Are there any banders in the Charlottesville area?

HI!

I was banded in RIchmond on 1/30/08 (down 41 pounds, whoo hoo). I am originally from CHarlottesville but moved to RIC a year ago. Just got on at UVa hospital and we are MOVING BACK, so I'd like to find a support group in the area, too..... When were you banded?

Hello,

Congrats on your loss. Not banded yet. Waiting on insurance approval that seems to be taking forever. Completed blood, psych, nut and EKG. I was begining to think there was not anyone in the area. We really need a group in the area for times when things get a little rough. When are you moving?

I have found a group in C'ville went to the meeting today. If you are interested I will foward the info to you. It is mostly Gastric Bypass and about 5 LapBand. Let me know.

I'm looking for a support group in Charlottesville? I hope to be approved for surgery in July. I've had the psych and nutrition visit. Met my surgeon. Now working on the 3 month diet required by my insurance. I would like to have a support group line up following the surgery. Thanks, Barb

Hi Barb,

I had my surgery last Tue. Dr. Michael Trahan and upon discharge I was given a support group led by Pat Cheeks that meets 2 times a month at Martha Jefferson. There is also another on that meets 1 time a month but it is not all Lapbanders. Who is your Dr.?

Mecia

Dr. Trahan is my surgeon too! I hope things are going well since your banding. I know you are glad to have it behind you. Pat Cheek told me she had a group, but I had hoped to find some folks on-line as well.

I am doing pretty good. Yes I am glad to have it done. I nearly drove myself crazy with the insurance but that is okay now. I will be happy to answer any questions I can. That would have been so great if I had someone to talk to prior to the surgery. You will be busy doing the 3 month diet. That was the one good thing about Tricare they did not require a diet prior to the surgery. Try to decrease your card intake as much as you can before your surgery that will help after. Stay in touch and I will help as much as I can.

Mecia

Thanks so much for offering to answer questions for me. I really appreciate it. I'm starting to get a little nervous. I'm trying to cut back and in some case cut out certain foods. The hardest thing for me will be cutting out sodas. I'm now down to almost half of what I used to drink. I will keep in touch and wish you continued success and good health.

You have to end your affair with the soda. Mine is rice, Pasta and potatoes. If I can give those things up anyone should be able to kick anything.

Mecia

But man it is hard. Especially the one first thing in the morning. I will do it, but I may need a kick in the pants every now and then.

I finalllllllllly got approved. My surgery is Oct. 7.

Congrats! Hope time will fly by.

Thanks so much.

Any updates? I'm waiting for Southern Health to approve me as well

I finally got approved and had my surgery on 10/7. Southern Health is really picky. You have to be on a well documented diet for 3 months, exercise program, and my doctor provided behavior modification material for me to read. Your doctor needs to do a really good job documenting everything. Southern Health can provide you with a list of what is required too. Good luck! Feel free to email me with questions.