:banana :banana

I just had to let you all know I've been approved! I'm being banded by Dr. Johnell in Greeley, Colorado on October 28. I've already done all my pre-op testing. I'm so excited, but a little scared too. I just pray I can stick to good eating habits and maximize my loss. I'll take any suggestions I can get. I've been reading all the comments about how hard it can be and all I can say is it's got to be better than gaining every year.

I think this site is great. You all share everything (even if it's not band related LOL) and it's so helpful to us who are soon to be banded or newbies.

Wish me luck

hopeful1

Hi Tanya,

Hang in there. I never thought I'd get approved either. The four months it took seemed like an eternity now it's done and surgery is just around the bend. Keep on trying.

Denise

Hi, Denise! Welcome and congrats on your approval! I will be right behind you with a date of Nov. 5. Good luck!!!

Blossom,

We'll have to compare notes as we go along. Good luck to you too.

Tanya, my insurance initially denied mine, I appealed, 8 months later I got my band. Would I do it again and wait that long if necessary? In a heartbeat!!!

Gee folks thanks for helping to keep my spirits up. I didnt know insurance approval took so long. So I am feeling a little better. THANK YOU ALL.

I know exactly how you feel during the waiting game and then once you are approved it's like "WOW!!!". Don't stress yourself out over anything and just look forward to a great future. Good luck to you!!

Hi hopeful1!

I had surgery in Greeley from Dr. J on 9-21-04. He is excellent and the hospital staff was OUTSTANDING. They did a wonderful job of managing any pain, were friendly, and it was a good experience for me. I get my first fill on 11-5 and I am feeling ready for it. Just follow all the directions they give you and you will have good luck, too, I'm sure! How exciting for you!!! Yahoo!

Rose :banana

I live in Longmont and my surgery date is November 9th! My doctor is also Dr. Johnell and I think he great! Luckily I didn't have to wait too long for approval from my insurance, I would have gone bonkers. All my pre-op tests are done and I will see Dr. Johnell on 11/3 for my pre-op appointment. I still have to go to a support group meeting, I think I'll go to one of the Tuesday evening ones since I work full time.

Kay

Rose and Kay,

Nice to meet you. It's always great to hear from some other Johnell patients. Rose, how have you been doing so far? I have another Dr J friend who was banded Oct. 5. She says that 5 week waiting period to be filled has been a little hard for her. She's healed quickly though and feels good. Have you been able to lose any weight while you're waiting?

Kay my pre-op appointment is Oct. 27. I'm going to an afternoon class on Tuesday, Oct. 26 (I think it's required). Anyway I'm so excited. I'm just hoping I don't get delayed. I've had a few pre-op tests that need to be looked at again! Darn.

Good luck both of you and keep me posted with how things are going. E-mail me at home if you like - ddp652@aol.com.