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monymony
Member Since: 02/02/05
[Latest Posts]

Topic: Bariatric Event!

Hi everyone, there is a wls event being held  at Regional West Med Center in Scottsbluff, NE. It is on March 31st, 2012. It is from 8-2 in the Scottsbluff rooms. The cost of the event is 40.00 whi*****ludes lunch and snacks. There will a be cooking class, motivation and education. It is also a good place to talk with other bandsters and bypassers. Call me if you need information or to sign up. My number is 877-790-0006.  Hope to see you there. Mona

Veteran Bandster 2002

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seanbear66rn
Dracut, MA
VSG (04/06/12)
Member Since: 11/24/06
[Latest Posts]

Topic: LGBT forum invitation
Hello,
I just wanted to let people know   there is a forum for the community and anyone who is friendly and want to stop by. I was very active 3 years ago and would like to see it become active again.   It is listed under  "weight loss related"

I am not attempting to offend anyone. I understand that some might not agree with me posting. I am doing it to help LGBT people. Everyone has the right to not agree. I respect that.

                                                             Thank You !
    
                                                                    Sean


If you have trouble finding it just PM me
Sean  
 
YOU CANNOT GIVE SOMEONE HELP........YOU CAN OFFER HELP,  IT IS UP TO THE OTHER PERSON TO ACCEPT  OR REJECT IT !!!
  
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stephp77
Sioux Falls, SD
Member Since: 09/11/07
[Latest Posts]

Topic: Hello all

I recently moved back to Sioux Falls after living in Omaha for 8-9 years. While there I did have a lapband placed in Nov 2007. I did well at the beginning but a couple months after surgery my insurance stopped coverage for this service (basically anything to do with weight loss). Then I lost my insurance all together with a job loss. Since then I have gained back much of my weight (probably about 50 pounds in all). After personal life troubles I got a divorce and moved back to Sioux Falls in past Oct. Since then I have lost 25-30 pounds on my own. I honestly have no clue how I am doing it. I don't think I am eatting that much better or less in quantity. Right after I moved here I started a new job which supposedly has good insurance. I was told that they do have coverage for seeing someone here for fills. I do have my first appointment scheduled for the last week of Jan. I was also told that I need to have an upper GI first though to make sure everything is still ok and that the band is where it was placed. I have to admit that I am nervous about this test.

In the mean time I plan on checking out support groups though Sanford. I would also be interested to know if there are any not associated with the hospital.

Thanks.
Stephanie


Stephanie
Sioux Falls, SD

Height:  5'5.5"; Beginning weight 253
Educational seminar - 09/05/07; First consult - 09/17/07; Insurance rec'd submission - 10/01/07; Insurance approved - 10/05/07; Surgery - 11/21/07 (253 pounds of the morning of surgery); Mini goal met of down to 225 - 12/23/07.

    
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SanfordBariatric
SD
Member Since: 03/03/11
[Latest Posts]

Topic: RE: MEDICAID AND MEDICARE SURGEONS LIST!
At Sanford Hospital in Sioux Falls, Dr. Dennis Glatt and Dr. Donald Graham are BSCOE surgeons, so Medicare and Medicaid are accepted by them.  Dr. Curtis Peery is working on getting his Center of Excellence Surgeon Designation as well, and after that he will also be able to take Medicare/Medicaid patients. 
Hope this helps! 
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MJMully
Member Since: 01/26/07
[Latest Posts]

Topic: October 8th - WL Journey Education & Celebration (formerly "Fall Gala")
WL Journey Education and Celebration (formerly called "Fall Gala")

The day begins with our expanded 3rd annual WLS Educational Workshops, which will include breakfast and lunch.  The evening includes social hour, silent auction, dinner, music and dance. 

Everyone is invited to join us at this MINNESOTA event for ALL WLS patients, supporters, and the WLS medical community, as we continue to learn about and celebrate our new lives.   

Mark OCTOBER 8TH on your calendar and sign up ASAP in order to get your first choice of workshops and/or find a spot at the Celebration Dinner and Dance that evening.  

We will be at the Crowne Plaza Minneapolis West  Hotel & Conference Center in Plymouth, Minnesota (formerly Radisson). If you wish to stay overnight, guest rooms are available for a discounted rate. 

Check this website for more details and in order to sign-up:  www.allina.com/ahs/bariatric.nsf , look under "WL Journey".
 
We also have a website for information only. Check it out at: http://WLSFallGala.com.  We will be updating and adding more information to this site in the upcoming week.

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garrer
Member Since: 07/23/11
[Latest Posts]

Topic: RE: Do YOU want to Enlist but b/c of WLS you can't?

I don't know how you made out in this plight since it seems like no one responded to your post. I don't know if you realized that there is The Military Standards of Medical Fitness document of which lists items that need waivers (harder to get) and those that need a medical evaluation board review (easier to get). I also know that they state that WLS is not waiverable. However, I found a large discrepancy in the document. It states on page 5 that you would require a waiver for :

"i. Other. History of any gastrointestinal procedure for the control of obesity does not meet the standard. Artificial openings, including, but not limited to ostomy (V44), do not meet the standard."

However, they also state on page 22 that you only need an MEB (medical evaluation board) for

"e. Gastrectomy, subtotal, with or without vagotomy, or gastrojejunostomy, with or without vagotomy, when, in spite of good medical management, the individual develops “dumping syndrome” which persists for 6 months postoperatively; or develops frequent episodes of epigastric distress with characteristic circulatory symptoms or diarrhea persisting 6 months postoperatively; or continues to demonstrate appreciable weight loss 6 months postoperatively."

The procedure that they describe in this second item that only requires a review is essentially the same procedure that is performed in WLS, but not for weight loss. Hence, the military is discriminating against a surgery because it is for those who are obese. And that is inexcusable. It would be the same as saying that someone with high blood pressure could not get in because they are on medicine that now normalizes it. This is a blatant demonstration of discrimination against the obese who seek to cure their disease through surgery and the diet and exercise that follows. I am disgusted by this. The following website will direct you to the medical standards of fitness that are listed online so you can see that this is true! The military discriminated against gays, and now too the obese!
  The full document can found at:
www.army.mil/usapa/epubs/pdf/r40_501.pdf

So hopefully more people will respond and push this issue. Has anyone gotten anythwere with this?
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blazn963
Member Since: 08/07/09
[Latest Posts]

Topic: RE: Weight loss surgery support groups in RC
Dr. Trotter has a support group the third wed of the month at Black Hills Surgical Hospital.  Its for anyone preop postop.  Its at 6pm.  PM me if you want more information. 
        
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monymony
Member Since: 02/02/05
[Latest Posts]

Topic: New Support group!

The support group in Chadron, Nebraska is starting again. Those of you in Northwest Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming are welcome to attend. Adele Huls, RD PhD and I are the leaders. We are having our meetings the 3rd Wednesday of the month at the Chadron Community hospital in the conference room. Anyone who has had banding or is wanting information about surgery are welcome. Hope to see you there. Mona Urwin RN, CBN

Veteran Bandster 2002

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Jan S.
SD
Member Since: 09/25/02
[Latest Posts]

Topic: Weight loss surgery support groups in RC
I am looking for some sort of weight loss surgery support group in the Rapid City area. Is there a group for people who are like 5+ years post op? One that helps you deal with the new challenges that can occur years after? I am new to the area and could use the support to get back on track.. or at least an idea to help me get back on track-- need to drop like 20 # again.. Any suggestions or information would be wonderful..Thank You
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multiplepetmom
Member Since: 04/26/08
[Latest Posts]

Topic: RE: OT asking about Rapid City
well, the OT in my post heading was for off topic and now I can't remember what I said but I am a COTA - Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant.  I mostly have worked in nursing homes and enjoy that more than hospitals.

glad to hear your weight loss is going OK. I self paid for a VSG down in Mexico because I haven't had health insurance for a long time. oh, well, better to be thin and poor than fat and poor!!!  I have been at goal for awhile but hang out on OH everyday. it's a great source of info & I've met some nice peeps.

I am still job hunting but will probaby move West if possible - maybe Oregon or even Nevada!


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aprilalison
SD
Member Since: 02/10/11
[Latest Posts]

Topic: RE: OT asking about Rapid City
Sorry to hear the job didn't go through.  That's a bummer.  

Ha - yes, no mosquitos is NICE!  We LOVE to sit out on the back porch when it's nice and just enjoy the air and watch our dogs play like crazy. 

I'm not sure if OT is for Occupational Therapist or not, but in case it is and you're still looking, if I can be of any help, let me know.  I work for the largest employer in Rapid (Regional Health) who owns 5 hospitals and gobs of clinics.  I'm in the IT department, so not directly with patients or anything, but I know some people here - I've worked here for 6 yearsish. 

On the weight loss side, I was very lucky to get LapBand surgery when I did - I have some disc problems in my lower back and because of those expenses in that year, I'd paid my out-of-pocket maximum for our insurance for the year ($1700) and since my surgery was before the new fiscal year, I didn't pay a penny.  So far my entire cost has been the pre-diet food (about $100) and so far $20 for a fill (though I've had 6 fills now).  Not bad at all.  I'm 66 lbs down so far and thrilled!  I'll admit, there are some doctors in our "network" that I simply do not like at ALL, but our bariatric staff is freaking amazing.  They are so kind and so sweet and encouraging they make me look forward to my appointments. 

Good luck and I hope things are going well for you!   I wish you much luck in your journey! 

April



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multiplepetmom
Member Since: 04/26/08
[Latest Posts]

Topic: RE: OT asking about Rapid City
Hi April - actually the job never came through and I had forgotten all about this post but thanks for your reply.
 
very interesting, actually, I think it's cool you live in a log cabin and can still get pizza delivered!

I have visited the area and I know it's beautiful - I also remember camping in the Black Hills and there were no mosquitos, that was impressive!


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aprilalison
SD
Member Since: 02/10/11
[Latest Posts]

Topic: RE: OT asking about Rapid City
Hi there,
I don't know if you're still looking for a response or not, but thought I'd give you my impression.  I like Rapid City.  I moved here about 7 years ago after visiting for a family reunion.  The weather isn't bad for a northern place - Rapid City is in the banana belt so we get sheltered by the Black Hills from a lot of nasty weather and temperatures.  The next few days should be in the 40s and it's February!  We get our share of hot and cold, but it's not extreme and not too often. 
For me, the city is a great size - not too small, not too big.  We have lots of great restaurants because Rapid City is a tourist town for the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore, the Badlands and the Sturgis motorcycle rally (Sturgis is 1/2 hour away but most folks stay in Rapid.)  There are lots of nice lakes for boating or fishing and the people are nice.  I notice your username indicates you have pets.  If you have dogs, it's such a great area.  We have several leashless dog parks - the closest to me is about a mile away and has a lovely shallow brook for dogs to play in and lots of room to run and you'll find friendly people and dogs there.  The terrain is gorgeous - I live in a log cabin in a canyon with rock walls on all sides - just beautiful.  We get to see some wildlife - my husband pets the deer, but not the Bighorn Sheep!  We don't hear traffic, it's peaceful and the neighbors are nice and we're just a mile out of the city AND we can still get 2 different delivery pizzas out there.  There's lots of shopping, which is growing and there are lots of things to do.  Geocaching is awesome out here and a great way to get fun exercise. 
I hope this helps and if you have any questions, feel free to ask!

April
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LillyLou
Member Since: 07/29/10
[Latest Posts]

Topic: RE: Sleeves???

I am almost 8 weeks post sleeve and very close to 50 pounds gone.  I have heard great things about Trotter but found an incredible Dr. here in Sioux Falls.  Best decision of my life.  You will love it. I have Sanford insurance and it was not a problem to be approved for the sleeve at all.  I think they will be pushing for more sleeves and less lap bands.  Best of Luck to you.

        
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tinamarie47
Hot Springs, SD
Member Since: 01/22/10
[Latest Posts]

Topic: RE: Sleeves???
LillyLou...

I have completed all the requirements to submit so my DR is sending in paperwork in the next couple of weeks. I have federal BC/BS and he is hopeful the sleeve will be approved. I am seeing Dr Lee Trotter in Rapid City~he is FANTATIC! I could not have found a more caring doctor on the planet! My advice would be to not make a snap decision and shop your doctor because you need to establish a long term relationship with this person so trust is paramount. I'll keep you posted on whether BC/BS approves me or not. He said they are reluctant in SD for some reason. Prayer daily and blessings to you!
  I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. 
Be still and know that I am God.
           
    View more of my photos at ObesityHelp.com                
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monymony
Member Since: 02/02/05
[Latest Posts]

Topic: Upcoming Seminar in Rapid City

Come and join us for a FREE, no - commitment, educational seminar and learn about the Gastric lap banding.

The seminar will feature Dr. Jeff Holloway, Director of the bariatric program in Scottsbluff, Nebraska.
Dr. Holloway has performed more than 1400 bands since 2001 using the Lap Band, an Allergan product with low complication rates and exceptional weight loss.    

             When: October 28th, 2010 5:30pm
            Where: Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn
                       505 N. Fifth St. 
                       Rapid City, SD

For more information and/or to register call:

                       Mona Urwin, RN, CBN
                       Bariatric Program Coordinator
                       1-877-790-0006     


        or visit us on the web at rwmcweightlossoptions.com

Hope to see you there!

 

Mona








 

                           


Veteran Bandster 2002

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multiplepetmom
Member Since: 04/26/08
[Latest Posts]

Topic: RE: New to Rapid City
thank you, Maryann!


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mkieffer
Rapid City, SD
Member Since: 04/11/05
[Latest Posts]

Topic: RE: New to Rapid City
Hello,

I don't believe there are many places for rent that accept pets, your best bet would be to find a house, if you contact some realty agents you could probably find something expecially since they are small dogs.  I myself am not aware of anything.

Rapid City really is a great area to live in, we have the Black Hills which has some awesome hiking and winter sports if you are into that, plus the beauty of it here is great alone. It can be kind of expensive with the wages vs. cost of living, but that all again depend on your personal factors, we have never seen a problem with it, but I hear this from friends who have moved here from other places and those who lived here, moved away then came back.  So, I guess it all depends on what you are use to.

Let me know if you get to the area and if you have any other questions.

Maryann
 Maryann 
I will go through the valley if YOU want me to

HW SW   CW   GW
280/272/163/150 
Brachioplasty and Breast lift with augmentation May 28, 2008
Tummy Tuck January 26, 2009

    
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multiplepetmom
Member Since: 04/26/08
[Latest Posts]

Topic: OT asking about Rapid City
Hi Folks

I live in the NE panhandle and haven't had a full time job for years. (BOO!)  I have a house that I love and some roots here but may need to relocate anyway. how strange it would be to get health insurance.

I know of a job in Rapid City, so I'm looking for a bit of general info about the area from those who know it.

I can see the data on websites - general climate, price of houses, population, etc  - I am wondering what is your opinion of Rapid City?  how livable, how friendly, like that.

thanks for anything you can tell me!

hugs
Jackie

edited to add:  I grew up in northern Minnesota and have lived in Colorado which I LOVE but I don't find any full time jobs there. darn it!


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multiplepetmom
Member Since: 04/26/08
[Latest Posts]

Topic: RE: New to Rapid City
Hi Maryann

I live in the Nebraska Panhandle and am considering a job in Rapid City. my problem is I have a house here that I don't want to sell (at least right away) and 3 dogs.

do you think it is likely I could rent in the area with three dogs? I need a landlord who allows pets and a fenced yard, everything else would be negotiable.  I would be a responsible renter but many do not allow any pets let alone 3 dogs! (they are all small)

anything else you want to tell me about your city?


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