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Surgeon TestimonialAviv Ben-Meir, M.D.My first meeting with Dr. Ben-Meir was in February, 2007. My first impression was that he was a kind, self-confident surgeon. He answered my questions, did not rush me and when leaving the office, stated to me that he would take good care of me. After surgery, I saw him twice before leaving the hospital. Every precaution was taken to ensure an uneventful surgery..to reduce complications which could occur. He emphasized aftercare, made certain I understood everything and was ALWAYS VERY PLEASANT! A+ for surgical competence and bedside manner. I would recommend him to anyone contemplating RNY or lapband surgery. rnrnOver all, I felt they have a very good structured program, however since I wound up having to go self pay, I think was a bit of a wrench in the \"normal works\". There were times that I felt my case specialist took too long in addressing my calls, following up on my appeal, and at times almost seemed like she had no clue who I was. I understand there are hundreds of people that come and go through their doors, but let's face it, we want and need to feel that they know about \"my case and my medical history\".rnrnThe PAT went flawlessly as did the group meeting with the dietician. They provided detailed printed materials needed for Pre and Post-op, addressed risks of the surgery and even though you left overwhelmed, you left with a confidence.rnrnWhen I asked the cost of the total package to have this surgery, I was told $4,000 for the surgeon, $15,450 for the hospital which was all inclusive, and a bill for anesthesia approx. $2,000-$4,000 and would be discounted if paid immediately. If any problems were to happen, of course there would be additional charges. 6 weeks after my surgery, bills started rolling in above and beyond those quoted to me, bills for various doctors, and then the mother load of a bill came in for $9,850 ABOVE AND BEYOND WHAT I ALREADY PAID! I feel I was grossly misinformed! Now I have to figure out how to come up with $10,000! I am very upset about all of this!rnrnUPDATE 12-12-07 rnrnGREAT NEWS! They screwed up in sending the request for coverage to my insurance. This was for the charges I paid for PRIOR TO SURGERY. Thank goodness.......I now can get on with my life and the holidays without the worry of how I was going to cough up another $10,000.rn Member Interests
- Computers & Internet - Just love my computer- searching the web for everything I need or want
- Crafts - Love making things, however my hands do not let me anymore
- Games & Entertainment - Cards, computer games & board games
- Health - Diabetes, 2 heart attacks, HBP, the list goes on......
- Hobbies - Swimming, wildlife, taking pictures, ebay addict & my pets
- Pets - 3 loving cats, Sabrina, Sasha & Isis
- Fish - Have a pond and just had babies, 5th generation native to pond -15 Total
- Movies - Love them all!
- Music - Country, rock, pop, hip-hop & alternative
- Married - My wonderful loving husband for almost 32 years-best thing ever!
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6 months out - 1 day after my birthday! on April 23, 2008 3:28 pm
Well here I am 6 months since my surgery!!!!!
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April Support Group Meeting on April 22, 2008 5:06 am
The April Support Group Meeting I think was a success! Considering it was the first real nice "Spring" evening, temperatures in the 60's and with daylight savings......still have 12 members that attended. Check out the pictures of our meeting, what a good looking group! http://www.obesityhelp.com/group/CWLSSG/
I had several people notify me that they were attending, however...you know how it goes. Anyway, our guest speaker was Peter Valencic, dietitian from Cleveland Center of Bariatric Surgery (St. Vincent Charity Hospital). He lectured on the importancy of nutrition and how to read labels. He also introduced SmartForme protein products, offering samples and had them available to purchase. I must say some were very tasty!
We had 4 new members who attended, Stacy, Lyn, Judy and Terry, whom will be having his surgery in the near future! Congrats Terry.
I look forward to seeing my members every month to marvel at their weight loss, talk about what we have experienced and they are like family.......well to me anyway!
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6 MONTHS CHECK UP! on April 22, 2008 4:38 am
Hard to believe that as of April 15th, 6 months has passed since my surgery.
I had my follow-up appointment, and while I do not know what my lab results are as of yet, overall the doctor seemed to be pleased with my progress. At first I was upset when he told me I only lost 43% of my excess weight to date and should be around 50% at 6 months out. So of course my first question is WHY? I had been following all the directions to the letter, eating my protein, watching the carbs, fats, eating my veggies and fruits....then he finally said, Oh, you are diabetic, right? HELLO, yes!........and still on insulin injections, He then stated insulin hinders weight loss, which is the reason why for the slower weight loss.
He suggested that I check with my local doctor about changing to oral meds for the diabetes.....which would be great, providing they do not interfere with my heart (I have had 2 heart attacks and have 2 stints in place) and that they do not interfere with my kidneys. So I have an appointment on the 25th to see my doctor and check on changing my meds.
I was thrilled with the 72 pound loss even though not 50% of my excess weight! I feel SO MUCH BETTER, look a bit better, (I'd have to undergo a complete makeover to achieve looking good..lol), and so thankful for this wonderful tool....gaining a second chance at life!
I feel very fortunate and thank GOD every day that he saw me through the surgery and have had no complications to date. When I read the stories of others who have had problems, some quite serious, my heart goes out to them. We all know how they felt, the reasons for the surgery, then to have to experience complications....well I cannot imagine. My prayers go out to all those who need them.
Bye for now!
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