This is all new to me

I am new to this. I have decided that I am going to do this and I am scared to death. Any words of wisdom that will help me along this road.

Hi Anna! First of all, you have made a very brave decision and don't let anyone else tell you otherwise. Second...research! Do your homework and find out as much as you can about your options as far as what surgery best suits you...whether it be bypass or lapband. Third, if you are wanting insurance to cover your surgery, call them and ask if it is covered under your plan...then have them fax you the list of criteria that must be met in order to be approved for the surgery. Then contact your primary care physician and tell him/her your plan and decision. Hopefully the doctor will support you on this because you will need a letter of recommendation from him/her. Look for a surgeon that best suits you and if you are going through insurance...find one that's covered. Attend a seminar put on by that surgeon and get a consultation scheduled. Make sure that your primary care physician only gives the letter of recommendation to the surgeon's office and not directly to the insurance as this could cause a delay depending on your insurance. It's a HUGE task and there's a LOT to do to get the ball rolling and accompli****but it's worth it. If you're planning on paying out of pocket...the headaches and hoops that you'd jump through for insurance are null. Still do your homework and research your options...attend a seminar...and so on. I also highly recommend that you attend a support group meeting and talk with some people who've been through this and have had different procedures...it helps...believe me it helps. Good luck on your journey!! Maria

Thank you so much for your help, This is a hard fact to face and getting some advice from anyone helps. I am a mother of two little boys and I would love to run and play too but this weight sucks. I have Tricare insurance and not to many hoops to go threw. Thanks agian. Anna

Anna - First, congratulations on your decision. It is truly a monumental and difficult one. I researched this surgery for over 18 months before making the decision to go through with it. The best advice I can give is to be kind to yourself and take the time you need to prepare. This is a difficult decision and I know that I was afraid of telling people, for fear that they would try to talk me out of it. I am thankful each and every day that I made this decision. My only regret is that I waited so long to do it! I can now keep up with my boys and feel like a whole person again. When you need a boost, or just someone to talk to, just come here and we will help you through! I found so much support on the boards that it made my life not only better, but more balanced. Best of luck to you. Cheri