where to start????

well im going to an info seminar this wed i missed it last wed... just confused on where to get started. please help....

Hi Natalie,

It's nice to meet you and I look forward to getting to know you. Check with your insurance to find out what they cover, what their criteria is, and what if any restrictions/qualifications they might have. This will let you know what types of surgery are covered and which aren't. There are a number of different surgery types available and to be honest they all have positive and negative aspects that need to be evaluated. There really isn't such a thing as a perfect WLS for everyone, so you'll have to look at your needs and cir****tances to see what best suits you. YOu might want to 'lurk' on some of surgery boards to find out about the different types of surgeries available.

You'll also want to join a support group. OH is a good start and I have to say that I think that this forum is fabulous. It's full of kind, thoughtful, caring men and women. You can come ask questions here without fear of being flamed for asking a 'stupid' question.

It's important to find a program that will provide you all of the support that you will need pre-op and post-op. Understand that the programs vary a great deal from one to another. Probably two of the biggest areas that they vary are the dietary guidelines... Once you choose a program, stick with their dietary guidelines even when you see someone else posting here that they could eat 'such and such' when they were where you are. If you want to change what you are eating talk with the Nutritionist with your program. The other big variable is the after surgery support. Make sure you find a program with a robust support group. It makes a big difference.

There's a lot of information to absorb and you'll have a lot of questions.

We're here... just ask!

Hi Natalie! Welcome to the best forum ever! Hope to see you here often. You can get answers, motivation, and great positive support there!

BIG HUG for you,
Pam

Good Morning!!!!! Congratulations on taking the first and most difficult step in the journey. Which program are you looking into (Dr./ Hospital / type of surgery)? What part of the state are you in? 

I look forward to reading more posts from you and getting to know you. Ask as many questions as possible and take all the time in the workd to educate yourself.

- Iris

thanks for responding ladies im in charlotte nc im looking into dr kuwada at cmc refered by a family friend that also had the surgery ive been a member for a litte while now but just really made the decision of wls.