Hello Everyone!

I am a new member. I am 350 lbs and need to lose 200 lbs. My insurance will not cover the surgery and I have had to take out a loan with Capital One. I started with Dr. Felix Spiegel, MD, F.A.C.S. Went to his seminar and had my first appointment with him. I am sure he is a fine surgeon, but his office staff is incompetent. I was told so many different things that I got to a point where I said enough is enough, and I found a different surgeon.

I am using Dr. Matthew St. Laurent, M.D and the difference is indiscribable. He spent around 30 minutes with me and explained and answered all my questions. I feel very comfortable with him.

Dr. Felix Spiegel has so many patients going through his office, that I feel his office can not handle the load.

I am having my surgery on Tuesday (Jan 3rd) and I am worried if this is going to work. I have chosed the Lap Band because I have to pay for this myself and I can not afford the Gastric Bypass. I have many friends that have had the Bypass and are doing great.

Hopefully I can do this. I need to do this or I am going to die...

PS. Dr Laurent has put me on a liquid diet 7 days before surgery. I have had a tough time sticking to this. Wow, If I could stick to this, then why would I need this surgery right?

Good luck to everyone out there and pray for me...

hi Fergie!!

Congratulations on your new years gift to your self!!

The liquid part is hard for a few days but after the surg you will be able to eat regular food again and will notice what a difference the band is in how much you eat!!

Yes it is worth it

Yes it is hard

yes you still get depressed about not having your favorite food

yes eventually you don't want those foods

but most of all

.

.

.

.

YES!!! It is worth it!!!!

Plus now you get a new wardrobe, Who wouldn't want that?

Good luck next week we will all be thinking about you

Welcome Fergie and I'm glad to hear you switched doctors and found one you are comfortable with.

We all have our doubts if the band will work or not but remember the band doesn't work on its own, we must put as much effort into it as possible. Same as the bypass. I do know people who are gaining even with the bypass. I'm so happy I am banded, it gave me back hope, hope that I lost years ago.

IMHO you made the safer choice.

Congratulations on your surgery date and please let us know how you are doing. Hugs and Good Luck !!!!