Thank you Momfirst-the orientation was very imformative.  I am using Johnny's profile journal as support during this journey.  I need to loose 25 lbs, and I am on my way.  I have the first appt with my Surgeon on 12/15, hope to have it down by then. 
John did promise us all that if God let him he would assist us in our journey-and I feel him there every day, as you should. 
Thank you for reaching out-do you go to a support group here in Livermore?  I know there is one at Kaiser on the 3rd Tues in the evening, open to everyone. 

Thanks so much for reaching out to me.

 If you need speakers please let me know I love to share my story. I live in Cameron park and usually drive to sf to speak at Wls groups. But I'd love to help locally too :)

Absolutely Kaiser is practicing malpractice! Kasier told me it's not Kaiser, it's the surgeons who will not do the surgery, unless the patient loses 10%.  It took about a year after I started the apeal process.  I also tried to lose the wieght for over a year, and nothing.....I thought I would never have gotten this surgery, but thanks to a OH member, she posted and told me about DMHC.............My surgen said my surgery was text book perfect, im almost 4 years out and still have my weight off....Im between 125 - 130 lbs............

Good for you!

There is no evidence-based reason to make people lose 10% of their weight. Now, some people find it easy so it's easier to just lose it than to fight, but I know someone who took FOUR YEARS to lose theirs. That's 4 years they could have been enjoying better health and a better quality of life and I think it's medical malpratice on Kaiser's part to force everyone to lose 10% of their body weight.

I would go see your doctor. Pain is not normal. It could be so many things. I would not want to guess.

Good luck.

Take care.