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Sept 9, 2007 the first day of the rest of my life
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:clap2:hi Talyn here
I was banded on Sept 9, 2007 by Dr fontana of the Norfolk Surgical Group here inNorfolk Virginia. I can only say I wish I had done it sooner ! The extensive program required prior to my surgery makes perfect sense now. they give you all of the tools you need to succeed.
From my initial decision(3/2007) to consider the surgery it took just under six months total. First I had to determine if my insurance would cover the procedure. the answer was yes, "as long as it was deemed medically necessary". the I had to research local surgical groups complication rates and reputatations. I then attended a lap band information seminar sponsored by Sentara Hospitals.
All of my research was confirmed, the surgeon in attendance answered all of my questions and then some. They provided information on their extensive bariatric program , cost, expectations, and a time line for how long most of the "hoops" usually take. I think I attended the seminar in late may.
I made an appointment to see the surgeon for my consult in june. IN the mean time I attended a couple of support groups to gather more information and to reinforce to myself tht the lapband was for me.
I attended the consult and paid my program fee (which includes all program co pays, wellness and psyiotherapy visits, post-op pysiotherapy vist and lots and lots of support). Of note, both of the program coordinators are biariatric surgery patients, so they know the struggles of dealing with obesity.
In record time I had arranged and scheduled all of my pre op work up. I initially had called all of the psychologists on the list , most were booked solid so I rreqested them to call if anyone cancelled. Some did and I had my psych consult done 10 days after my surgery consult. Ultimately I had everything completed by mid august except for one last required support group meeting. I remember the joy of that meeting, I couldn't wait to get home to email the coordinator to tell her all ofmy required activities were completed.
Less than a week later I had been approved for surgery by my insurance company ! I was thrilled. As I work full time as well as attend graduat school full time, I wanted to have the surgery bertween class sessions. This request was accomodated better than I could ever image. My classes for summer ended September 14th, I had my surgery September 19th, 2007 at Sentara Norfolk.
What a wonderful experience, everyone from admission to the nurses on the short stay unit(which is where SNG puts their bariatric patients) were wonderful ! The nurse were caring and attentive, the room were spacious, and the pain was minimal. I had a patient controlled analgesic machine(PCA) so I was in control of giving myself pain meds. I was up and walking the hall a few hours after surgery. I fell amazing!!!!!
The next morning I was up at the crack of dawn(Literally) I was ready to go home. but first I had to have a barium swallow to ensure proper placement and then it was time for breakfast(crystal light and jello) yummy !
After which it was home for me !
More later
Talyn