heidsz

Wow, you look great. Thanks so much for sharing your story. I go on Monday for my first consult meeting... it is a little scary but I know it will be a tool to help me get this weight off. Great pictures! Heidi

Thanks so much! When you went to your first consult with your doctor what did you take with you? Like someone suggested my family practice doctor write a letter for me... I have never seen the same doctor while I lived in NJ for more then two times, and really my OB GYN knows me better then anyone... I do have tons of medical records from things that happened in the past, surgeries (joints), diabetes when pregnant - lost child, I get Veterans benefits because of a neck injury while on active duty in which I have degenerative disc disease in my neck... Anyways - not so share all that with you but I am hoping it helps my case to get approved. I am 5'3 and am at 228... so I am right on the line of the 100 pounds. The doctors office said Tricare needs 6 months of a diet - I have been a member on weightwatchers since July (many times over) online. But I don't have every week weight out... is this a problem? Thanks for your help and advice. Do any of you have blogs or pictures? Heidi

Hi, I was just wondering if anyone here has used Dr. Minkin in St. Louis? I have my first appt with him on the 23rd. I was wondering what does he usually do for that appointment? How long did it take from your appointment until your surgery? Are you happy you did it. Thanks for your help, Heidi

Hi Chris, Thanks so much. My email is heidshosh@aol.com. I have heard from people on here that with Tricare Standard it has taken about 48 hours to get approved after the paperwork is submitted. (now watch me be the case of months... ha ha - I hope not). We are an air force family and I haven't had a steady doctor in years so I have no idea that my doctor would write me a letter without even knowing me (we just moved here in July). I do have a disability through the VA and have had other medical issues and have that paperwork, hopefully that helps. Thanks for sharing what to expect. take care, Heidi

Thanks again for sharing your experiences. I have my first appt on the 23rd. I am not sure what to expect, if I get bloodwork then or what... what usually happens? I am getting mine done in St. Louis. Take care Heidi

Hi, I have my first consult with him on the 23rd. I was wondering what to expect then. Do they do the blood work and all that - that day? Or do you usually come back? How long did it take you to get your surgery from the date of your first appointment? Thanks so much, Heidi

Thanks for your replies. Are you glad you had the lapband? What has your success been like? Do you wish you had gastric bypass? Thanks so much Heidi