I am just getting started...

Hi, my name is Lisa and I am only a few weeks into getting started. I had the seminar and surgeon consultation on May 17. I had phone interviews with both the pshychologist and the nutritionist. I also had a phone interview with the surgeon's insurance billing department. I received a letter from my insurance company, BCBS FED PPO, dated May 28, 2008. They said they needed more information or else they would base the decision on what they have by July 10. I only finished up my evaluations on May 29. I can call Julian at the surgeon's office but I am afraid of being a pest. So now I am just waiting to hear something.

I live in Apple Valley, CA, where Roy Rogers and Dale Evans lived and died. Before that I was an "Orange County Girl." I am 5'3" and weigh 210 so my BMI is 37. I also have the following co-morbs-GERD, degenerative disk disease with joint facet arthritis in my spine, hip arthritis, stress incontinence, and high cholesterol and triglycerides. I have been taking anti-depressants for 10 years but I don't think that counts as a co-morb.

I having been reading posts daily and I bought some books about Lap Band that the nutritionist suggested. I have found this website to be tremendously helpful. There are 6 women at work who have had gastric bypass but I have not been able to find ONE person who has been banded. I have already turned off one person at work by discussing my possible lap band. She's as overweight as I am. I understand from reading the books that some people will "shun" others who are actively trying to make a healthier lifestyle for themselves. That's OK with me, I didn't like her all that much anyway.

I am 48 years old and have a wonderful husband of 22 years. I have a daughter age 29 from my first marriage who has three beautiful children and the fourth is on his way. We just found out Monday that it's a BOY! She will be even-steven, 2 boys and 2 girls. My husband was against it at first but we talked over our fears and I have even gotten him to read parts of the books. He's OK with it now and he asked me what could HE do to help ME!

I believe that I am ready for this surgery and a new healthier life. I am pretty sure I understand the dietary guidelines. I could REALLY use someone who has experience and can guide me through this journey.

Thank you! Lisa:cool2: