newbie here

I tried to send you an answer about my surgery- but it came back to me. Mine was Duodenal Switch and you can find it under the  forums tab drop down menu ....

Welcome and congrats on beginning your journey.   Reading stories of the people that have already been though this (by clicking on our names) was a life-saver for me.  It helped the time pass & really educated me about the decisions I was making, even to the point of changing what kind of surgery I wanted to have.  So take your time, and read, read, read & ask LOTS of questions.  I wish you the best on your journey!

Howdy!  How do you keep from losing your mind?  Sorry.  You don't.  You've just entered the emotional roller coaster.  Better strap in and hold on tight!  You'll go through so many highs and lows that your head will be spinning (maybe that's when the mind flies out?). But its worth it! After my seminar in June 2005 at Legacy, I had my visits scheduled near the end of July.  Then, for the most part I waited...  In September I got a call telling me my insurance had approved surgery and I was scheduled for October 7th.  Then I had surgery and the rest is history! I will tell you this -- if you're wanting Dr. Patterson be prepared to wait even longer.  I went with Dr. Jan and have no complaints about him at all.  They're both surgeons and have that personality (so don't expect warm and fuzzy since they're all about getting things done).  I have, however, found that Dr. Jan has been incredibly supportive even though I've been a really slow loser (due to other medical reasons, not my band). Good luck and enjoy the ride! Lori

So you mean I won't just lose weight, I'll lose my mind too?  LOL  Actually, I'm okay with the losing my mind... if I can just keep telling myself that six months is about the tops I can start counting down from there. I too choose Dr. Jan.  Mostly because he's the one who did our informational seminar, and, like you said, I just got a feeling about his personalaity.  I've read the boards and a lot of people were commenting on how he was really quick, but yet would listen when needed.  That was nice.  And you're right... he's a surgeon... can't expcet the warm and fuzzy that I get with my family doctor!  lol Thanks for the info!

No problem!  If you have any questions, just ask! I think I lost my initial 20 pounds just from my brain... Lori