I agree the timing might have been a bit difficult - depending on what you usually do on Thanksgiving. However, just think what a Christmas gift you've given yourself. Congratulations - and welcome to the "losers' side". It is a wonderful place to be. Are you going to go to the support meetings available through Sioux Valley Hospital?

Hi, I am also a newbie and I am scheduled to be banded on december 6th! I am both terribly excited and nervous. I am surprised how smoothly(and fast) everthing has gone considering how difficult insurance companies can be. I just wanted to say hi and meet other local lap banders. Suzy

Hi all, So I have my last Dr. appointment on Tuesday the 21st and then all I have to do is wait for insurance! I am so excited, scared, nervous, ...heck I have just been all over the chart with emotions...I work with the surgeon who is going to be doing my surgery and I cry almost everytime we talk about it...I bet he can't wait for me to get this done! HA..anyway...how long does an insurance approval usually take? Thanks!

Congratulations. I've seen Dr. O'Brian talk at our support groups and he is very knowledgable. I had Dr. Graham and had the RNY - lap. I chose this because it allows you to lose the most weight and I needed to lose a lot of weight. I am almost six months out now and down almost 100 pounds. I hope to see you at a support group, but I suppose you will find one of those closer to home. If you are around on the 20th of this month, we are meeting at Sioux Valley lower level at 7 PM

Hi Sheri... Well, I decided on the Lap Band for several reasons. I like that it is less invasive. I like that the band can be adjusted. I like that the recovery time is shorter..I have 2 very little girls! So it just seemed to be the best fit for me. My insurance approved within 4.5 weeks of my initial visit with Dr. Obrien. I went for the required psych eval, and dietitian visit, and I was approved right after those were completed. I am going to the required Lap class that you have to take before the surgery on Nov 29th. I liked O'Brien very much..He was highly recommended..and I feel very secure that he is the right Dr. for me. Good luck with everything! Keep me posted! christine