Can I be a guinea pig?

Hello everyone, Are there any studies or programs in CT that offer the Lap Band surgery free?   Yeah I know I'm stretching it quite a bit but as the saying goes, "You don't know  until you ask".  My employer has chosen to exclude the WLS rider and I certainly do not have the money to pay for the surgery.  I'm not 100lbs overweight but my BMI is 37, have diabetes and sleep apnea.  Have tried numerous diets but haven't been successful.  My surgeon, Dr. Nadzam states I'm a perfect candidate but the insurance will not pay because of the exclusion.  I'm working all angles to get my employer (The Connecticut Hospice, Inc.) to pick up the rider but I think I may be wasting my breath. Can anyone offer some advice? Thanks, Maria LaPorta

HI Maria, I'm not sure about any studies being done in CT.  I think you'd have to do a Google search for "lap band studies" and they should come up.   Unless the lap band companies have a new and improved model that needs testing, or there's a new company with a new band, I don't see why there would be any other studies, unless they'd be ones that would "track" your progress for many years to come. You could also call around to several doctors to see if they do any "pro bono" surgeries for those in need.  It doesn't hurt to ask.  Just make sure if you do find someone, that it's a surgeon with experience. A teaching hospital may also be able to help you.  Med students need to learn and are under the wings of experience of knowledable  surgeons. Good Luck, paula

Thanks Paula for all your advice. Maria