First Consultation Experience - ThinnerTimes

'thann · 06-27-2007, 08:56 AM

Hi, everyone. So yesterday I had my first consultation for GBS at Barix Clinic in Ypsilanti, MI.

There were about 15 of us at the seminar, and then we each met privately with three other folks for weigh-in and BP, paperwork, consulting, and surgical consult.

I was surprised at how far some had traveled -- northern Michigan, Canada... I asked my surgeon (Jon Schram, MD) about those coming from Canada, and he said that the typical wait for GBS in Canada is several years, so the Canadian government allows patients to have the operation in the States and Canadian insurance will cover it (GBS only, not Lap-Band). That was pretty interesting. He said that if I had all my paperwork done yesterday, I could have the surgery in one month. I'm glad I live so close to the clinic! (15 minutes)

I have BCBS and need to have a psych eval (scheduled for July 27) and a doctor's note and stress test (seeing my doctor July 18). Then of course we have to wait for approval from BCBS, which can take several months. I'm in no rush -- I'm just happy to have finally made a decision and be started with the process!

I was very impressed with the seminar and private surgical consult yesterday -- I know I've selected the right place. Barix is dedicated solely to WLS and subsequent reconstructive surgery.

And for your viewing pleasure, below are my official "before" photos (which my son took just as I was leaving for the consult).

I'm on my way!

'thann

Tim · 06-27-2007, 09:04 AM

Congrats, you won't believe how fast the time will go.

miscat65 · 06-27-2007, 09:19 AM

Hi I'm Cathy and I just wanted to say congratulations on making the decision to have the surgery. I know that it was not something that you took lightly. But it was the best decision that you could have made. I am so glad that I did. I had my surgery November 18, 2004, here in Tallahasee, Florida, with Dr. Sieloff. He is the best!!! I would do it over if I had to. I weighed in at 289, and I am at 172 now. I feel great, I can breath and move so much better, not to mention the cute clothes!! So, I am praying that you have an uneventful surgery and a quick recovery. God is so good and he will bring you through this, because he was the one to bring you to it. Take care.

Cathy

LyndasRoom · 06-27-2007, 10:05 AM

This is such an exciting time...remember to enjoy the journey!

JenBear7 · 06-27-2007, 10:50 AM

Grats on the consult... time really will fly now.. you have no idea. Its nutty. I remember my first consult seemed like nothing would ever HAPPEN.. now.. holy wow... I wish time would slow down.. but just a tad!

Lynda.. you made me laugh right out loud! Im gonna enjoy this journey more in about 12 days! It hasnt been bad... just a little tense...

Polly D · 06-27-2007, 12:14 PM

congratulations on your seminar! My first one is tomorrow and I'm glad it's here. Best wishes to you!

LyndasRoom · 06-27-2007, 05:32 PM

Cathy! You've been waiting a long time. You've been hanging out with us though. You'll be sitting in the seminar, saying "I knew that.....I knew that...oh YEAH...I KNEW that!"

SDeRossett · 06-27-2007, 06:36 PM

I had my GBS July 23, 2002. So I'm coming up on 5 years in a few weeks. I just wanted to let you know that I'm 5'0" and was 268 when I had the surgery. You're going to do great!!!! My sister went through one of the btc's down state as well and she too is doing very well after almost five years. I'm so excited for you and the other gal's about ready to go through this. Just one thought though... it's no joy ride the first week or the first month but things get easier as each new day passes. Wishing all of you the best of luck and great success! Congratulations on your first step to a healthier life.

Sharon

Bgbdtny · 06-27-2007, 07:29 PM

You Docter is correct ...in some places in Canada...mostly in BC to Alberta , also some places near Toronto Ontario..the wait can be 2-5 years. I think Im one of the lucky ones...it took me 6 mths just to see my surgeon which was this month...and he said my surgery will probably be in Feb. So its a little over a year for me !! In the meen time I got some tests to take and Im seeing a nutritionist , so Im hoping it will go quick!!

Nette72 · 06-27-2007, 07:42 PM

Congrats 'thann, you are on your way.