Susan L.

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12/18/2008
I got to Vanderbilt about 30 minutes early. I was pleasantly surprised that when I arrived they had complimentary valet parking. It was nice to be able to just jump out of your car and hit the elevators to the weight loss clinic. When I first arrived, they weighed me and took my picture ( YUCK! I always look like I am drunk or drugged up in all my picture)
The staff so far seems nice but in a hurry. I am not sure if they had a lot of patients booked that day or not. I met with one of the student doctors, he seemed very nice and we went over the questionnaire (about past medical diagnosis and medications)  that I filled out prior to the appointment. He was very informative but probably just needed a little more confidence in himself. I can totally relate!
I finally met Dr. Richards. He seems like a very competent doctor. We discussed whether the band or RNY would be better for me. I have decided on the RNY. I just cant stand the thought of the band and port being in my body. Dr. Richards told me that he wanted me to have and endoscopy done because I have been diagnosed with acid reflux in the past. Great - a scope down my throat - just what I always wanted.  While the thought of it doesn't thrill me, I am glad that he is taking precautions so he can take care of me to the best of his ability. He sent me down stairs to have a lab panel ran, I wonder what that will reveal? I am very nervous about this but if it means getting my surgery then I will. He told me that he wants to see me again in 2 months.
I met with Cynthia, the insurance specialists, she told me that surgery is approved for me but I will have to complete a 6 month supervised diet. SHIT! SHIT! SHIT! My whole life has been a diet roller coaster! I'll have to wait 6 months before surgery. That really bites!  Anyway, I'll pull myself up by the bootstraps and go forward with the diet supervision thing. I will try to learn as much as possible.  At least this time it will be with nutritionist every month.
I haven't told many people about this surgery, I just don't want to deal with a bunch of negative comments. I am concentrating on "me" for once. I just want to feel better, look better and just plain old be better.

I attended the WLS seminar at Vanderbilt on 11/11/08. I really had not made up my mind.  I will forge ahead with this surgery. Some of the information that I gained there blew my mind. It is amazing to me that quite a few co-morbidity's disappear after surgery.

I have decided on the gastric bypass and have scheduled a consult with the surgeon and dietitian for next month. I will be in the process of gathering medical records and a letter of recommendation from my PCP.

I have contacted my insurance company and will submit all information for approval.  I am praying and keeping my fingers crossed that all will go well and I will be approved without much hassle.