Mrs Sabre

PCP sent a letter requesting approval for surgery. UHC sent request over a week ago for additional information. I called the PCP's office this afternoon, and our guess is the letter from UHC went straight to the doctor, as it's not on/in my record yet. Fortunately, the gal who processes these requests seems really nice. She'll take a faxed copy of the UHC request for additional information from me to expedite the process. May God grant me patience!

Congratulations! That's truly awesome! After smoking 1+ packs a day for 21 years, I quit Dec. 27, 1998 using the Nicoderm patch and Zyban. I'd be lying if I said I'm never tempted, but I treat it like any other addiction; I know I'm just one puff away from a pack-a-day habit, and I just don't do it. God Bless!

Awesome!!!

Congratulations Dianne! I look forward to seeing less of you at our next meeting

Viggo Mortensen Chris Noth LL Cool J

It was awesome meeting you all! I had such a great time, and really look forward to our next meeting too. I hope I have a date by then. All but one pair of capri pants fit me too; thanks so much for the clothes! I look forward to the day I can bring a box of clothes in for others to wear. Dianne & Loretta, my prayers go with you this week!

Whether 11 or 11:30, I'll be there.

As with every belief system, there are always those who make the rest look bad. It's unfortunate that someone treated you wrong. Personally, I'm proud to be a Christian (Free Will Baptist), saved by the grace of God through Jesus' death & resurrection. I'll only witness to those who ask. I may or may not agree with everyone's views, but I respect their right to have them and not agrue if I disagree.

I am an accountant. I do management reporting for the corporate trust area of a large bank.

Welcome! I'm just getting started and don't have a date yet.

Congratulations! That's awesome!

Congratulations! I'm jealous

Congratulations! That's awesome

Starr Yes, I have UHC - Choice through Wachovia Bank, and according to their website, he is a providing "specialist" physician. I haven't gotten approved yet, so I haven't actually seen Dr. Kuwada yet; so I can't give you any first impressions, etc.

FruitieGal - Really? Please do tell; Dr. Kuwada is the surgeon to whom my PCP is prepared to refer me.

Dr. Timothy Kuwada does lap-band at CMC. I don't know if he goes to Presbyterian or not. I got his name from Inmed (spelling[?], the makers of lap-band), and the weight loss specialist I saw last week knows of him and approved. Maybe this is an option for you?

I'm just getting started, and have already decided only to tell choice people - family, closest friends, and work folks on a need to know basis (cause of all the appointments). Although I'm feeling really optimistic, until my insurance actually approves me for surgery, there is no reason to tell anyone else. Too many people have watched my weight yo-yo over the last 10 years and climb especially high over the last 2 for me to tell. If/when I'm banded and losing weight, if someone asks how I'm doing it, then I'd tell them. For me personnally, right now it's just too soon.

Who is your doctor?

Dani - My PCP referred me to a weight management specialist, who I saw yesterday. I had a sleep study done 5 years and 40 pounds ago. I had minimal apnea at that time, but with the additional weight, they've concurred that I should have another. Significant apnea or not, it would also confirm that my restless leg/PLMD medication is addequate. How long have you used the CPAP? Have you been banded? Is your apnea expected to improve with weight loss?

I'm only telling a few people, mostly closest friends & family because I'm so early along in the process. I'm telling co-workers on a need to know basis. So far everyone has been very supportive. I hope that doesn't change. I agree with Keri, we get enough of that from strangers without hearing it from "friends".

Congratulations! I'm jealous

Kim - I've sent an e-mail. I don't know how effective it is through this site, but we'll find out.

I've put it on my calendar and will definitely try to make it. If everyone eats with reckless abandon before surgery, then I'm also sure I'm not the only one who fills embarrassed at what/how much they eat? I am already looking at my food differently. You know how Chinese restaurants always have really BIG portions? I sat eating my lunch yesterday thinking how one box of Chinese take out could last me an entire week after being banded. I'm going to save a ton on food, and hopefully spend it all on new clothes

Kim, how long did it take from start to surgery for you? OK, now I'm excited! From those who have UHC and work at Wachovia, it doesn't sound like I'll have any problems. Now I just have to wait for the OK. Yippee!

Thanks for all of the input, and I really appreciate the support! I checked my schedule, and barring the unforeseen I may be able to make the Sept. 24th meeting at Friday's. Does everyone eat with reckless abandon before their surgery? At the rate I'm going, I may hit the BMI 40 mark before I get to surgery.