Day 3 The meetings went awesome yesterday. I talked a lot to the Psychologist (Regan Shercliffe) and had a good time. He drove only one point home to me... honesty. He wanted me to not be afraid of telling him the truth about anything as he is not there to judge, just to help people identify emotional triggers that can feed into the obesity, and to make sure I had enough support at home. But only as much support as I needed, not what he thought I needed. The Physiotherapist (can't remember her name) just checked mobility, functionality of my limbs, and some strength tests. The Kineseologist aka Exercise Therapist (Greg Bridgeman) took me for a walk around the Paul Schwan Centre on the indoor track to see how much distance I could cover in 6 minutes. Also, I have to record everytime my heartrate increases above my resting heart rate. I feel carpal tunnel syndrome coming on...lol Actually, it was one of Greg's students that tested me. The Registered Dietician (Allison Kapp) tested me on my knowledge of food and calories, and portions...etc. Also have to record everything I eat and follow the Canada Health Food Guide. Honestly, I actually enjoyed the entire process and if it's what you and your Doctor agree on, go for it. For a 15 Month Pilot Project, it's great ! Well, except for the half hour lunch. I hope to see some other posts on here... Bye for now.

That would be great. I'm going to Dr. Pompa in Tijuana. I'm going down with a group in July. A group is just on their way back today and I have been chatting with a girl that went and I can not wait to hear all about it. Are you in Regina Elaine?? I'm just 30 mins outside of Regina. I won't really be able to talk for a bit tho. We are having company in tomorrow for the week so I'm going to be pretty busy, but if it's ok, I can call you after they leave.... Either way, let me know..k? Thanks Marg

Hi Joel, Wow, that is exciting!! Sounds exhausting but exciting..lol. Good for you. I'm very interested in hearing how everything turned out!! Talk soon, Marg

Day 2 in the books. Met with a Physiotherapist (tested my mobility), Excercise Therapist (tested how far I could walk in 6 minutes around a track), Psychologist(tested me on what sort of support system I have at home, and any underlying issues), and a Dietician(tested my knowledge on certain types of food and helped me modify my diet). These 4 Disciplines that I think provided a well-rounded approach. After talking with Dr. Kaban, I did find out if they can not safely perform the Roux-en-Y laproscopicly, they would have to do a traditional incision. It's good to know it could go either way. Dr. Kaban says the mortality rate is 2% on average, and 14% for post-op complications. You can avoid being one of these statistics by following the surgeon and the multi-disciplinary team during follow up. Whew. After your second day, the team sits down together to compile their findings, then submits a report and the 6 month program begins. Found out my results tomorrow...Talk to you all soon... Joel Sopp Saskatchewan Bariatric Surgery Support Group President

Hi Joel! Go ahead and rant away - this site has been very quiet lately. I do not visit very often myself because of that reason. What kind of surgery are you "training" for? I had the LapBand in Mexico in November 2007 and am down 80 lbs. I love my band! I have tried to get the Sask Govm't to pay for it but I lost the battle! Good luck in your journey! Just thought I would drop you a quick note. Elaine Frerichs Annaheim, SK DOB: 09/11/2007