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I would image part of the wait is I have to be cleared by the Cardiologist and my next appointment for his is 12/27/07. I also heard she is full for December, taking some time off in January, and this puts February in place. I am okay with this date, as I am rehearsing the lifestyle, which is highly recommended by the Nutritionist. So far, so good. I am just glad I am finally approved. Been on the journey since August 2007. Sharon/Memphis

I just received my phone call from my surgeon that I have been approved by my insurance. I will see her 2/21/08 @ 130 p.m. She will schedule my surgery at that visit. I have been on my journey since August 2007. Yipppppeeee. Sharon/Memphis:clap2::bounce::whoo:

Lauren, I am a Master's Level Student at UT College of Social Work and feel the same as you. The students I am in class with continually heckle the teachers, don't want to do group assignments, which is a burden on those of us that are willing to work and earn the grade. I have also run into the powers to be being to toxic to deal with, went outside her scope, and was validated. I am paying my good earned money (not on scholarship, because I work, nor do I have mommy and daddy supporting me.) I would like to learn for the money I am paying $3500 for 9 college hours. I finished by last exam yesteday and sent my paper in today. Done until January 9, 2008. Sharon/Memphis

I had the same treatment Monday at the Cardiology Lab, with two techs. I am going to write them up and send it to the Hospital Director. They need to be held accountable. Sharon/Memphis

I had one today at the Hospital when I had my stess test completed. The people i Cardiology were very cold, not friendly and those of us that have NEEDLE PHOBIA could use a little TLC. I asked for my husband to be in the room with me and they denied him access. After 2 more sticks and me crying, they let him in. I work in the mental health field and know I have trauma around medical care. Even when I asked for what I needed to help me get thru the needle stuff...they wouldn't oblige. I am being asked by my friends to let management know. I will do that tomorrow. Too upset today. Have to go back there again tomorrow for the 2nd part of the test...another needle...my husband states he will come in whether they like it or not. Sharon/Memphis

Wonder what they do if they have problems...after returning home? Seems to risky to me...despite the cost.

If your family is like my family, they won't comment on how good I look, they would talk about when are your going to loose the rest. I realized they are the ones with the problem, not me. 50lbs is FANTASTIC. Can't wait until I have my surgery and can say such a thing, especially at holiday time.

I agree with Sue. I can't face me in 10 years with another 100 lbs added...despite trying everything else.

I have emotional support from various avenues, plus I am a therapist I can talk to one or more times a week/month. I think this is one of the weeknesses in our arena...not having a therapist with the knowledge of WLS. Please email PM and I will talk more. Sharon/Memphis

You can also call the Insurance Commissioner for the state. I know that insurance companies don't like having that call made as it is a bad mark against them. Ask about the turnaround time to give yeh or neh and your recourse. Insurance companies win...if we as individuals don't stand up for our rights. If we did pay them, they wouldn't be in business......We are the Client.

Is there any support group where you are at? Or even a 12Step Group (AA, CA, NA, OA). Not sure if you are familiar with them...but these are "free" groups to go and be a part of learning to take care of self, especially when you know you can't handle what you are going thru by your self. The OA is Overeaters Anonymous..is about not about sitting around talking about food, it is helping you be supported with the pain, powerlessness feeling, looking at choices others may know about in your area.

Hey Maureen, As they say in the 12-step meetings...use that Serenity Prayer as much as you want...it won't wear out. Shorter version...I can't, he/she can, so why don't I let him/her. I know for me in my other 12-step programs (20 years in recovery) the program works; now have to face the fact that I must look at the weight being a mask for more years of pain I haven't dealt with. But this forum and others are helping me realize I can shed the weight, learn how to deal with the weight being gone, and face life on life's terms with the help of HP. So to all, let's use all our tools available with the band for the best chance at success. Here is to us,