Weight Loss Surgery Directory

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Before & After

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Goals

Keep my weight off, and stay healthy

17 People
 in progress, 
1 Person
 achieved this

To be an excellent WLS Support Group Leader

0 People
 in progress, 
1 Person
 achieved this

Be confident and have people respond favorably

0 People
 in progress, 
1 Person
 achieved this

TO EAT HEALTHY AND MAKE GOOD FOOD CHOICES

9 People
 in progress, 
1 Person
 achieved this

go up a flight of stairs without having to pause at the top to catch my breath.

11 People
 in progress, 
20 People
 achieved this
View Other Goals
Surgeon Testimonial

Aviv 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!

Latest Surgery Support Comments

  • Comment by AnnieofCalif on 11/4/07 8:53 pm
    Congrats, Teresa, on your surgery. I was reading some of your blog & see that you have a good handle on that "bullet"!!! I wish you all the best as you make new milestones & healthy milestones. Regards, Annie
  • Comment by badamczyk on 10/23/07 8:24 am
    Ah, I wanted to post on your surgery page, and I see you already have some great comments! I am glad you are now on the Loser's Bench. You save a spot for me, because I will be there before you know it. I am THRILLED you are doing well. I am praying for your continued recovery and hope all continues to go as well for you. God bless. . .and lotsa hugs! Beth
  • Comment by Kristie T. on 10/15/07 2:59 am
    Congratulations on becoming a LOSER...Sending you the Best of Wishes for your upcoming surgery....I'll be Thinking of you and Praying for you.
Click here for the surgery support page
Terrib's Blog
Terrib's Blog

Where Has The Time Gone?
posted on 12/23/08 9:48 am
Here is is almost Christmas, and have no idea where this year has gone! 

I celebrated my 1 year anniversary October 15th.  It just so happened to be the same night I hosted my Support Group Meeting.  What better way than to celebrate with my members.

One of my members, Cindy Cugini

presented me with a gorgeous Savorski Crystal bracelet she designed, which I will cherish the rest of my life. Theresa Fontes another member gave a cash donation to assist with the various expenses to conduct the monthly meetings. 

I am so grateful to have such marvelous members!   Thank you all!

As of today, December 23, 2008....I am 3 pounds UNDER the goal weight set by my surgeon!    I am thrilled to have reached my goal, and continue to follow the strict guidelines in order to maintain.  I go to the YMCA 5-6 times per week.  I believe that exercise has been fundamental to my success.  

Throughout this past year, many wonderful things have taken place in my life.  I have been taken off ALL of my heart medicines, blood pressure medicines, pain medications and have been taken off insulin and switched to Byetta and Januvia.  My sugars have gone from over 250 to between 89-130.

I have been blessed with meeting very special people who have been very supportive, which in turn gives me confidence I need to continue. 

TO EVERYONE, HAVE A BLESSED HOLIDAY AND A HEALTHY AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!


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