Paisley

losingjusme, thank you so much! :ohmy:

Thank you for the welcome. Until I can figure out how to set up a fancy signature line like many of you have, I'll tell you where I'm at. I currently weigh about 305 (I'm 5'7"). I've lost over 60 lbs in the last year trying to get myself adjusted to a lifelong eating plan that I know I'll have to stick to post-surgery. I'm also a Type II diabetic, so eating right is important. Having eaten like a teenager for thirty years, changes come hard. Learning to try and actually like healthy foods is a constant challenge for me. But I'm getting there, slow but sure. Part of me wishes the wait in my area (Portland, ME) wasn't so long.....but the other part of me believes that I needed this time to get my 'stuff' together and prepare myself for post-surgery life. Everything happens for a reason, I guess. :Dancing_wub:

atallen06, Anthem BC/BS is excellent. It's more expensive, but there's a good reason for that.....their customer service and processing expediency is outstanding. They focus a great deal on preventive measures and, imo, the Lap Band is indeed preventive. Helping people lose weight improves their health, hence, fewer medical claims to have to pay out in the long run. They are my carrier, too, and I've already been pre-approved for surgery. :Dancing_wub:

Hi, everyone! After waiting for over a year, I received notification of my first appointment to start the process for Lap Band surgery. It's been a long, long wait. Three years ago, I started the process for gastric bypass surgery but backed out after going through quite a few appointments because the risks scared the heck out of me. I also know of several people who have had gastric bypass and some have also had a host of gastro-intestinal issues. They all lost a great deal of weight, but some just aren't healthy anymore despite the weight loss. So I declined continuing towards that surgery. After discussing my finding with my doctor, she suggested the Lap Band and we started the process all over again. Finally! I have my first appointment scheduled for May 9th. A little about me - I'm a 45 years old, female, and work in the medical insurance field. I'm looking forward to meeting some people who are also waiting for the Lap Band or who have already gone through the process and are on their way to becoming "big losers." :Dancing_wub: See you on the forum.