PYBSFL

I wish my surgery was complete by now but it was denied by my insurance company. I submitted my appeal yesterday. I should have a response in the next 30 - 40 days. I continue to be impressed with the Cleveland Clinic of Florida. The staff has been accessible, understanding and helpful. Everything was a go until my insurance hiccup. I plan to move forward with the CCF once approved. Dr. Szomstein was very personable. Not your typical "I am surgeon, I am God". I work with a woman who had the Gastic Bypass at Cleveland Clinic several years ago. She has had wonderful success and has moved on with her life with a healthy BMI. She has gotten herself certified to dive and seems quite happy. She never complains about her new lifestyle or dietary restrictions. To my knowledge she has suffered no complications and her diabetes is gone. Her mother also went to CCF for the gastric bypass procedure. Her results have not been quite so positive. She is about 30 years older than her daughter and not following Doc's orders when it comes to her diet. She has lost all of her hair. However, she too has lost an enormous amount of weight and no longer suffers from diabetes. My brother had the Gastric Sleeve surgery in the fall in Buffalo N.Y. Less than two weeks ago he completed a 63 mile bike marathon. I look forward to my future. I am sure I gave you more info than you needed. Good luck with your decision. I know how hard it is. I looked for a program closer to home and was not pleased. I am willing to travel to CCF for this surgery. Patty

My name is Patty. I live in Port St. Lucie, Florida. I have chosen the Cleveland Clinic of Florida in Miami. It is about a 2 1/2 drive to Miami from my home. I am 43 years old, happily married for 20 years and have too sons ages 16 and 17. I am a letter carrier for the US Postal Service. I have been struggling with my weight since adolescence. I would have had surgery a year ago, but the insurance I carried at the time did not cover it. Today was my seminar and first Dr. consultation. I have been to one before, just not at the Cleveland Clinic. I was very impressed. I found them to be very professional and supportive. If I pull all of my info and tests together quickly, I expect to have surgery before the end of March. I am at the very beginning of my new journey, wish me luck.