Consult Thursday

I've posted here and there. I keep coming up with questions, but always seem to find the answer where you guys have already talked about it. The board is VERY informative and has helped me to make my decision.

I have my consult on Thursday. Since the surgeon is 2.5 - 3 hours away from our house we're going to stay overnight at a hotel out there. I'm excited! Every once in awhile I get nervous, but the excitement by far outweighs it.

I'll be self pay (no insurance...self-employed). The surgery will be $10,800 to include the anesthesiologist and 3 months of aftercare.

I know a lot of people have been to Kirshenbaum, but I went to a seminar of Dr Brown's and I really like him. I think it's important to be comfortable with your surgeon (the thought of somebody poking holes in my stomach, KWIM?). I didn't look any further once I was sure of Dr Brown.

I know I have to go through the whole approval to get the procedure done, but I see it going through relatively easily. I have a BMI of 37 with several weight-related health problems (although nothing severe like diabetes).

I've read bits and pieces of what people went through during their consult, but I'd love if any of you would post here so I know what I'm getting in to.

I've already started buying items on the shopping list. Can you tell I'm excited!? LOL I've lurked more than posted, so most don't know me, but I'll say there are several here that I respect and look up to and I thank you for sharing your journey.