Sharon T - PA

Hi, I was a member of this board earlier in the year when I was deciding what type of surgery to pursue. I had an open DS on 7/11/05. I am very happy with my choice and have been doing quite well. If you are interested in learning more about the DS, I would suggest you go to www.duodenalswitch.com. There are several regular Canadian posters, although most of them came to the states for their DS as I understand it is very difficult to get this surgery in Canada with very long waiting lists. Since my surgery, I've lost 92 pounds and I continue to lose. I decided against the band because it wasn't right for me. YMMV. Lots of luck in your decision making. Sharon Open DS 7/11/05 Dr. Peters 272/180/140

If this comes through twice, sorry!!!! I've been lurking around here following your saga...just wanted to say congratulations!! I know how much you've wanted this. I've received a surgery date, and insurance approval for my DS....I will be switched on July 11th Just wanted to wish you well with your newly-banded life!!! Sharon

My condolences to Carolyn's family - what a tragic end to such a beautiful, supportive and loving person. Sharon

My appointment yesterday was with the DS surgeon and that's where I'm headed. I'm grateful for the referral, I just think this is the right path for me. Sharon

If you've followed any of my posts you'll know I was still debating about my course of surgery - and I've decided to go in a different direction than the band. All of you have been really a tremendous source of information and support and wish all of you the best of luck on the losing side. Sharon

Oh, I'm hoping to be one.....just got my appointment for my psych consult and she's local, liked her a lot. Whoohooo moving right along.

Glad it went well for you Crystal.....lots of happy losing ahead! Sharon

ACK Denied? Based on what???? I'm so sorry, you were so ready!!!! Don't give up yet!!!! Sharon

Ok even pre-banding this made me laugh. I've often talked at inanimate things that tick me off LOL. Nice to know you can keep a sense of humor about something that seems fairly icky!! Sharon

I'm all about averages - I will keep that in mind when I get to join you all on the losing side.

Thanks to Alex for the referral!! I may lose an additional hour driving but for piece of mind? Priceless I also spoke with the initial office today (they called me). Seems after I cranked a bit about not calling my insurance, they did, and there is coverage in my plan (ok so they gain a point for this!!!). Told them I wasn't happy and was consulting another practice - she was "shocked" but quite nice about it. We'll see, I haven't closed the door just in case. Thanks to all of you who posted to my original plea! Sharon

Glad you are ok. The NE weather does really suck. I'm so ready for spring...bring IT ON!!!!!!!!!!!!

LOL you sure do you have your share of challenges....I'm trying to ignore most of them until I make up my mind!!! From the DS perspective, I figure I'm pretty stinky now so maybe it would counteract???

Seems like that's the surgery with the most gas/odors as far as I can tell. And not all of them have the ongoing issues, although on the DS board there are many creative ideas to getting rid of the smell in the house. I have to admit it's one of the things making me lean away from it.... good luck deciding Lisa.

Whooohooooo have a great banding day! See you on the losing side! Sharon