Hi Everyone-

Hi everyone- I thought I'd take a minute to introduce myself- I'm Donna and actually have been lucky enough to meet some of the wonderful people on this board in person in the Glen Burnie meeting. I'm just starting on this long and exciting journey to good health. I have an appt on Mon. with Dr Schweitzer at Hopkins to discuss the RNY and then go from there with all the pre op stuff/ dietician, psych, 6 months diet etc. I'd really like to get it done in Aug before my son goes back to school but I think that's pushing it as far as time goes.  Thanks for taking the time to share your triumphs and not so good times. They make it real for the rest of us! Donna

Hi Donna - Welcome to the Maryland Board!!!  Good luck with the whole process - it's kind of like a roller coaster, but very much worth the ride. Keep on the lookout - we try to have get togethers every 4-6 weeks, and everyone, including spouses and family, is welcome. Take care, Teresa (Tia)

Donna,    Welcome! I look forward to getting to meet you.

I just met with Dr. Schweitzer this past Monday (2/11), and it was a great appointment.  Hopefully you'll walk out of his office as encouraged as I was. My only snag....and one that I'm sure that you'll experience, too, is that the initial meeting with the nutritionist is delayed for quite some time because of staff shortages.  I won't be able to get in to see a nut until April 8th.  I was VERY fortunate to not have a 6-month diet consultation. I was really hopeful that I'd be able to get in to see the nut, get the insurance paperwork filed, and hopefully get approved before I return from my 3-week honeymoon.  I thought it would be great to come back from my trip and already have a surgery date in the very near future. At any rate, welcome to the board, and much luck to you for a successful life change.

Hi Donna, Nice to see you posting !!!   Good luck with your appointment on Monday and I look forward to seeing you again at the GB meeting on March 4. Hugs, Mo

Hi again! everyone and thanks for the welcome. Mo- I look forward to seeing you again in March. I might win the prize for going to the most groups sessions before surgery - I've already been to 2, go to one at Hopkins next week. and then the Glen Burnie ones.  I'm taking advantage of all the wonderful knowledge and suggestions you have! You glow girl- Glad your appt went well with Dr S. I'm excited and nervous at the same time. Since I need to have the 6 month diet documented, April will be ok with me as long as I can still do the classes now. 6 months seems so far away but I know it'll go by quickly. I'm going to try hard to get myself in better shape for the surgery. How did you like Dr S? Donna

Donna I really enjoyed meeting you at the last meeting.  You can never get enough support groups.  I look forward to seeing you again.  Keep your chin up and I tell ya, 6 months will fly by so fast you will wonder where it went but you are on the right path now. Hugs Kristen

Donna, Glad to see you finally post on here.  Of course you know I'm here if you ever need me.  I'll hold your hand through it all.  I'm always up for a good cry and sometimes I can even make you laugh! You will do great on this journey.  Go to all of the meetings you can.  Everyone has so much to share.  The best part is that they are so willing to share. I can't wait for you to join us on the losers' bench. Keep in touch. Love ya,

Welcome to the MD forum Donna!! I want to wish you all the best in your journey. You can read my profile everything is there from day one. It was a bit of a rough ride for me at first. But I am so glad I did this for me!!  It is the best gift that I could have ever given myself.   Best wishes.

hi, donna, my name is joann . im doing all my pre op stuff now. dr. kimberly steele at hopkins is my doctor. i havent been to any group meeting because i live on the eastern shore and there r no meeting places here.   i wish u all the luck donna