GaArmyWife

I have been a lurker here on and off for a few months. Just thought I would say Thank You to all of those that post their expriences and their support out here for those of us just starting this journey. It is much appreciated. I have had a fairly short journey as I am a military dependant and I didn't have to jump through as many hoops as some...for which I am very thankfull.... Anyhow, just wanted to say thanks and let you all know that I have a date...2 weeks from today. March 1, 2010 is going to be my new birthday!

Congrats! Way to work your sleeve.

Hi, Just thought I would introduce myself and say congrats to all who have already had this done. I am Nancy and I currently live in Grovetown, GA (it's where the Army wants us for now). I am 5' 7" and weigh 236 with my BMI about 36. I met with the General Surgery dept. here at the hosp. yesterday and they told me that I qualify for the surgery. I was given 2 choices: The surgeon for the military hosp. (who come highly recommended) is deployed and will be back the end of the year, with surgery right after the first of the new year, or I could Tricare out and have it done by one of a couple of Drs. out in town. I have read a good many of the post on here and a few other boards and have decided the I want the LapBand done instead of the other variation of gastric surgery. (was told I could choose that as well) So, here are my questions to those of you that have had it done already: 1. why did you choose LapBand? 2. what complications did you have if any? and last: 3. If you were given the choice to wait and have it all paid for with no co-pay and with a Dr that is highly recommended but have to wait a few extra months or pay a co-pay and start the process right away with surgery in the next few months which would you choose? I know this is a lot to ask, but I am just looking for advice at this point so I can make an educated choice.:juggle: Thanks in advance yall. Nancy:smile:

I am so excited. I spoke with the civilian dr's office that I chose today and am going to the seminar next week even though they probably won't even get my referal from tricare till then. At least the ball is rolling now. Nancy I guess I should add that I believe that I have most of the labs done (based on what I have read here and a few other places) since I was in the hospital a few weeks ago for 3 days. That's one step closer as well.

Thank you all for your responses. Just wanted to update you on my progress. I spoke with the bariatric nurse at the military hosp today and the surgeon's off post that I am choosing both used to work for the military hosp and have excellent reps (have found nothing neg. about them). She also told me that if I run into problems with Tri-care or I don't care for the staff or have a problem anywhere with the outside docs that I can choose to go back to the military hosp. because I meet their qualification. Thank you again for all the advice that was offered. I really appreciate it and found it very usefull. Nancy