Hello, I am a new member here, and I just wanted to introduce myself and say "hello!" I am scheduled for surgery on September 24, 2012 (pending insurance approval), and I am excited, nervous, scared, anxious and all of the other adjectives that I'm sure a lot have experienced prior to their surgeries. I was so happy to have found this board; the information I've been reading is really helpful. Oh, I guess I should have properly introduced myself: my name is Stephanie and I am in my mid 40's, and I've been struggling with my weight all of my adult life. I look forward to meeting many of you and learning from everyone!

Hi Stephanie! My name is Debbie and I will be having surgery Aug 25th. I know the anxious and nervousness you are feeling but I just keep thinking how much this is going to make my life better, I was going to go thru my insurance as well but they started giving me the run aoround and for the same amount of cash I was going to have to spend for my deductible and such I decided to go to TJ. For $4500 and a plane ticket and passport I am allset and ready to go.

Hi Debbie! Best of luck to you -- it's getting close now! I just heard today that my insurance approved my surgery, so that's one step closer! I wish you all the best!

Just want to say hello and welcome. I'm pre-op so I have no words of wisdom for you. I'm going through the same emotions. Up and down...just trying to keep my focus on the end result: a healthy me :-)