Help from New York State

ah thank you and being scared is Normal im scared too but more scared to die before my time:)

Mary-Anne, Toronto isn't too far from Buffalo.  I had Dr. Caruana and was very happy with him.  I went for my first appointment in early Feb and had my surgery in May...I could have had it as early as April.  The staff is very helpful with all the "hoops" you have to jump through for insurance approval.  Good Luck...you sound determined! Rosemary

Hi Rosemary, That's great to hear.  I'm not so worried about the insurance as I am about travelling for all the appointments.  Are you a distance from his office and if so, could they make appointments in groups for you to save travel?  Thanks and take care, Mary-Anne

I am an hour and a half south of Buffalo.  You do have about 2-3 appointments before the surgery (exercise and nutriction) ...you might be able to do those in one day.  Of course there is pre-op appointment at Sister's Hospital.  Have you gone on line and taken the pre-appointment "class"?  I think the website is www.synergybariatrics.com. Rosemary

Hi Rosemary, Yes, I've applied to go online for the class, just waiting for approval and, I guess, a password.  I called Rochester today and they want my OHIP approval even before they will see me but there was some indication that they might accept all the testing I have already had done.  And, in some cases, the will allow you to have your pre-op the day before your surgery.  So it all might work out for me this time.  Thanks for the encouraging words.  Take care, Mary-Anne

Hi Mary-Anne, I correspond with a woman named Jennie.  she is from Canada.  She goes by the name of Jennwren.  We are going to the same doctor - Dr. O'Malley (from Rochester, NY).  She is at the final step just waiting for the phone call for the date of her operation.  Maybe she can give you some great advice (you know, been there done that type thing).  Good luck - Debbi

Hi Debbi, Good suggestion, I'll try to get in touch with her in the next couple of days.  I called Rochester today and made an initial request for Dr. O'Malley.  They need OHIP approval before they will even see me but it seems that the fact that I have already had all the testing might save me some time.  Thanks for your good wishes.  Take care, Mary-Anne

Hi Mary-Anne! I know Jennie goes through OHIP (don't know if there is any other insurance in Canada).  She has had all of her pre-qualifications done (psych eval. and nutrition appts.)  She is just waiting to hear from OHIP.  Send her an e-mail.  She is a nice lady and I know she will be able to put your mind at ease.  Debbi I really feel sorry for you with all of the stuff you've been through.  I "know" that Dr. O or one of his other docs can help you out.  Keep your chin up. I know waiting is the toughest.  I'm just about to pull my hair out because of the waiting.  Keep me informed.  I care!

Hi Debbie, You coulnd't be sweeter.  I have found Jennie and we are in touch.  Thanks for all your help and encouragement.  My chin has certainly lifted!  Take care, Mary-Anne

You are so welcome!  I'm glad that you have "talked" to Jennie.  I have another name for you just in case Dr. O'Malley can't do it or whatever.  His name is Dr. Pasquale Iannoli.  He is located in Rochester NY also.  His number is 585-723-0540.  I know someone on this web site that has gone to him and she was pleased.  Let me know how things go with you.  I'm hoping for the best for you! Debbi