New to the site!!!

Hello my name is Jennifer. I am a 31 yo married mom of 2 wonderful children. I was recently told that I am a candidate for the bypass/lapband surgery. I have degenerative disc disorder and severe asthma and GERD. I am about 180lbs over weight. I am looking into meeting with a support group and obtaining some information about the surgeries. I am going to be attending a seminar at Bon Secours Health Center today which will hopefully answer any questions or concerns that I have. I am still quite nervous about going under the knife. I was curious as to how long does it take to get the go ahead to get the surgery? My insurance has said that it is covered and I believe I have good enough reasons to get the surgery. I have been told that if I do not loss this weight quickly or have the surgery within the next 2 years I will not be able to walk again because of the damage done to my back due to a MVA.

Hey, Jennifer. Welcome to the site. Everyone's story is different but you should hear a lot of good things around here and at the seminar. Dr. Spencer and Dr. Moore are fabulous! They are very educated and do a great job with the surgery. They are very thorough and their staff is excellent. You sound like you would definitely qualify. I went in for my consultation on June 15th of last year and I was on the table on July 19th. That is pretty abnormal but it can happen. You'll have to go through a series of tests, but they are all well worth it. Just take a pen and paper, get a list of questions you have, and go with an open mind. Good luck and take care, Amber

Welcome Jennifer!! Having this surgery will be the single best thing you have ever done for yourself and your health! You sound like you more than qualify. It also depends on your healthcare provider just how fast you get surgery. Some require you to have a 6 month medically supervised diet and others don't. Mine didn't. I went for my consult on Jan 11th and had my approval and surgery on Feb 22nd so it was pretty fast once it got going. I do not regret the surgery for one second! Take care and keep us informed and ask any questions you have and someone here will be able to answer it based on their experience. Jackie

Welcome Jennifer this surgery has changed my life in more ways than one. You can read my profile. I to have the back issues on my way today to see the spine surgeon for the 2nd round of advice today. Wish you all the best keep us posted....

Hi Jennifer, Looks like your questions got answered so I just wanted to welcome you to the boards. The majority of the folks here are RNY (gastric bypass) Therere are pre ops (me) and post ops. There is also a lap-band forum. I have learned so much from everyone here and have made some good friends. Good luck Jen

Hi Jennifer....Welcome to a terrific board. There are alot of wonderful people here who have alot of information and support for you. Hang in there and we will all help you through your journey...You will make some wonderful friends here... Hugs, Betsy

Hi Jennifer and welcome to the VA board. Being nervous is absolutely normal. A support group and/or web forums are definitely great places to get information. As for the process for surgery, every surgeon, insurance, etc is different. Some people get through really quickly and some have to jump hoops and wait awhile. Don't get discouraged or overwhelmed. We are here for support, questions, venting, celebrating. Courtney

HI Jennifer, Welcome to the site! I'm farily new here myself and be assured that everyone is very helpful! I had lapband surgery at VCU the beginning of November so if you have any specific questions about my lapband surgery, since I'm a newbie, don't hesitate to send me a private message or post on the board. You have several options for surgery and these boards will be great to help you in your research. Take care, Denise