Hello!

I didn't realize there was a Missouri Forum...so glad that I found it!  My name is Heather and i will be having surgery in Springfield Mo with Dr. Christopher Edwards.  I've already had my psych eval and consult with the surgeon and now I'm just waiting to get my nut. class, exercise class, and behavioral education classes finished up so I can get a surgery date!  I'm a little bummed out that I couldnt get into my classes any sooner than the end of July/ first of August...but it will get here!  I'd love to connect with people who have had Dr. Edwards as a surgeon.  He seems to be great so far and I think I made a good choice going with him.  I live a little over an hour west of Springfield so I don't get to make it to the support groups as I'd like, so I have been using OH to learn as much as I can going into to surgery and also love reading about other's experiences post op.  I'm so excited about this journey and I cannot wait to be on the post op side!!

Heather,
I had Dr. Edwards and think he's an excellent surgeon. I had RNY, are you getting a band? We would love to have you come to one of our Circle of Friends meetings at the Library Center in Springfield. The next one is Friday, July 8, at 6:30pm. We are a very diverse group but we have lots of experience and we love new folks. It's easy to get to our meeting place from I-44 or from south and west of Springfield so if you want to come, I'll be happy to send you info. Our leader is Tami Bellings but she's finishing up an internship in counseling this summer and is very busy so I've been filling in a little. This forum and the main forum are filled with good information and you will be taught lots by Dr. Edward's office. The keys to success are drinking water, eating protein, being faithful about taking your vitamins and following the rules about what and when to eat. You are starting a new life with new rules and adjustments but the rewards of a healthier, happier life are soooo great. Remember that you are a powerful person and you CAN do anything it takes to make this work for you.
Hugs,
Lana

Hello Lana :)  I will be having RNY surgery also.  I could definitely make it to a Friday meeting much easier than the Monday support groups that I was told about.  I just got my Nutriton and exercise log last week that I have to fill out daily until my next appointments and while the exercise part of it isn't a problem, I'm trying to learn what types of protein that I need to be eating and how much and when it really comes right down to it, I never realized just how badly I was eating before!  It's a learning process for sure.  Thank you so much for the kind, re-assuring words!

 Hi Heather!!
I live by KC, MO, and I just had RNY surgery a week ago. I just recently found the Missouri forum as well. 
I have heard that Dr. Edwards is a good surgeon, so I'm sure you will have a great surgery with him. 
This site is a great place for support, so post often! It's helpful!
Steph

Hello Heather and Stephanie! Welcome to the Missouri board. It isn't as active as it used to be but maybe with some newbies it will revive. I am 8 years out and will try to answer any questions that I can. Stephanie, who did your surgery? Feel free to look at my journal if you want.

Hugs
Barbara

Welcome to the board heather.we know you are getting excited about having your surgery.it is one of the best things you can do for your self.i had mine a little over two years ago and my husband is almost 5 years out.we just moved from missouri a little over a year ago.we love to postr on here to keep in touch with everyone.my husband andy had his surgery in sedila and i had mine in columbia.any questions just ask away and again welcome.have  a great day and god bless.susan