Hi - I am excited to find this...I am having the LapBand done by Dr. Strom on April 12 of 2013 - I'm excited to have the date set! My husband and I found him to be very nice at the seminar...I was very impressed he had it even though there were just three of us potential patients. He seems very kind, confident, and knowledgeable...I left there feeling very comfortable with him as my surgeon. On our first doctor visit, we met with Dr. Shakov...he is the assisting surgeon for Dr. Strom, I was told. He also was very kind and helpful...my husband and I are both happy. Note - lol, my husband just comes with me for support...I am the only one getting the surgery. I look forward to possibly talking more on the forums...and learning a lot more. One question, BarbCain...are you on a special diet yet? I'm thinking mine will start at my first nutritionist appointment in late January. Have a great day!