Katycando

After I completed my last class it took a week to get my surgery date, which was about a month from notification. I went to the seminar in May and completed all my stuff the second week of July. I really like Dr. Fontana, but the hoops one has to jump through get a bit annoying. And somewhat redundant. However, I totally understand their desire to weed out those who aren't dedicated to success!

My surgery date is 9/17 and I start my 7 day liquid diet on Thursday. My surgeon requires 7 days sans solids and <20gm protein daily. I'm not looking forward to a week of tasteless sugar-free food, but I AM looking forward to wearing a swimsuit next summer! Wish all ya'll the best of luck!

Is it necessary to have a catheter for the laproscopic surgery?

I checked several clinics around here (SE VA), and they all had fees (ranged from $495-$750). I think most surgeons want to make sure the surgery is as successful as possible, so they want to educate us. My surgeon, if I'm approved, requires two support group meetings, a "wellness"(read: fitness & nutrition) seminar, a book they wrote (3 ring binder w/ about 100 pages of info), a pre-surgery preparation seminar, and membership to the hospital fitness facility. Of course, these classes also meet insurance requirements. I guess bottom line is that the insurance company wants to make sure they aren't wasting their money, and surgeon doesn't want his liablity insurance going up!