[Porthardygurl]

I have done a lot of research on surgeries in Mexico and care facilities and the different surgeons and their background. I feel very confident in the surgeon and the hospital I chose. There have been many forums where I have browsed and seen people who have had the same procedure done at the same place that I was looking at doing mine. So i feel good about it now..Its not cheap..but considering that I averaged out the cost of me being obese to averaging a cost of 25,000$ over a period of 5 years..I think its going to save me some money in the long run..

[blinks]

Hi Porthardygurl -
I am currently in the program through Dr. Sampath & Dr. Nguyen in Richmond which is a fantastic program which requires you to meet with a dietician, a occupational therapist, and a kinesiologist through the 'Physical Activity Line' (Free service for British Columbian's - check it out). Currently their waitlist for MSP funded options (both sleeve and RNY) are around 2 years for surgery.
As I am sure you've heard before, the amount of mental and physical work that helps to ensure long term success takes time. I am going through a 12 week course right now through the surgeon's office called 'Changeways" that helps to identify and change disorted and negative thinking, goal setting and stress management, and healthy and sustainable lifestyle management.
Perhaps in the mean time while you explore options, getting involved with Dr. Sampath & Nguyen would at least preserve the local and free options for yourself should you consider them in the future.
I empathize with your situation, I am as well a grad student and costs were a serious obstacle, however just going through the surgeons office (westcoastbariatric) has totally changed my behaviours and mindset and things have become so much easier and clearer resulting in a 22lbs lost in 8 weeks. Hopefully I will have surgery this summer and all the work that I have put in ahead of time will serve me the rest of my life. I wish you all the best