MommaZ

What I asked myself was ~ would I have a perfectly healthy kidney removed to improve the chances of survival for someone I love? (yes) Then why wouldn't I remove part of a healthy stomach to improve my chance of survival?

I hope it's a short wait for approval!!!

For me, it isn't really an option. Had my visit with the vascular surgeon today and he said my surgeon won't do my surgery without it - due to my history. I had a problem with a high number of PE's a few years ago while I was battling Leukemia. I was on Lovenox for almost a year, and will most likely go on it for awhile after surgery. Since the biggest risk of clots is in those who've had them before, and I had such a large amount of them, I'm very high risk. I'm actually a bit relieved, as clots are something I was really concerned about. But your info is great! And you're so right - it's always best to question and not just go with the flow. I've never heard anyone say they researched an important matter too much!!

I have an appointment with the vascular surgeon tomorrow... was wondering if anyone else has had/will have filters placed before surgery?

Glad to see there's so many of us on this end! I had my 1st visit with the surgeon on 7/11. I've already had my 1st NUT visit and the program required visit with an exercise physiologist. I have a busy August with my psych eval, 2nd NUT visit, Cardiologist appointment and appointment with the vascular surgeon. I'm not sure how many NUT visits I'll need to do. Anthem requires 6 months of a documented weight loss regimen, but it doesn't specify medically supervised. I have a binder from my attempt at losing last year where I documented daily calories, steps, weight, etc. for 8 months. My program coordinator asked for a copy of it to include when they submit my request in Sept after my 3rd (program required) NUT visit. If they accept it, I hope to have surgery in Oct or Nov. If they deny me, I'll have to wait until Jan. or Feb. I feel like I'm in limbo!!

I'm still early in my journey and I know how you feel!! I want it NOW! Patience isn't my strong point.

Congratulations!!!

Kykittie1967 ~ That's great! October isn't far away at all.

I hope your visit went well! Are you considering self-pay because of insurance requirements?

You already have a surgery date? Are you self-pay? October will be here before you know it!!

Congratulations!! One more item off the checklist for you. I have mine next month. What kinds of questions were you asked?

I know what you mean!! I wanted to jump up and down and giggle like a madwoman and cry like a baby at the same time!! I settled for a crazy scream (got a concerned look from the lady exiting a car nearby!) and I high fived a concrete post! Glad to "meet" someone just starting out too

Are you going to Mexico?

He's Dr. Kerlakian in Cincinnati, OH. How did yours go?

It started out rough with a 2 hr wait (he was stuck in surgery - it happens ) but the folks in the office were awesome and the surgeon was terrific. I'll be getting started with my exercise and nutritional visits this Thurs and a support group meeting next week. I'm so excited to finally be on this journey!!