Hi from a newbie!

Hi everyone!   My name is Allison and I've been lurking for a little while and thought I would start to jump in.  I'm new to the WLS process even though I've been doing alot of reading/researching. I've picked my surgeon.  I'm using Dr. Jean-Baptiste out of Plainfield.  I met with his office already and they were great.  The only thing that did shock me is the program fee.  I know other offices don't charge but there are very few surgeons that take my insurance and he is one of them.  I was quite impressed with his qualifications so I decided that I've wasted more money on junk so I should invest some in myself for a change. I've started setting up all the appointments for the specialists.  That should take awhile to get done but I'm forging ahead.  I start with the appointments next week.  I'm excited but the nerves are starting to set in.  This is definitely something I plan on doing but I know I'll be back here for support.  Reading all the stories and seeing the pictures has definitely encouraged me.   Hope to start being on the loser's bench soon!! - Allison

Hey Allison - Welcome and good luck!  This site is wonderful!  It is very helpful and inspiring!  I check out others before and after photos as well as their stories, it is quite interesting! GOOD LUCK TO YOU!!!!!

Thanks!  I've been checking out all the photos.  I am so in awe of everyone.  This is really much harder then I ever thought.  Before I started lurking, I was always under the impression that they did surgery, the weight magically melted away and you went back to eating normally.  Hmmm, guess not!!  This is definitely a lifestyle change and one I'm willing to commit to but its not a walk in the park!! 

Welcome to the boards and good luck on your roller coaster ride starting next week.  Even pre op isn't a breeze.  There's fighting with insurances, getting all your clearances, some have a liquid diet pre op depending on the surgeon and you weight loss....oh it's one thing after another.  I started this process back in January - got a date of Oct 2...only to have it cancelled because at PATs they found a thyroid problem.  :(  And ya know what??? It's STILL worth it.  Every second of it!!!   Good luck, post any time, people here are really supportive, so post ANY time, good bad or ugly!! Pam

Hi Allison, welcome... I'm new to the boards and have just started making all of my plans/appts as well so I really can relate to the nerves acting up....I am so excited about the changes to come and now that I've finally taken the steps to get the doctors appt and get the ball rolling, I have that Nervous "it's really going to happen" feeling......it's a good nervous ...keep coming to the boards...they're fantastic.......great people and wonderful success stories to keep you motivated

Hi Allison,

Welcome!  I'm also new.  We seem to have the same Dr.  I also am starting my pre-op appointments next week.  I pm'd you.

Hi Allison, My name is Dawn and I've done the same as you with the lurking. I have an appointment with Dr. Jean-Baptiste on Fri the 28th and my nerves are showing the last couple days.  I've heard very good things about him and he takes my insurance until Dec this year they told me. Can you tell me what i'm in for? Maybe knowing will help me calm myself down I don't usually get nervous but this is a big step. I've been thinking and researching for a couple years and now I know it's time to do it.  Keep in touch maybe we will run into each other at the office. Take Care, Dawn

Dawn, The appointment went well.  The people in the office are so nice.  They weigh you, explain the program, answer any questions, meet with the nutritionist and then meet with the doctor.  Any question can be asked and answered.  They encourage you to attend the support meetings.  I can't make one until November so hopefully I will see you there.  PM me any other questions you have.  And it looks like we are on the same schedule so we can help encourage each other.  This is a great forum!   Thanks to everyone for the support.  I'm nervous but excited!  I think by the time surgery rolls around I'll be a basket case!  My poor husband is in for a very emotional ride. 

Allison, How much is the program fee. I'm a single mom and I don't have a great paying job. Thanks Dawn

Hi Dawn, I'm new too.  Dr J-B is my surgeon also.  You'll like him and his staff alot.  They're great. If I remember correctly (I don't have my folder with me today), the fee is $1800 and must be paid in full before your last pre-op visit (approx 2 weeks before surgery).  I'll PM you when I get home to let you know exactly.