Looking for support and the ability to pick your brain.....lol

Hello!! My name is Anne, and I just began taking the steps for WLS at the Barix Clinic in Ypsilanti. I've met with Dr. Schram, and I have a sleep study scheduled, along with an appt. to see the cardiologist. Also, I need to lose 40 lbs before surgery so that Dr. Schram can have a better chance to do the bypass laproscopically. I am 31 and I live near Sturgis. I am looking for support online and I am planning to attend a local support group soon. Is there anyone out there that is close by??? I'm looking to chat and learn from someone who's been there, or about to go there. Thanks!!! Anne

HI ANNE! CONGRATS on your first steps in WLS! You have picked a wonderful place! THIS I KNOW, b/c I had my surgery there on March 15th 2006. By Dr. POPLAWSKI. At Barix They have support group meetings every 3rd SAT of the month. Its held on the 2nd Floor in the Cafeteria. Next one is May 20th. I really hope you can make it. If you have time read my profile. It tells you everything and anything What I went thru at Barix and so-on. Talk to you soon Kimberley 273/233/140 Highest/NOW/Goal

Kimberely, Thanks for making me feel so welcome!!!!! I am so excited/nervous/happy!!! I am going to read your profile today...congrats on your surgery!!!!! --and you're right! B/C is so great in covering everything.....you've gotta love that!! Take care and I'll be in touch!! Anne

Hi Anne and welcome!! You have found the right place for support! This Board was a God-send to me and still is! I'm a permanent fixture here! I don't live near you, but please don't hesitate to ask any questions here, and you will get many answers. Best of luck to you! Theresa

Hi Anne, welcome to OH! This is a wonderful support group. I have learned so much in my short time here, and I am glad to have a place where everyone can relate to my same struggles. I am not in your area so I can't offer advice in that area. I did however, look at your profile and I see that you have MESSA Insurance. I also have MESSA and I wanted to tell you that you should have no problems getting approved. I didn't have to contact them, my surgeons office did and they approved me in exactly 14 days. I had NO problems what-so-ever. They also cover 100% of the surgery, which means no out of pocket cost to me. So I just wanted to encourage you in that area. You certainly have that working in your favor! Praying that everything will fall in place for you!! Kathy

ALL BCBS are really wonderful for this surgery I can see. We are pretty lucky..

Hi Anne: Best of luck to you on your weight loss journey! I, too, had my surgery at Barix with Dr. Schram an can say first hand that I have been most pleased with his care and expertise! The staff were exceedingly thorough and very helpful every step of the way, too. My advice to you is to educate, educate, educate. And the folks here on the board will support you along the way. Again, best of luck to you and take care. Maria W.

THANKS SOOOOOO MUCH to everyone who has replied!! It feels great to know that there are other people out there that have either gone through this journey or about to go through it with me. Thanks again, and I'll be in touch as I have more questions! Take care and God Bless!!! Anne