Hello from Rome, NY

Hello all! My name is Jen and I hail from Rome, NY. I am a 30 year old woman whose weight gain can mostly be attributed to medicines and PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome). I am currently 4'11" and 232 lbs. A few years ago, the weight-gain causing pills were replaced with meds that don't cause gains and I lost about 30 lbs, but then put it all back on. Since then, it's gone up and down. Currently I'm up. :( I religiously went to the gym 3X a week from 2002-2004 -- treadmill and weights -- and watched what I ate, but lost little to no weight. I am seriously considering WLS -- RNY, because I have read that this particular surgery will actually reverse the symptoms of PCOS, facial hair and all. I've suffered with this disease long enough and I want it to end. I'm ready to take the plunge: Exercise, eat less, and go through the surgery. I'm already eating less now, because my doc has increased one of my meds that also happens to act as an appetite suppressant. Hopefully it will continue. :) That's all for now. I'll be around to post my progress. Jen

Morning, Jen!

Glad to see you posting.  Congrats with your decision.  You will find that the folks here on OH are incredible.  Loads of support through the whole process.  Do you have an idea where you're looking to have surgery?  Add me if you'd like a friend.

Muah

Welcome to the loosers bench! I had my surgery with Graber and Fitzer in Utica. They were excellent. Have you found a Dr. yet? They have seminars at St. Lukes every thursday night at 6pm. You should go to one of them and hear what people have to say.  Add me if you would like. I live rather close to Rome if you ever want to talk pre or post op!

Thank you both for your support! I have not picked out a surgeon yet. My insurance (federal BCBS) requires me to have a referral from my primary care Dr. first. I am going to meet with her the day after MLK day. I've read about those seminars in the paper, but never went to one. I'm seriously considering going to one! I will read your profiles to see how your experiences went and add you as well. Thanks again! Jen

Hi Jenn,I live in utica,I had Dr.Graber and he did a great job.His office staff is very nice as well.i have'nt had ANY issues at all.I just did as I was told.I did attend a group meeting a St.Lukes as another member stated and it was very beneficial.Good luck in what ever decision you make.Take care ,Bob ,I put the smiley face in the wrong spot !! can't seem to move it !!

Hi Jen!!  I live in Rome NY too!! I had dr Graber he's fantastic, always there when you need him. Hes located in New Hartford next to st Lukes hospital. He can answer any questions you have and help you make this decision.  PM me if you need support. I'm in town and we can talk if you need a ear. Sky

Thank you for your message. :) I am going to talk to Dr. Graniero over at Slocum-Dickson and see what he's like. I've read good reviews of him on here, and he takes my insurance. Best, Jeni

Dear Jen, Welcome and good luck on your possible surgery.  I too had Dr Fitzer (from Graber and Fitzer). I would highly recommend them. You can ask your PCP for a referral to a certain Dr and most times they will honor that request. BTW, those 2 surgeons rule the roost so to speak at St Lukes.  If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. I live over near the Albany area. Joanie

Thank you two for your support! :) They sound like the top dogs in the area. :) I will probably go to one of their info sessions. Thank you for the info! Best, Jen

Hi Jen! I went to Graber and Fitzer and they are great!  Dr. Fitzer did my surgery and I really like him a lot.  Their whole staff is WONDERFUL!!  One thing I wanted to mention to you though is that they are as of January now considered out of network providers for BCBS so your deductible might be a bit higher.  They really are great though!  Blessings on your journey!