Hi, my name is Lisa and I was banded in Columbia on 1/30/2008 by Dr. James Givens at Lexington Medical Center. He is with Riverside Surgical (SC Obesity Surgery Center). LMC is a center of excellence. I have done GREAT! My highest weight in my life was 342. When I went for my first consult appt I was at 326. I have Humana Gold Choice Medicare Advantage plan as I am on disability for bipolar disorder and I was approved. It took a while because Humana dropped the ball. They had my paperwork for months and didn't know it. During those months I was back and forth as to whether I really wanted to do this or not. Finally, I just decided I had had enough being fat and miserable and decided to go for it.

I was very concerned about my bipolar disorder and this trek so I have to keep a close eye on things.

When on the pre-op diet for 30 days before surgery, I lost 12 pounds. Yesterday at my post-op appointment to remove my staples I weighed and had lost another 14!

I have no one here to talk to about the journey who understands the things I am going through so this forum is great for me. Please feel free to e-mail anytime!!!

Lisa:thumbup:

Welcome Lisa and this is a great place for support. Glad you came in and best wishes with you band.

Hi Lisa, and welcome to bandland! It sounds like you went through quite an ordeal with the insurance company, but I bet it was all worth it in the end. It sounds like you are doing great so far.

Let us know if we can help you with anything.