Greetings MWG! Congratulations on your life-saving decision. Your journey will be one of a little pain, a lot of compromise and adaptation, but mostly - one of freedom. I had my surgery performed in Denver (Dr. Kirshenbaum) on January 13th. 13 is my new lucky number. I'm a self-pay patient. I found Dr. K to be very experienced, compassionate and reasonable. From everything I've read, the WTLSC surgeons are very good as well. I just could not afford them.
Even though my first fill is scheduled on 2/13, I have already lost 20 pounds. Most of it is from changing bad eating habits and exercise. Plus, I am learning what I can - and cannot - eat. Much of it is by trial and error, but the key is to listen to your body. If food gets "stuck", it's usually because I was eating too fast or trying to eat food I'm not supposed to (pancake for instance - big mistake).
I'm not sure, but I've heard that the WTLSC meetings are only for their patients. I should confirm that for sure. Regardless, support is critical and you should attend as often as you can.
You are taking a huge step toward living again. Don't look back. Just keep listening to your doctor, keep exercising and stay focused on your goal. The end result is worth whatever challenges you might face. Let me know how things proceed. Good luck and keep in touch! Maybe we'll get to watch each other shrink!
