Hi:

I am new to this board and am in the early stages of planning the lap band surgery. Just wondering if anyone on here is from North or South Dakota and/or has experiences with any of the surgeons in Fargo or Sioux Falls? I am going to talk to my family doctor about having the surgery today and am trying to gather as much info as possible.

I have struggled with my weight most of my life and am ready for a change. I have a 5 year old and a 1 year old and I want to be around for them for a long time but that won't happen unless I do something now. This board has been very informative in helping me make my decision and I look forward to visiting with you!!

Robin

Welcome! I am from Mitchell, SD and was banded right here in Mitchell, by Dr. Andrew Reynolds. There are several others on this board who were banded in Sioux Falls. Let me know if (via PM) if you would like Dr. Reynolds contact information. Best of luck to you!

I am from Minnesota about 40 min from Sioux Falls. I am actually going to a seminar with Dr. Harris at the Ortho Institue tomorrow. I am just a beginner too.

Thanks for the welcome!! I visited with my family doctor and will be going to a seminar in Fargo on March 26. My doctor was totally supportive and one of the nurses at the clinic (who I had known for years) had the surgery about 9 months ago and has lost 60 pounds. My doc had her to come in to visit with me and her words were "GO FOR IT!!!" So that is what I am going to do. I have found out that my insurance will cover it but they are sending what they call a "medical policy" BCBS of MN so we will have to see what that is all about. I am so excited!!!

Robin

I am in Bismarck ND. My doctor here is really awesome. He has done other things for me (removed lump in breast). He is at Mid-Dakota Clinic, Dr. Schmit. I have BCBS of IL so I am waiting, praying, that they approve and surgery goes fine..... May 10th. If they don't approve then I have to cancel. Praying praying praying!!<br /> <br /> I know there are others here who have said they went to Meritcare in Fargo and had good experiences.

Fluffy - great to hear from you - May 10 is coming up so quickly. Best of luck to you and be sure to come back and let us know how it is going.

Robin

Hi, I am from Breckenridge, MN and have attended the seminar at MeritCare in Fargo, ND. I will be seeing Dr. Monson on May 15th. I have not heard from anyone that has been to him personally. But I do know that his staff has been really great...I am one with thousands of questions and they have been very understanding with each and everyone of them.

Good luck to you!!