"1/11/07 --Last night we attended the pre-appointment seminar. Dr. Meilahn seemed very mannerly and kind, and there was no impression that anyone was making a \"hard sell\", which I found to be a relief. The office staff seemed genuine and kind, and the waiting area was accomodating for my 360+ pound self but I thought some of the chairs *might* be small for anyone significantly larger. He more than adequately explained the available procedures (although I did notice he blew past the duodenal switch-- looks like they are leaning towards the other laparoscopic surgeries). Personal responsibility and aftercare were very much stressed. Risks were explained very openly and thoroughly. I look forward to my appointment in February.rnPOST SURGERY- Out of respect for both myself and Dr. Meilahn, I decided to lose as much as I could pre-op, which turned out to be 68 pounds, bringing my BMI from 62 down to 50. Dr. Meilahn, in return, did his part well, despite my *still* having a very large liver. He's been kind and considerate, ordered me a visiting nurse and physical therapist (much needed!) and has stayed in constant contact by phone and email as I suffer the tribulations of impacted bowels, and hematomas in my belly that seemingly won't heal. The gastric functioning-- my ability to eat, etc.---are as good as you can expect, and 5 weeks out I have had no vomiting, foaming or dumping. I think this is a testimony to the excellent surgical care I recieved with Dr. M. and Laurie White."
"From each prep nurse in the OR to every admissions clerk, each employee I encountered was kind, patient, and understanding of my needs. I had a wonderful hospital experience."
