Question:
Anyone out there have any ideas to help- me get through the next 5 months?

Unfortunately I can't even get into the doctors office for a consultation until August 21st. I am ging out of my mind because of the wait! Well at least I will have had the chance to research this thoroughly. (Not that I already haven't!) Anyway, any idea's would be greatly appreciated!    — Happy B. (posted on March 15, 2001)

March 14, 2001
Happy - I started researching in October...and finally have a surgery date of May 29th...I know the wait is a pain...here are my suggestions to help the time go by....start increasing your water intake to 64 oz a day..if time allows, start slowly walking...start testing your post-op diet...i.e. protein shakes...baby food...sugarfree foods...etc...I know it's not much...but it might help a little. Good Luck, Karan
   — chance2lv

March 14, 2001
Hi Happy! Well, here's my two cents worth... with an adorable name like yours, I'm sure you will be remembered by the Drs. office staff. And since I'm sure you didn't get that name by being grumpy, I say let your bright personallity shine through and call the office almost DAILY asking if there has been any cancellations. It won't be long and they will all remember you and you'll be the first one they call if something becomes available sooner. I work in a doctors office, and I must tell you.... we DO have our favorites. Another suggestion... take the time and effort to drive to the office with a bouquet of fresh cut flowers after you've given the girls time to know who 'Happy' is and introduce yourself! A smiling face is sure to win them over!!! I can almost guarantee you success for an earlier consultation with these tips!!!! Good Luck!
   — Laurie L.

March 14, 2001
This is a little different answer maybe. Perhaps, you could look for another DR.? When I decided to go for this surgery in Dec. of last year the Dr. closest to me couldn't get me in for a consult until August of this year and no surgery until March of 2002!! I decided to keep looking for other Dr's in my STATE or surrounding States instead of just my Area. In Jan. I found a Dr. 6 hours away. I had my first consult on 2/2 and my surgery on 2/22. If you can't go out of your area and need to stick with the Dr in August then take this time to start getting yourself strong for surgery. I found working out for a few months before my surgery really helped my recovery! Good Luck on whatever you decide~
   — Stephanie E.

March 14, 2001
Happy! We're in the same boat. I have an appt. for Aug. 1st...which seems like forever. So I've also called other surgeons/programs in my area and am hoping they can do something to speed things up. In the meantime the other suggestions posted make a lot of sense so I'll be implementing them too. It's just a test...we need to learn how to go slow anyway. Keep the faith, Girlfriend!
   — Lynn E.