M. Jay
August 4, 2006
Its been a while now since Ive been thinking about WLS. Ive been thinking about a lot more recently because Its gotten to the point where my joints are killing me. At times I find it so hard to walk and the pain is unbearable. I was always a heavy set girl but after the birth of my son last year Its become harder than ever to shed a pound. I remember years ago a friend told me I wasnt "Fat enough" for the gastric bypass and thinking DAMN! It was so discouraging and made me want to eat fast food all week.
Recently I was told about the LAP BAND and sure enough I meet the criteria. Well I meet the BMI criteria but have yet to see my PCP and a Surgeon.
I began doing research and I remember reading something about gathering all necessary information to provide to my insurance company. One of the suggestions was fitness club memberships , oh and Weight loss center memberships. Then I realized how long Ive been overweight. Ive done the "gym thing" several times. In fact I think the first time I did the gym thing was back in 1994. I did the weight watchers program as early as 1996. and several times after!
I realize now more than ever that its been a battle longer than I thought. Now I have my son to think about and as a single mother I have to stick around a long time for him.
Its time to get myself together. I have an appointment to see a surgeon the end of this month (August) so I hope he tells me im a candidate. Im so anxious, I want surgery tomorrow! =)
This site has been so helpful and I really love reading your stories. You are all an inspiration. Thank you for giving me hope.
August 24, 2006.
Hey! Theres been some changes now. Well I finally met with my PCP who states that I have inflammation and Arthritis. I expressed my desire to have surgery and he did not oppose. I was so afraid to tell him but he states that I may need to see a physical therapist but that the best thing that I could do was to lose weight. So when I mentioned it he was in agreement and will give me a referral. I was supposed to see a surgeon today which I anticipated for so long due to an insurance change I have to wait. I do have an appointment with a surgeon on September 1st when my new insurance kicks in. I have to wait another week but I try to stay optimistic. So... Everything happens for a reason. 
September 1, 2006.
I am EXCITED! I went to meet with my surgeon today Dr.Gorecki. Well first I must tell you my day from the beginning to the end. I arrived for my 9:30 appointment but... The referral I was given by my PCP wasnt "right". so I had to wait until the secretary got into her office at 10am. Ok so I call and shes having a bad day. Shes cranky, miserable and rude to Gorcki's office staff. So I think "Shi*" not a good start, but I try to stay optimistic and wait for her to fax the correct copy. Due to her "crankiness" it takes her an hour but Im okay because Im talking to other patients and watching some instructional video's.
So now its like 11am and I finally get called into an office and fill out some paperwork and then I meet with rachel. Rachel is a doll. She was so knowledgable and understanding. She goes over my condition and the procedures. After meeting with her I go back into the room and meet with Dr.Gorecki.
Hes so adorable and to the point! We spoke about his past procedures and my history. So he tells me to make an appointment for next month to see him but before i could leave his office I tell him "Dr.Gorecki, I know everyone wants this procedure like tomorrow, but I assure you that all the required testing will be scheduled today when I leave your office, I really need to know this can be done ASAP. He states "you want a pre surgery date?" and I say yes. He says "ill be right back" and I did cartwheels while he was checking his calendar. :Haha: When he returns he gives me "estimated pre-surgery" date. Yes you heard it right a date. My life will forever change on November 2, 2006.Well hopefully if all goes well and approval is quick.
I have to have a chest x ray, echocardiogram, liver/gall bladder/pelvic sonogram, pulmonary tests, psychiatric evaluation and a visit w/ nutrionist. I managed to schedule all testing within the hour after I left his office. I am so sure of this and want to waste no more time. I felt 100 lbs lighter when I left his office. :haha:
My only problem now is deciding WHICH surgery to have, I choose between Gastric bypass or Lap band. I have the next few weeks to decide but I think im leaning more towards gastric bypass.
Well I find it very helpful knowing the steps towards surgery. It is not the same case for everyone and depends on the patients history but If I can answer anyones questions about whats asked during the initial visit I will be glad to help. I will try to post often after the procedures to let people know what its like. 
October 27, 2006
IM APPROVED! There are no words to described the feeling you get before and after approval. Surgery is scheduled just days away Nov 2, 2006.
