1. what's your first name? Adrienne 2. what state are you in? state of insanity. lol. jk. Virginia--northern 3. are/did you go to a military or civilian provider for your wls? Walter Reed 4. how far in the process are you? closer to the start of the process. I've only had my referal and initial consult. 5. any concerns that you have at this point regarding your wls/recovery/new life? I just want to learn more about the changes that I'm going to have to make. I'm positive that I want to do RNY though, as opposed to the lap band. 6. what kind of support system do you have? Eh. Not a whole lot of support from friends and family, but I really think they don't understand my situation. 7. any wisdom you can pass along to those in earlier stages of the wls procedure? Not really...other than make sure your paperwork is in alignment, and double check everything. That way, there are no delays...or as little delay as possible

since noone else in my house knows how to cook, how am i going to do all the tasting, etc. that goes along with cooking for my family after this surgery? has anyone had to adjust to this as well? maybe i'll just let my family starve themselves into learning how to cook. LOL

I had to see a general surgeon before so that he could put in an order for me to see a gastric bypass Doctor. AFter I was referred to a WLS doctor the ball just kept rolling, I didn't have a problem with tri-care at all, however I went through a MTF so that may have been why. I wish you luck on your journey, Im a newbie Post-op but if you have any questions just ask I will try to help you. Hugs Donna S Ft. Stewart GA

Whated to add this. I did a quick search with Tricare North and found this surgeon in Vernon Hills. MCCLELLAN, LESLIE C MD MERCY BARIATRIC WELLNESS CENTER 250 CENTER DR STE 201 VERNON HILLS, IL 60061 Office: (847) 549-6100 Provider Type: SPECIALISTS Provider Specialty: SURGERY, GENERAL Gender: Female Here is the surgeon's website for their program. http://bariatricwellness.com/ The center in Vernon Hills says this "Our 5,500 sq. ft. center is located in Vernon Hills, IL. It is conveniently located near I-94 & Route 60 and is approximately 30 miles north of the Chicago Loop. The facility also offers access to Alitus Integrative Health and Wellness (a Family Practice/Primary Care Physician Group), Psychology, Physical Therapy/ Exercise, Nutritional Program, Patient Support Group, Acupuncture, and Massage/Spa. Family changing rooms are conveniently located on the premises, as well as a child play-area." They have a second center in Harvard, Illinios located in a hospital. I couldn't asleep and thought I might as well do something productive while I'm awake. I hope it helps. Andi

Ok, my military friends since Tricare wants to send me to Milwaukee I thought I would start looking for someone closer to me. Has anyone gone to the Kane Center in Arlington Heights?