bad karma?? (long)

I've "dieted" my entire adult life...sometimes successfully.  I went from 190 to 120 in about 10 months one time, and kept it off for about 10 years.  I walked 30 minutes a day, and restricted myself to 1000 calories, all while under a doctor's care.  When I became menopausal (I guess - I've had a hysterectomy), I began to slowly gain weight, about a pound a month at first.  Then I all of a sudden started gaining about a pound a week, with no appearant change in diet or exersize.  I went back on my 30 minute walk/ 1000 calorie diet, but couldn't lose anything.  My marraige was tanking, and we were going through bankruptcy, so I became increasingly depressed.  My shrink prescribed Zoloft, and I went from 180 to 240 in 3 months.  I stopped the Zoloft, but have carried around the extra weight (sometimes up to 260) since.  I have trouble sleeping, tire easily, and have back and joint pains.  I desperately need this surgery (lapband for me), but all the set backs have me frustrated and wondering if maybe the fates aren't trying to tell me something... My doctor (Alan White) went through a couple of nurses, who couldn't seem to keep my records straight.  I was often treated rudely when I tried to find out when my surgery date would be after complying with all the tests, and weeks would go by only to be told there was yet another test I needed to take, or treatment I had to comply with.  Some appointments take weeks to get, and trying to get them in around my work schedule is often daunting.  My sleep study determined that I needed a CPAP machine at night, and I had to use it for 2 weeks before I could get a surgical date.  After 3 weeks (couldn't get an appointment any quicker), I found out that the data card in my machine was corrupt, so it's 3 more weeks with a new card before the pulmonologist will give me the o.k.    Now, I've been re-assigned to a new surgeon, because Dr. White up and left.  The new surgeon (his partner) is having to take on all his patients, and I still don't have a date, because his nurse has had to leave for a family emergency.  I've spent hundreds of dollars in co-pays, all of which become null after Dec. 31, 2007.  I've faced worse tragedies...both parents are dead, as are all my aunts and uncles, a cousin, and my sister.  My grandson was born with Cystic Fibrosis.  But this is all getting to me...I'm trying to hang in there, because I know how important this surgery is, but this has been going on since early May.  Say a prayer for me, to give me the strenghth to stick with it, and to get me a surgical date ASAP!! Best wishes to all, JP

JP -  I always try to look at delays or set backs as a way of God knowing what is best and that things happen in his time. I certainly have said a prayer for you, so keep the faith and be encouraged! Also, get in the drivers seat...call the office daily...be the squeaky wheel...get your date before the end of the year....you can do this! 

Thanks, Christina...I believe as you do, but sometimes I just need to hear it from someone else to get me back in control.  This is going to happen...I just have to do a little more pushing (and believing)!  I'm taking your advise, and I'm going to bug the heck out of that office!!! JP

Oh, Honey, I had Dr. White and know just how rude he can be.  I finally had my surgery but I am still on meds that keep me fighting weight gain.   Don't give up...Dr. Lucktong is a wonderful surgeon and if I'd have known in the beginning, I would have chose him anyway.  He is not rude or over demanding at all.  Keep me informed...do you know why Dr. White left?  I just got the letter that he no longer is in practice there.  You are in my thoughts and prayers... Hugs, Betsy

I've had a problem with their office also. I faxed in my paperwork in early August. I kept waiting for them to call to set up my appt. I would call them and leave a message with no return call ever. Finally last week I reached someone only to have them tell me that they did not have me on the list..meaning they do not show that they ever mailed me paperwork. The lady just didn't want to deal with me. I explained that obviously she did mail it because I was holding it. They took my message, called me back with a January 22nd appt. I'm so upset too. I did not want to wait that long. I am self employed and purchase a weight loss rider to my insurance in hopes of getting this within a year. Well, I'm just as close to Greensboro or Winston Salem. I think I may call a couple of Drs there tomorrow.  Although I've heard such great things about Lucktong.  I guess I just wanted to whine with you. Hope that's okay. Good Luck.

Definitely not bad karma.  Special work from the man above.  He does everything for a reason.  Count as a blessing, a bump in the journey and keep fighting for your health.