St. Joseph's Hospital and Health Center Hospital
Dr. Graber and his staff has always been very helpful in answering my questions and orchestrating my appointments leading up to my surgery date. Dr. Graber is insistent on the patient being successful in their weight loss and actually has a "contract" that is signed by the patient as well as himself which states that both parties will do everything necessary for this to be successful. He was very clear in explaining all of the risks of the surgery and spent as much time with me as I needed to make sure that all of my questions were answered.
Someone once said if you are looking for all warm and fuzy, Dr. Graber is not it, well they were right, instead he seems very well educated, sincere, thoughful, helpful and from what I've heard a very well respected surgen. I believe in Dr. Graber and I am will to place my life in his hands. I am so thankful that God has directed me to him. In a nutshell, Dr. Graber is wonderful.
12/27/03
I have my initial appointment with Dr. Graber scheduled for 1/20/04. His name came to me from an acquaintance, who had him as her surgeon and speaks very highly of him. When i called his office, his staff was professional & caring and scheduled me for their soonest available appointment. I then received their "packet" of info in the mail, which very clearly spelled out the procedure and aftercare. Can't wait to meet Dr. Graber and his staff in person.
1/24/04
I had my initial consult with Dr. Graber a few days ago. He did seem knowledgeable , casual, and kind of nervous.Maybe that's just the type of person he is.They're booking surgeries into April/May. Oh yeah, and they need a few more things done first that my last surgeon(out on medical leave)didn't request, so I have a few more hoops to jump through.:(
When I asked someone about Dr. Graber, They told me if you're looking for 'Warm and Fuzzy' this isn't the guy, but if you want someone who'll be there for you, watch over you, and take good care of you, this is the guy. They were right. My case was difficult as I've had VBG before. It was 6 hours for this surgery.I developed a fever in the hosp., Dr G was there at all hours, checking on me supporting me. He's a talented surgeon, and I'm GREATFUL that he was willing to help me on this, my second time around!
<b>Surgeon:</b> <a href="/morbidobesity/mdcomments.php?N=1034240388">William Graber M.D.</a><br>
Wonderful first impression; very knowledgeable about the procedure; office staff is wonderful and makes sure you completely understand exactly what you are getting into having the surgery (post-surgery diet, etc). I also do highly recommend the Utica WLS support group, available on groups.yahoo.com (Utica-wls) and which meets 2nd tuesday of each month in Soggs Room of St Luke's Home, behind St Lukes Hospital on Champlin Ave in Utica. (Update Jan 04) I guess there is also a group for Dr Graber/St Luke's as well (although I'd like to see them turn ppl away (NOT!)) on the 4th Thursday of the month, same place (Think also at 7..). Side note that makes everything easier - Dr Graber is now in Utica since Hamilton decided they wanted to "review" the procedure being performed there. </table>
I had my first appointment with Dr.Graber 8/5/03. I was late because I got in a car accident on my way to this appointment. They took me 45 mins late (thanks all who had to wait because of me!). I have from that moment up until now (ALMOST 4 months post op.) been completly satisfied with the service I have gotten from Dr. Graber and his office staff. I had troubles with my ins. company not wanting to approve me for the EXACT surgery Dr.Graber wanted to do (Long limb vs. Short limb) and Terry worked and worked and worked with me... I know I was a thorn in her side for a couple of weeks, but she was always kind. I am SO happy I decided to go with Dr.Graber (He was not my original choice). At first I was impressed with his information packet (FULL OF GREAT INFO) and that has turned into an over all impressed by the whole experience. I agree with those in the past who said "if your looking for warm and fuzzy, that might not be Dr.Graber." Dr.Graber is quick & to the point, but ALWAYS listens to EVERYTHING you have to say! I believe that he is just as excited with my success and loves to see how the works he has done - changes a persons life forever! He has been everything that I could have ever wanted him to be and more! I would and have highly recommended him to anyone who is researching WLS.