A Day of Appointments

May 18, 2009

Today I had my first set of appointments with the surgeon, dietician, nurse, and the psych.  I'm so excited.  Everything went very well.  The only blip, and I hope it's not going to be a big blip, is I was honest about smoking pot, or the fact that I quit on March 1st.  The psych was concerned about addiction transference, especially as this is a big problem with WLS recipients.  She was concerned that not only was I having to give up pot, but also my old way of eating.  She said this would not stop me from having the surgery, but that she might send me for additional counselling (2 to 3 sessions) to make sure I had my head screwed on straight.  This was a major prick in the balloon feeling, but she did say that after the meeting that she really didn't think additional counselling sessions would be necessary.  I don't have an issue with doing the extra counselling....so long as it doesn't hold up my surgery date.  I really really want to have the surgery in July and not have to wait until October.

But back to the good stuff.  I like my surgeon.  He's up front about everything, doesn't ramble on which is a good thing as I don't need a bunch of hand-holding.  Just give me the facts and tell me what's going to happen, the risks & the rewards.  I also like the fact that the other bariatric surgeon in the office assists with my surgeon - they assist each other on the surgeries, so it's kind of like having 2 surgeons working on me at once.

The office staff is GREAT!!!  After only being to the office once a month ago for the info seminar, the program coordinator recognized me when I came in the office and greeted me by name.  I was amazed.  I had spoken with her a couple times on the phone, but for her to remember my name even without hearing me speak, was incredible.  She's so outgoing and freindly and has alot of patience and never rushed me with any of my questions. 

The RN had also had WLS so it was great knowing that someone who's had the surgery was also working there.  Makes a person think that they trust the facility to work there.  My surgeon assisted on her surgery, so it's good to have that first-hand recommendation.

So onwards and upwards.  Friday I will get the confirmation if I'm a candidate or not.  I'm not worried about that as I think I'm a good candidate.  Just have to wait and see if I have to do the extra counselling.

So far, still on track for July surgery.

Woo-hooooooo :)

Cheerio

Laurie

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