LOOKING FOR MENTOR

I had my consultation today with Dr. Kam at Barix in Ypsilanti and things are on their way for me to have the surgery. I am looking at the lap band procedure (various reasons). All I need to do to get my date is have my PCP fax my last EKG to Barix, get a letter from my PCP and get the Psychological Eval. done. So here we go.... I could really use a mentor though. Even if you didn't have lap band surgery and you had the gastric bypass I would really like a "pen-(e-mail)pal" to be my guide through this journey. I hope that doesn't sound needy...I could just really use someone unbiased and motivational to help me through. Thanks a bunch...this place is great (Dr. Kam said so too ) Nikki On my way

Good for you Nikki! I had my surgery at Barix 2 1/2 year ago. It was a wonderful experience. I would highly recommend them. I also had reconstructive surgery with their on staff plastic surgeon Dr. Vincent DiNick. He is amazing - would definitely recommend him! You are on the right track. If you have a any questions - just ask. I'd be more than happy to try and help you. Take care, Carey

Thank you Carey! My mom had her surgery there in 2003 and also had reconstructive surgery in 2004 with Dr. DiNick. She looks great and I hope to soon, too! You look great! I bet your life sure has changed! Thanks again, Nikki

I had open RNY July 19, 2005, I've lost 151 lbs to date, and was JUST at Barix this past Saturday to meet with Dr. DiNick MD., to be considered for a tummy tuck. So I know the facility and can already say wonderful things!!! I'm here for you and you are welcome to EMAIL me anytime .... and once you get your surgery date, don't forget you need an ANGEL!!! Stacey

Stacey, you are the sweetest! I see your encouraging messages all over this board! Congrats on 151 pounds!!!! That is wonderful. How do I get an angel once I have a date? What exactly is an angel? Nikki

Nikki, Let me tell you just what you have in Dr. Kam. You have an outstanding doctor and a wonderful person. I had surgery in February of this year and a month later I had some relatively serious complications, not directly linked to the surgery but Dr. Kam was there for not just me but also for my family. He called the hospital everyday while I was in critical care to find out how I was doing even though he was on vacation part of the time. He is a very kind and caring individual who knows what he is doing and doesn't pull any punches. The facility is also outstanding. The care after surgery was nothing less than wonderful and every time I go back for check-ups, there is always a smile and friendly face that greets me. Don't hesitate to send me a note if there is anything that I can do. I don't regret a minute and although the weight is coming off much slower than I would like, it is coming off and that beats the alternatives by a long shot. Pam

It's great to hear such positive things about Dr. Kam. Did you also have the lap band or did you do the gastric bypass? You say the weight is coming off slow but I guess we all have to remember that we didn't gain it overnight, right? I know I am so impatient with all this! How much have you lost? Nikki

Hi Nikki!! I'm in the same boat as you! I have Dr. Kam as my surgeon as well. I have done as you listed (EKG, letter from PCP and psych eval) -- all completed and turned in. Now, I'm just waiting for "the call." All that to say, whatever I can do to help -- I'd be happy to!!!! Blessings, Marie

Thanks for your help Marie. I have an appointment with your doc for Monday. Her receptionist was so kind. I really appreciate your input! Wouldn't it be neat if we had our surgery around the same time? My mom still keeps in touch with her roommate from Barix. It can really build strong friendships! Thanks again, you're great! We're on our way Nikki

Hi Nikki had my surgery with Dr Kam last Sept everything went perfect, I am now 10 lbs under my goal. Anything I can do to help just ask. Good Luck