Hey ya'll, Does anyone know for sure about whether Medicare will ever pay for the plastic surgery needed after this procedure. 207 lbs in 15-1/2 months does not leave a pretty picture. I know they won't "pre-approve"--they didn't the gastric surgery, but I already knew they had paid for the surgery for others. I need to know if anyone knows of any time (and the cir****tances) where they paid for the plastic surgery. I have not experienced much on the skin breakdown b/c I am very careful to take care of myself. However, the skin over the sides of my bra is getting really sore--almost like being bruised--not to mention the 3-1/2 inches of skin hanging below my upper arms and the skin that lays on my eyelids now. I'm hoping my working out 3-4 times a week will help w/the thighs that want to lay on my knees (really fun on the one that was replaced in January!) and the butt that wants to slap the back of my thighs every time I move, but the rest, I am afraid, is hopeless, barring a true miracle. Not a pretty sight, I'm afraid . Thanks for any info. Blessings, Cyndi

Hi Latunya, My soul was moved when I read your post. God Bless You!!!!! Many Blessings, Marilyn Lexington, KY 3/27/03 (-80lbs) Grand Total Loss: 104lbs.

LEDA, CONGRATULATIONS Many Blessings, Marilyn Lexington, KY 3/27/03 (-80) Grand Total Loss: 104lbs.

Ken - Belated Happy Anniversary! We share the same date! Congratulations on your awesome weight loss. My 20-year HS reunion is next year and I'm still on the fence as to whether I'm going to go it or not. Let me know how your reunion goes and what everyone says. Congratulations again! -- Wendy

Well it has been one year and a couple of weeks since my life changing surgery. I am officially 1/2 the person that I used to be. I have lost 132 lbs. and I weigh 132 lbs. When I think about it that way it seems unreal! My life has changed so much. I can now work full time. I am no longer diabetic and my kidneys are miraculously functioning normally. Just a year ago I was not sure if my kidneys would hold out. I am so greatful to my PCP for telling me that I needed to go this direction, and my surgeon who started my journey. I feel like my life will be a much longer, more fullfilling experience because of this. Leda