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I'm scheduled for Pre-Op testing tomorrow. Please, keep me in prayer. Dee

I just heard about Post-Op injections of B-12 and an anti-clotting medication. Does anyone know about these injections? Are patients required to administer the injections themselves? If so, please give information.  I've been to several meetings including primary care visits and a surgery consult and they never discussed the injections. Dee

I met with the Bariatric Psychiatrist yesterday. My insurance requirements are very stiff. The psychiatrist appeared very professional and cordial. She obtained information re: family and food relationship history. In additon, she cleared me for the surgery at her level. Isn't that wonderful information?? (Yeah!!) I'm so excited and I look forward to my Christmas present. I also received a call from the hospital and I'm scheduled to receive Pre-Op testing on Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2007, at 7:15AM. How will I get there so early?? No, problem. I will meet her at night for testing if she scheduled it. (Smile) I plan to call the Bariatric Center to see if it's too soon to schedule a Pre-Op class date/surgery date. I'm on my way. Dee

I met with Dr. Mattar, WLS surgeon, and the dietician, Ruthanne. They were wonderful. The dietician completed an assessment and surgeon completed another assessment and physical examination. In addition, the surgeon answered all my questions and discussed the risk and benefits of WLS. I chose Dr. Mattar, Medical Director of the Clarian Bariatric Center, to complete my surgery, Iasked Dr, Mattar if he would be able to complete my surgery. He  replied, "Of course, I'll complete the surgery in December 2007". I'll complete my Psychiatric Consult tomorrow at 9:00AM. In addition, I was referred for pre-testing by next week. I'M SO EXCITED!!! Thanks for all the prayers. Dee 

I participated in the WLS Public Seminar. The information was redundant. However, the initial speaker preferenced her speech by saying that all the surgeon are booked for 2007. I attempted to ignore the speaker's comments because I wanted to focus on the seminar and the information. I'm not sure if God is testing me or if I will not be able to have the surgery. I have 2 issues re: insurance coverage and continuing my graduate studies beginning in January 2008. My next scheduled appointment is with the surgeon, Dr. Mattar, is on Monday, November 19, 2007, at 1:30PM. I'm required to complete a 2 hour enrollment packet on the internet before the appointment or they will reschedule the appointment with the surgeon. I've completed approximately 4 modules on the enrollment. I have to get focused and complete the remaining modules. 

Please, keep me in prayer. Dee

I spoke to the coordinator at the Bariatric Center on Monday and she advised me that I may not receive my surgery before January 1, 2008. (Insurance Change) However, she did schedule me for a Public Meeting on Thursday, 11/16/07, Surgeon's Consult on Monday, 11/19/07, and another Psychological Evaluation on Tuesday, 11/20/07. The blessed thing is that I received the doctor of my choice and he is also the most experienced surgeon on the team. In addition, many patients boast about his professionalism and caring/committed spirited to his patient's and their well being. My only other concern is asking God for strength if I don't receive the surgeon. The new insurance providers have not advised my agency or it's members of our type of coverage and whether or not bariatrics is amoung the paid treatments. I'm blessed to received so many appointments back to back, but I'm optimistic about the surgery if and when it will occur. Dee

I, finally, received word on Friday that I was approved for a Surgery Consult. I hope to know more soon. Thanks to all that kept me in prayer because I gave up over the past couple of weeks. Dee

I, finally, spoke to the psychologist this evening. She advised me that she has not completed my evaluation and that she may have it completed by next week. Based upon her statement and the additional testing that is required, I don't think I'll complete my surgery before 12/31/07. According to previous patients of the center, it takes approximately 3-4 weeks of additional testing before you're allowed to see the surgery. Omce you see the surgery, he may schedule you for additional testing and/or screening which could take approximately 1-2 weeks. Therefore, I'm hard pressed to believe that I will have the surgery before the new year and the change in my insurance providers. This is very discouraging. I completed the first portion of my evaluation in May 2007 and I completed the final portion of my evaluation in June 2007. What was the psychologist doing with the evaluation for the past 3-4 months? The psychologist, repeatedly, advised myself and other bariatric patients that she does not agree with the surgery because most patients don't change internally and end up either gaining the weight back or requesting revisions. During my session, I asked about other long term  solution other than WLS that provides a similar results. She became stoick and appeared unable to answer my question because many patients have tried several short term remedies with temporary results and either regained the weight and a few extra pounds or worsened existing medical conditions. 

I'm just venting my frustration with the entire process. I never new that I would be faced with so many obstacles when I surrendered and asked for help.  

My faith is dwindling............

Dee

As of today, I haven't received word re: surgery approval. I refuse to hound or beg these providers to do their jobs. It shouldn't be this hard to receive help. The clock is ticking due to the change in insurance on December 31, 2007. Dee