meeting is near St. Lukes Hospital in Boise which, after you get on the freeway, is only about 15-20 minutes when you get on the connector. That time of the evening, the traffic isn't bad at all. You can call Jenifer at Dr. Oakley's office and she can send you some details about the meeting and get you on the mailing list. Their website is www.thinidaho.com in case you want to go there.

Dr Valentine in Nampa and a satelite office in Boise is also a great doctor. He has 3 support groups a month in 3 different locations around the treasure valley area (Boise area that is) Him and his whole staff and very compassionate and understanding. They are just wonderful. Feel free to read my profile which has links to his web site and feel free to email me for further questions. I do know of several people in Meridian that have used Dr Valentine and come to the support group. Our support group is small and very informative. You would really get a chance to make new friends. I have been to one of Dr Oakleys support groups, but to me they were too big, there wasn't much time to ask the questions you really wanted answered. In our support group there is plenty of time for questions and getting to know other people that have gone through the same surgery. I hope this helps.

Hello, I am new to Meridian from california myself. Does anyone have a recommendation for a good primary care doctor with an understanding of WLS. I had surgery a year ago and need to continue my follow-up appointments. I have been shopping around and have not been pleased. Jeremy

Jeremy, my husband and I are also considering moving from CA to the Nampa/Meridian area. How are you liking it? It'd be nice to hear a Californian's perspective. TIA! Susan

Kelli, my husband and I are considering moving to Nampa next summer (I've lived in CA my entire 37 years)! How is Meridian? Are you enjoying it there? Any info you can provide on the area would be great. We haven't been there yet, but have friends there, and another set of friends considering moving there, as well. THANKS! Susan