Just completed week 8 of my Options classes through Kaiser. Four more weeks and I will be finished with that. Then just waiting for the referral....already have the medical clearance, just seems like it has taken so long.

Yes, the process does feel like an eternity. I remember when I got my surgical clearance and a surgery date I finally felt like the end is in sight. But remember that the challenge comes when you do the *very* restrictive two week, pre-op diet. I start mine on February 26th for a surgery date of March 12th. Those two weeks will be the challenge.

On the other side I think many are thankful for having the extended period of time to get ready for WLS. The mental aspect of it is much bigger than you think. I had to do a 6 month program and yes, it did seem to take forever. And then when it was time to actually schedule the surgery it was like "holy crap I can't believe it's here already." I would love to see statistics that show whether or not people going through a prolonged waiting period (i.e. taking classes) are more successful long term in their weight loss.