Hello Everyone, I am a fairly new member to this site. Like many others I have been heavy all my life. I have tried many diets such as Atkins, Weight Watchers, Slim Fast and those weight lose pills. On a couple of occasions I have been able to lose as much as 30 pounds. However, over time I have gained all the weight back. Today I had my consultation with Dr. Abkin in Florham Park NJ. I must say that I instantly likes the surgeon, he was very through at explaining the procedure an answered all of my questions. His office is also absolutely beautiful, clean and can accommodate larger people. His staff were also very friendly and professional. Dr. Abkin is also one of the well known doctors in NJ for bariatric surgery. He has many accolades as well and was one of the first doctors to do lapband surgery in NJ. After my consultation was over, I was so excited. I came home and scheduled my Psych Eval, Nutritional Assessment, Labwork, and will be going to my doctor this Saturday for my medical clearance and necessity letters. I have Horizon BC & BS (NJ Direct). I was also able to schedule a Tentative surgery date for Sept. 24th. I had to schedule it far out because I wanted it to be during a time when I didn't have classes. I also wanted to wait until after the summer because I am scheduled to take a vacation. I am 5'5 and my Pre Op weight is 284. I am hoping to get down to an ideal weight for my height which is between 145-155.

Welcome! And congratulations on making a huge decision to improve your health....and your life

You sound just like I was.... I went to the free seminar, and the next morning I was their first caller; setting up every possible appointment I could. Like you, I was SO excited, and beyond ready for this life change.

Again, welcome to this group. You will find so much valuable support. I joined about 3-4 weeks prior to surgery, and got a lot of support pre and post op. Now I love being able to give back, as I received so much.

Welcome and congratulations on what you may come to consider the best decision of your life! Come back often with your questions and status.

Welcome! And congratulations on making a huge decision to improve your health....and your life

You sound just like I was.... I went to the free seminar, and the next morning I was their first caller; setting up every possible appointment I could. Like you, I was SO excited, and beyond ready for this life change.

Again, welcome to this group. You will find so much valuable support. I joined about 3-4 weeks prior to surgery, and got a lot of support pre and post op. Now I love being able to give back, as I received so much.

Thanks mrsinto

Welcome and congratulations on what you may come to consider the best decision of your life! Come back often with your questions and status.

Thanks Cheznoel, I will