| I had been searching for help for years. I weighed over 590 lbs., and had gone to five other surgeons and their informative sessions trying to get weight loss surgery. Three didn't take Medicare, and two had no interest whatsoever in someone with a BMI of over 80. I had pretty much given up hope.
Late one night I was searching the internet and came across Bariatric Solutions website. I had contacted several other surgeons websites using the "Contact Us" forms and never heard back from them. In desperation I sent an email to Bariatric Solutions, detailing my weight and insurance, never expecting a reply.
Early the next morning I received an email from Lacy, who was working for Dr. Bour at the time. First, I was astonished to get a reply, but secondly, I received the most encouraging correspondence I ever received in my life. I later printed that email out, framed it, and it hangs on my wall today. Lacy assured me that Dr. Bour wouldn't just write someone off, and also told me that there were surgical and nonsurgical alternatives, and that Bariatric Solutions could, and would, help in one way or another. That same email said send my phone number and she would call, and we talked further on the phone. I signed up for the next informative session that same day.
I came to the session, and after thinking about it, etc., signed up and committed myself to the program. That was July of 2008. It is now July of 2009, I am six months post op, 190 lbs. lighter, and feeling like a different person. I still have a long way to go, but I have lost right at half of what I need to lose. I am perfecting wise eating habits, exercising, walking (thats a miracle in itself) and beginning to enjoy life again.
All that said, one of the most important aspects of my experience with Bariatric Solutions has been the staff. From day one, I have always been treated with respect, dignity, and kindness. I actually leave every appointment or group session in better spirits than when I came. Believe me, that helps, because I drive two hours each way to come to Greenville. You know, even when there have been changes in the staff, it is always seamless and smooth, just like the newer folks have always been there.
However, I also appreciate that the dieticians, Dr. Calhoun, as well as Dr. Bour and Dr. Scott, and their assistants, can be tough when it is necessary. They are kind and considerate, but not pushovers. They tell it to you straight. Also, I have always had every question answered, and have never felt rushed, especially with Dr. Bour or Dr. Scott. I have always gotten calls back from anyone on staff, but I understand that most of them will be after 4:00 or 5:00. But they call back. Katie actually returned a call on Christmas Eve. I'll never forget that. Thank you. I also contact some by email and those are responded to as well.
The group sessions are extremely helpful, both before and after surgery. Honestly, they are indispensable. You will find the most encouraging, sympathetic, and empathetic ears and hearts within the walls of Bariatric Solutions. I have made friends with other patients, and receive encouragement from them and offer as much as I can to others. Through the group sessions, and especially through the dietician classes, I received and continue to receive, a lot of information; and knowledge is power. It is one of the most powerful tools I received to help me with my weight loss journey.
In closing, I just want to say thank you to the entire staff, but especially to Dr. Bour, Dr. Scott, Dr. Calhoun, Megan, Cammy, Katie, and Carmen, who I have met with the most.
K. W. Toccoa GA |
