1st Consultation

Today was the 1st consultation with the surgeon. Everything went well...I really like Dr. Strickland. He went over some information about the different types of surgeries and looked over Chris medical information. His biggest concern, of course, was the diabetes and the need to get rid of that. He was trying to help us make a decision which would be most beneficial for Chris, not ruling out any procedure as an option. When he realized that we were self-pay, he agreed 100% that we should go with the lap band. He said all of Chris' medical problems are weight induced and the lap band should solve the problem. He did warn him against "overeating the band" so we'll have to make sure we stay "in check" with reality after the surgery. I think Chris has some concerns about not having any "punishment" from eating things that would make him sick if he ate them after the gastric sleeve or the gastric bypass. The risks are so much higher for complications with those procedures and the doctor said the cost is at least double that of the lap band...so lap band it is. Which I am very comfortable with. He said Lap Band cures Diabetes in 47% of patients; the % is much higher if it is Type 2 Diabetes which Chris has. Plus, even if not totally cured, the meds would likely be reduced to near nothing. There is $300 a month for us just accounting for the meds alone! So...we are on the road of trying to come up with $14,000.

The next step is the psychological exam. And...the doctor is writing a letter to the insurance company just to see what happens. And he advised us to have an attorney send a letter as well.

As an added note to some issues in the prior posting...we purchased a new washer and dryer...and Chris sold the 4-wheeler. Now if we can just sell the pick-up truck! :)