The beginning. I asked my PCP about Bariatric surgery about six months ago . Since then been researching and reading. I finally called the Group Health Washington Bariatric center. The nurse was nice but told me it would be two years minimum and that I probably wouldn't qualify . My basic plan doesn't cover it anyway.
I'm 57, weigh 250 pounds, 5' 9". I've been up and down with weight my whole life. Done Medifast twice, weight watchers three times, nutrisystem and HMR. All worked until I reached goal and then stopped and went back to my previous ways. Then boom fat again. Been this way forever.

I need a drastic change. I'm ready. All my life I have wanted to be a thin man again as I was as a child. I have dreamed of wearing black pants and white shirts with a skinny tie like all the men wore in the 60s.
I want to be that confident healthy happy man.

I'm going to do it for myself by myself with the love of my husband supporting me.

Many doctors I have found today don't seem to care about helping alleviate pain, if you are fat they always think that's the reason and they are right. But condescension and Tylenol don't take the pain away. I'm done with them and tired of waiting in line for months only to find it's really all on me.

So I'm taking my life in my own hands. I know this surgery is not a panacea and I will have to change my relationship with food, stick up for myself more and not take crap from others as much.

Anyway, I'm beginning.

Haven't heard anything since my call last week but I'm guaranteed the date.

Every change begins with one step.

I'm doing this.

Tom

Hi Catlynk

I'm so glad you chose Dr Illan I have been reading almost every thread on here and have never heard anything but very good things about him. One lady did complain that he was unable to check on her one day in recovery because he had an emergency with another patient! Really??? I think she had nothing to complain about. Speaks well of a doctor that he takes care of patients and doesn't leave that to others.

I'm talking to Dr Illan to decide between a sleeve or RNY due to Gerd I already have.

Let's keep in touch!

Tom

Hi Tom,

I'm a female and have stats similar to yours. I had my surgery with Dr. Illan on the fifth of may and couldn't be happier with his work. I'm excited to start my weight loss journey not be a yo-yo anymore myself. I'm happy to answer any questions you have just private message me if you'd like. Tijuana is fabulous: Stacy,Bill, Robert, Henry, and Juanito have been wonderful. Also, the nurses and other staff are very attentive. They have worked out all of the kinks. Good luck to you!!

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RNYoYo

Thanks so much to write it means a lot and I will PM you that's for sure. Today I was like freaking out a little like am I really going to do this...six weeks from now....it's so good to get confirmation. I feel good about Bariatric Pal Mexico very much. I also am in Seattle so if there are complications I can just fly back down. Easy Peasy

You're most welcome! That's what we're here for

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Hi Tommy

Checking in with you.

I am currently in home with my daughter Tijuana, she had her sleeve done on Monday. Every thing went great and Dr Illan is wonderful! So is his coordinator Omar.

Hi Tommy

Checking in with you.

I am currently in home with my daughter Tijuana, she had her sleeve done on Monday. Every thing went great and Dr Illan is wonderful! So is his coordinator Omar.

Isn't it a neat experience?! Has Juanito given you the tour of Chapultepec yet? Make sure you do that if you can fit it in I was amazed at how beautiful that area was. Hope your daughter is doing great in her recovery!

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Hi Catlynk and RNYoYo

Thanks so much for thinking of me ! I'm doing well , just lurching to the end of the school year, two more weeks . Had so many issues with my IBS lately that I've stopped eating just about everything. liquid diet starts in a few days. Hope everything goes well for you!

I don't know Juanito. Our coordinator's name is Omar. We went to the coast about 40 minutes away could be what your talking about

Hi Catlynk and RNYoYo

Thanks so much for thinking of me ! I'm doing well , just lurching to the end of the school year, two more weeks . Had so many issues with my IBS lately that I've stopped eating just about everything. liquid diet starts in a few days. Hope everything goes well for you!

every thing went great! Thanks!

How much for tipping total, who to tip and how much ? My husband does not like to tip so I want to be prepared

Today is the day waiting in Seattle to board the plane to San Diego. Really tired and ready to sleep all the way there.

I just had surgery with dr.illan last Wednesday! You're gonna do great! I was so skeptical when I went and have been pleasantly surprised! I was never in as much pain as I expected, didn't feel unsafe and my energy level is higher than I thought it would be! You're in great hands!

Erin - 35 - illinois

HW:262

SW: 228

CW:220

Surgery date - 6/22/16

You've got this Tom! See you on the other side...