Mid west Michigan/Grand Health Partners "Alumni" - post here!

Seems like we're all pretty far flung from each other here on the Michigan forum.
How about those of you who have had surgery at Grand Health Partners
or live in mid west Michigan post our pics and updates here?
AND!  Where do you live?
I live in Cedar Springs/Nelson Township north of Grand Rapids.  
Would love to get a support group going in north Kent County.
I had a VSG August 30th with Dr. Kemmeter who totally ROCKS!
Such a nice man!!  I'm currently 3 months post-op and have lost 50 lbs so far.  See my before pics on my profile page.  Here's my most recent pic taken on Thanksgiving. Love my sleeve! 
Hope everybody had a great Thanksgiving!

Hi! I had the sleeve with Grand Health Partners..with Dr. Foote..great guy as well!!

My sleeve was on April16, 2010...I am 19 mths postop.

I live in Ionia County..about 40 min or so east of Grand Rapids.  I have been to Cedar Springs many times..used to live in Stanwood and Big Rapids..not too far from there..and used to work in Cedar Springs for Thermal Tec.

Nice to meet you Dawnie!

I have not yet had my surgery but I am hopeful I am planning on getting the vgs done It is just a matter of money no insurance eventually I will get it done though so happy for your weighloss I have been hopeful since 2008. I am in Grand Rapids Michigan. Near Plainfield NE

Hi!

I'm Matt, I live in Otsego and had a RNY by Dr. Baker.  I am now out 6 years.

Congratulations on your progress.

Keep up the great work!

In regards to a group, contact GHP and they will likely be happy to help you set one up.  I have a group I coordinate in Kalamazoo and GHP has been very helpful.

E Saenz you might want to consider going to Mexico for WLS if you have to pay out of pocket.  I've read quite a few good reports on some of the surgeons and facilities.

Thanks Matt...I would start a group if there was enough interest. If anybody is on the NE or NW side of GR or in north Kent or surrounding areas and would like to get monthy support group going please let me know!

I am in Comstock Park and am meeting with Dr Kemmeter this afternoon. I am hoping to get the duodenal switch with him. I have not met him yet, but always read great things about him. They told me of the support group that meets at Grand Health Partners like the 2nd Wednesday every month, you may want to stop over there to recruit a few people for another.

I would be interested as well... 

Dr. Kemmeter is AWESOME!  
How did your appointment go?
Yes they do have support group meetings at GHP.
You can pick up a flyer there on the days & times.
Alot of their meetings conflict with my work schedule so I've only
gone 2-3 times so far.
Please keep us posted on your journey & Merry Christmas!

Thanks Vicky, I sent you a friend request and I am blogging my journey on my page, feel free to check it out and leave any comments and support you have.

The appointment went well, I must say that Dr Kemmeter was different than I expected, in a good way. I didn't expect anything bad, but he did exceed what I did expect. It is a waiting game now, he said that I should hear from "Nettie" in the next 2 weeks once they have final insurance paperwork and approvals. Then probably surgery about 3 weeks after that! Seems like a long time, but it will be here before I know it, I am sure...

I am thinking about checking out the support group when they meet next month....

You have a Merry Christmas too! 

 Hi from Kzoo, Mi, 

Dr Kemmeter, GHP, St Mary's Hospital, Duodenal Switch, 8/29/11
Lost 76 lbs including pre surgery diet in 4-5 months

Many thanks to all those at GHP who helped me along the way, Cathy Mooney, Christine Becker and Dr. Kemmeter, PA's and nurses..... Everyone has been so nice and given me personal attention, answered all my endless questions in person and on line!! I cant thank them enough for all the time spent with me during their busy days. I know I chose the best group and surgery for me. The on going care and support groups, topic lectures, cognative discussion groups, psychology topics and exercise advice from Andy has all been super helpful keeping me on a successful track for healthy weight loss. I had no idea my arthritic hip pain would be relieved in just a few months post surgery. I can walk 4 miles at the gym, bike for miles, use 10 weight machines, floor exercises, stretching, and Zumba classes. My personal trainer sees such a marked difference in my abilities from the first day I began with her. I could hardly walk to the mail box or walk my dog with out pain. The surgery was worth all the planning, recovery and continued educational support group meetings, considering how much my life has changed for the better. 
Being able to buy clothes in a size medium is unbelievable for such a short time out from surgery. All the advice from Dr. K has come true. Exercise and weight lifting has helped with toning, and my increased strength and endurance spur me on to work out even more! I am able to redirect my attention away from food, in exchange for developing a love of exercise. In the spring, I intend to be able to return to  tennis and tournaments . I enjoyed participating in all kinds of sports  in college many years ago, and miss the social aspects of team sports.

I would love to see anyone from GHP - considering surgery, pre- surgical , or post-surgical  who lives in Kzoo,  join me at Bronson Gym for  workouts, or at least a walk around the indoor track.  A local support group who exercises together would be more beneficial than talk sessions!!! If I cant convince you to walk with me, then join me at the snack bar for a round table discussion and meet and greet some time. Let me know your availability, and we can coordinate a day and time that works for all.
Happy Hollidays,
Sandra C.