"When I first went to see the doctor, I was not really sure what I was getting into, but I was bound and determined to make a good choice that I could live with forever.rnHe was the most caring and profesional doctor I had ever met. He told my what his expectations were, and that he would not do the surgery if I did not follow hi guideline.rnSo, for the first time in my life, I listened, instead of doing what I wanted...and submitted my insurance for approval...rn34 days later I had the approval, and the next day I was scheduling my surgery.rnI had been a very thin child growing up.....and after I had 4 children, had a hysterectomy and than had Graves disease, where my metabolism compeletly changed at this point and what I had been doing for years, was now making me a very large person.rnThe staff addressed all my concearns with there honest opinions, the dietician was awesome and to the point....rnrnThe day of surgery was awesome....the doctor has the BEST bed side manner, and was extremly gentle and caring.rnrnI think the best part for me has been the after care. My monthly visit's are always interesting and fun, he makes me feel good every time I am there, and is very supportive.rnrnAllot of people, family included feel like having surgery is an easy way out, and for some, maybe that is true.But with the Lapband system, it is a \"tool\" the rest is up to you. rnrnI am doing things now that I hadn't dont in years. I rode in my first organized bike ride 21.5 miles 2 months after my surgery. I have since rode in 3 other organized rides, and plan to continue next year doing the same and riding as much as possible. It has brought my family closer together, and has given my children an example to live by, which in turn makes them healthier.rnrnI would not choose another surgeron, or staff of caring nurses and office managers. They are what allows the doctor to take care of the patients and not have too worry about the rest.rnrnThanks for all you have done for me and for my life...rnrnrnTraci Ketttingerrnweight in April 2007-335rnPre-Surgery- 317rnSurgery May 31, 2007rncurrently as of December 2007-254rnrn "
