Hello Newbie Here

Hello everyone, I'm a relative newbie on this website, and especially to this board.  I am anxiously awaiting a surgery date and reading all of your posts to get an idea of what to expect and the best ways of handing it.  So much knowledge here, I'm impressed!!!

My name is Mary, and I have completed almost all the pre--surgery requirements.  I met with a nurse practioner this morning in my surgeon's office.  (Association of South Bay Surgeons, Dr. Aileen Takahashi)  It was a very good experience.  I have lost more than the required pre-surgical weight, have completed all testing except the psych evaluation, and have a regular schedule of exercise.  Needless to say I got the "good girl" endorsement today.  I am scheduled  for a physical the end of the month, and the pre-surgery class and meeting with the surgeon in May.  Surgery in June, pending the insurance approval.

I so appreciate your input.  Like many newbies I'm hungry for information.  And looking for a community of people with whom I can relate and be on a level playing field.  Thank you for being who you are!!!  Believe me, I appreciate all your posts, and I'm learning.  Walkin' the road together, Mary

Hi Mary,

I was a newbie not that long ago, and I followed this board for three months leading up to my surgery. I learned so much from so many, and now I am one of so many who can offer help, advice and inspiration to newer newbies.

We have a wonderful support group in Long Beach and you are very close to us. We meet at Starbucks on the last Saturday of every month at 10 o'clock. Jean L usually posts the reminders, so look for her on the boards. There are a lot of us in this area and our coffeehouse sometimes has over 20 people. I come when I can, but Jean and Monica and others are there almost always. If you have questions you want answers to, just drop me a line anytime.

I hope to see you at the end of the month. lf you want to get together before, just say the word. I am a teacher and we have Spring Break coming soon.

nancy

Thank you Nancy for taking the time to post.  I love the idea of meeting the group, and you, and hope I can make it.  I'll put it on my calendar, but can't promise.  That's the weekend one of my friends here is having surgery, and I've promised to be her angel. 

Hope to see you in the near future.  Again, many thanks for your response and kind invitation.  Walkin' together, Mary

Welcome to the board Mary ask away!! everyone is great here !

Thanks Rina, its particularly fun to communiate with people near me.  I hope all is well with you in your journey.  Walkin' the road together, Mary

Mary,Welcome to the Cali board and congratulations on beginning your journey.  You've come to a great board for support, caring folks and help whenever you need it.  Many of us have put lots of work into blogs to help others on their journeys as well.  Please feel free to ask questions, we're here for you.Hugs,Barb

Thank you so much Barb, I do so appreciate your taking time to post.  I especially appreciate the blogs and availability to answer questions.  I feel like there is a terrific support system here, and am so grateful for it.  Blessings on your journey, Mary

Hello Mary!
I would like to say WELCOME and CONGRATULATIONS! 
I wish you the best and be careful here because im totally addicted to this site now! lol I think it has saved my life!
Good luck!
RObin

Hi Robin,
I can see this is going to be fun!!!  A wonderful group of people all around, with warm greetings and open arms.  Sigh, it's 'home'.  Thank you for your post!!  Walkin' the road with you, Mary

Hey Mary...welcome to the boards and I have to say...love love the board pic!!!

I am telling you the time will fly by for sure and I am glad you got your good girl okay!!! If you are like me...you wanted your surgery yesterday and for sure I do not have a lot of patience about waiting....not one of my fortes. Better yet....I was pissed I did not wake up skinny! LOL

Stick around and put some velcro on your butt because this is a great place for support and lots and lots of 411!

Congratulations on making the right decision on leading a healthy life!