A long road...

[StartingOverNJ 0]

Over a year ago I went for my first seminar and have been reading and studying everything I can get my hands on. Went to more than one seminar before deciding on a surgeon to use and I've been spending lots of time trying to meet all the insurance requirements.

One more doctor to see today before the insurance package will be ready to submit for approval. I'm being told that everything so far looks good but time will tell. Currently targeting a November 20th surgery date. Been reading this site for a little while now and figured it was time to say hi.

I used to be an avid walker and look forward to getting back to it. Started with the treadmill last week so I'm hopeful.

Nervous, frustrated and excited all at the same time....

[jetti 2]

welcome to the board and good luck on your journey!!!

[StartingOverNJ 0]

Thanks Jetti.

Just an FYI I'll be using Dr Bertha's partner, Dr Abkin.

[jetti 2]

in my opinion they are both great doctors and their entire office is very helpful!

there is so much info on this thread but if you have any questions feel free to ask and i can try to help ease your nerves.

[StartingOverNJ 0]

Wow, a whirlwind of activity the last few days. Finally got all the insurance documentation together and it was submitted yesterday morning. Received approval today!!!!! (BCBS even!)

Looks like 12/2/08 is my surgery date. Now the nerves start. Sigh!

[jetti 2]

congrats on your approval!!!! My turn around for approval was a few days...I was expecting weeks!

[StartingOverNJ 0]

I was expecting at least a week if not more based on all the insurance horror stories I've been reading here. I guess if you take the time to get all your ducks in a row things move more quickly.

I think the key reason is that the PCP I've been using for the last 3 or 4 years has kept detailed notes of the progress and then the lack of progress of my attempts to lose weight. Interesting to read them myself, a true roller coaster experience for sure.

BTW - do you use the lapband support group sessions that Abkin/Bertha offer? Are they worth while? Thinking of going to the 11/19 one to check it out. I'm not sure group meetings are for me as I'm an Internet type person but willing to try anything to help adjust to my new life ahead.

[angcal26 2]

Congrats on your approval!!! You will be fine just stay focused and remember what the end of the rollercoaster ride will yield. All the best. Angcal26 :thumbs_up:

Take every day as it comes.

[jetti 2]

I went to 2 support meetings and was not really impressed enough to keep going back. the first one was held at a hotel near my job so that is the only reason I went and there was 5 people there and I was the only banded person. Everyone else had gastric bypass and they were 3-5 years out so it was not helpful at all. the second one I went to was better as everyone was banded but most people were only a few weeks out of surgery and I was about 6 months. there was one lady there that was about 9 months but she put me and the way I work my band down so I was not happy about that. I would suggest at least trying the support group once - you never know what you can learn or maybe teach someone. the nutritionist that was at both of these meetings was really helpful so that is one plus.

there is an NJ support thread on here...lots of great women from NJ and many other states. its a great group and everyone is helpful. I meet up with one of the other NJ gals a few months ago just before she was banded and we had a good time. we are looking to get a few NJ people together again if you would like to join us...head over to the tread and check it out.