Newbie here - Looking for a buddy/mentor to help guide me along this new journey. Anyone interested? Thanks !

Hi dmr,

I live near DuBois so i'm not too far away. I'm not banded yet have my consult next week. Can't wait to actually get this journey moving forward. What Dr. and facility are you using? I've decided to go to Erie, Hamot hospital and Dr. Ali. I wish there was somewhere closer!

Good luck! Pat

Hi Pat! Thank you so much for responding - I was beginning to think there wasn't anyone close to home to talk to about this! I choose to go to Geisinger Danville and I haven't been assigned a surgeon yet. I have only had 1 appointment so far. My next one is on the 18th of December. I have a support group to go to on the 17th of this month. I am hoping to get some of my questions answered there. Do you mind sharing why you choose the band over bypass?

Hi, I am from Bradford Pa. I am going to AGH in Pittsburgh. My surgery date is December 8th!!!! Good Luck to you both.

Hi Shassy! I have been to Bradford many, many times (on my way to Salamanca). It's about 2 hours north of where I live. Did you have to go through the 6 months of pre-op stuff? How has your experience been so far? Why did you choose band over bypass? Sorry if I'm too nosy!

Good Luck to you!! Please keep me posted on your progress. I will keep you in my prayers!

Hi dmr and shassy!

There are a few of us around from this part of the state. I chose the band over bypass because of the adjustability. I like the fact that i will always be able to get a fill and have restriction. I like that is removable in case i need to have it removed or even if i need to only have the Fluid removed for some reason. I like the fact that my insides are not permanently altered. And i like the fact that so many have been successful with the band. I know too many people who have had bypass and gained back part if not all of their weight back. My sister had bypass and had so many ill side effects and has gained almost all her weight back and now has to diet to lose again. I like the idea of slower weight loss as i think it is healthier than losing so fast like bypasser's do. Those are the main reasons.

shassy,

I grew up in Smethport so i know Bradford well. Good luck on the 8th! Are you nervous? Does the idea of traveling so far for fills bother you? I really wish there was some place closer!

I'm waiting for the plumber to come and fix my leaky sink.

TTyl soon!