Well, I took my next baby step towards this procedure. I went to my PCP for the first time in 1 1/2 years, for one reason to finally be put on medication for high blood pressure and to discuss WLS. The ironic thing is, I had been avoiding this doctor becuase every time I went to see her, even if it was for a cold, etc, she would wiegh me then get on my case about my weight. I never wanted to go to her.

Well, she never even mentioned my weight yesterday, which was ironic because I borught it up to her. She is very willing to back me on this, and told me to let her know if I needed a letter of medical necessity. I told her the two seminars I would be attending tomorrow (Hackensack and Morristown, NJ) and she gave her opinion about them.

I did notice that she doesn't really know much about these surgeries. She was getting confused with the gastric bypass and the lap band. I am glad I had researched so much before going to see her.

So tomorrow I am off to find out more. I still don't know what I am going to do, but at least I will be armed with information to make an informed decision.

Sonia

BTW....are any of you on/been on a diuretic for high blood pressure? If so, how often do you really go to the bathroom? Being a teacher, I don't have ready access to the bathroom. It's not like I can say "Ok 7 year olds, take care of yourself for a couple of mintues" . Just asking if anyone knows. Thanks!

Sonia, congrats on taking that step! Hope all goes well for you!

I take a diuretic for high blood pressure. Usually about an hour or so after I take it, I have to go BIG time, then after that I go about every 1 1/2 - 2 hours. Seems like it was more often in the beginning though, you may have to go through an adjustment period of getting your body used to it. Good luck!

You might eventually end up thanking your doctor for talking to you about your weight every time you saw her. My insurance company wouldn't pay for the band without 5 years of documentation of a weight problem by my physician. (By the way, I've since learned that this requirement can often be challenged).

Nancy

I would definitely tell her you'll be needing that letter with as much documentation as possible of her knowledge of your weight issues. Every time she has counseled you about losing may be a mark in your favor.