Southern Illinois Users

How many of you have actually had success with this and had the surgery? Where is the closest place I can get this done? (I'm in Murphysboro.) Better yet, how do I even get started? I'm interested in Lap-Band. I have Illinois Family Care for my insurance. I've tried changing my eating habits, excercise (including joining a gym) and nothing is working. Thanks!!

I live in New Baden and I am going through NewStart in St. Louis. You can also go to Washington University in St. Louis. I am actually getting RNY but I know that they do do the lap-band there.

Hi I am also in Murphy and I am going thru Dr. LaTorre in St. Charles Mo. They have some information and where you can get a packet on their website (if you like) their website is http://www.depaulweightloss.com/internet/home/depaulweightloss.nsf good luck

Hey! I'm surprised to see someone local! I contacted DePaul and they don't accept my insurance, unfortunately. I'm going to have to keep looking around. I'd hate to have to go all the way to Chicago (or farther.) I have three toddlers at home (ages 1 1/2, and twin boys about to turn 3) so I can't leave for too long.

Hello I know you !!!! I just happen to stumble upon this and saw you .Im sandra remember you came over and got some clothes from me for you little boy. Im in Herrin? Im also loking into this surgery right now. Depending on your insurance. Lourdes in Ky does this surgery there. But they wont accept my ins so Im looking into sprongfield. I have to call them tomorrow I think its the closest to us.

Hey Sandra! I'm having such a hard time. I also contacted Lourdes, and it was a no-go. Please let me know if you find a place!

Thanks for your reply! What can you tell me about NewStart? I'm having a really hard time finding someone who will take Illinois Medicaid, and I think I'd prefer to go to St Louis.

I don't know if they take Medicaid but you can always call and ask. They have been the best I think. I got a bad vibe even from the place that I work at. I went to NewStart and they helped me with all of the paperwork and once you are approved you get a surgery date within the month if you want one. They are always there to answer your questions and all of your pre-op testing is done in one day at the same place. It has been good so far. I will have to keep you updated with after the surgery. I am on the 2 week liquid diet right now. I will be happy when my date is here.

Well, there are many successful people that have had various forms of WLS in the state. I am not in your area but a lot further up north. My husband and I both had open RNY and are almost 4 years out each. My doctor does lapband and has many successful patients that I know personally via our support group. I saw that you had a couple responders from your area. I just wanted to let you know that there are many patients all over IL and the country (just go to the main board and you will see a lot of PO patients) that are successful. Take care and good luck. Chris

Hi, I'm from Sparta and I'm in search of a doctor also but I started with my insurance company first, because they play a major role in the success of this venture. You primary care also can be a great help Audrey