Hello everyone,

My name is Heather Conrad and I live in Nashville TN. I am 43 years old and have battled weight for most of my life. However, since my back went bad, my weight has completely gone out of control. I am only 5'1 and currently weigh 213ish. I know that number does not seem super big but, on a tiny frame such as mine, it feels terrible. I have tried every diet known to man and I only end up yo yoing. I had back surgery one year ago and since packed it on. I used to be really active and led such a healthy lifestyle and I feel this surgery is my chance to have that back again. I am currently on many pain medications, and hypertension medication. My goal is to lose this weight and get off all meds. I just wanted to share a little about myself and I would appreciate any support I can get. Oh yeah, my first appt., is this Th. I am going through Vanderbilt. Does anyone have experience there. I have federal BC/BS, and they require a 3 month supervised weight loss which I think is ridiculous. I have my last two years of weight loss tries documented but, whatever it takes. At least it is not 6 mos. to a year like I have read on some other insurances. I am interested in the VSG. Any comments are welcome and appreciated. Thanks Heather

Hi Heather,

I hope you're progressing nicely towards surgery. I have one more visit in my 6-month waiting game . . . and while I was frustrated at first to have to wait so long, it has been a good thing. I have used this time to prepare my mind and body for the upcoming surgery. I am going to Vanderbilt also (Dr. Williams). I had back surgery 4 years ago and desperately need to get the weight off my 5-4 frame too.

Good Luck and keep us posted on your progress.

Best of luck on your journey. I just completed my three month program, which flew by. I have to say, that is wasn't bad and I actually enjoyed most of it. I learned a lot so it really helps you prepare. My records should be mailed any day now. I'm excited, but nervous at the same time. Especially, with the approval process. I, like you, have battled weight most of my life. Now it's time to really take control and make the lifetime changes that I need. Not only for myself, but for my daughter (who is 8) watch me with all the yoyo dieting. It's effecting her and she's already self conscious about being thin. So I must say, that a major change is needed.

Let us know how things are going for you!

Congrats! I start my 3 month management requirement on Monday. Keep us posted!

I am also 5'1 and weigh about 220 ish and suffer from back pain so I know exactly what you mean. A few people have told me you don't look fat you will be fine, they don't understand the nightmare I live daily with pain and pressure. Anyhow the good news is I finally finished all my pre op testings yesterday 2 weeks of back to back doctors I look back and don't know how I did it but I did. Now waiting for all the results and surgery date, can't wait. I have empire BCBS thank god no waiting. All I can tell you the tine will fly by and before you know it you are sleeved. I can't wait for the day I get on this and say I'm sleeved yeahhhhhh.

Hey everyone,

Wow, thanks for all of your responses. I really do appreciate them. One of you said you were using Vandy, very cool. My doctor is Dr. Clements. I really like him. I had my 1st month weight in yesterday. Down 5 lbs. Yay. Thought I would have gained honestly. I had my blood work yesterday. And my nutrition appt. Th. My nutritionist said I think like a "skinny person". Haha. I think I will have my surgery in mid May as it looks now. So, excited but, I must say how hard it is to diet when you know you are going to have this surgery. I am just trying to maintain at this point. Oh, and guess what.....I am not 5'1 like we thought. I shrunk to 5'0, I guess from my back surgery and no lower discs in my lumbar spine. Yikes. I love this website and I hope you all will stay in touch with me. Lets keep each other posted. Oh, and Vandy girl, we should meet up at Vandy and have lunch....that would be fun. Heather