Just starting this journey

I considered this surgery last summer but my PCP said he'd rather I didn't. I took that as a no. Tried another diet and failed. For the past week I've been investigating it further. I found that my insurance will cover it if I qualify. I have been overweight for the majority of my life and everytime I lose, I gain back more. It's slowly creaping up and up. I've tried about every diet craze, fad, pill etc. (haven't done hypnosis). each time I gain back more than I lost (and this has been over the past 10 or more years) I am attending a seminar in Des Moines this Saturday where I will receive an information packet, and then will be able to set up an initial consultation with a surgeon. I'm so excited I can hardly sleep just thinking about it. (I can't imagine what I'll be like if I actually get to have the surgery). My biggest fear right now is being rejected. So...I don't think I have to ask if the journey is hard. But is the journey worth it? Kelly

Welcome Kelly Yes this surgery has risks. Read my profile and you'll see I've had my share of complications but I would still say YES, it's worth it. Being morbidly obese is much worse than any of the surgical risks. This surgery gives you a second chance at life. Be aware though it's not a cure all, it's a tool that you have to use correctly. Make sure to explore all of the options. That said. Hope to see you here often Paula RNY Nov 01 300/129 lbs

Hi Kelly, You need to be sure to ask whomever you are thinking about using, what his/her statistics are. How many procedures, how many deaths, how many complications and what type of complications. You can ask on this board for recommendations on the surgeons here in DM. There are several people who live here. I am currently waiting for BC to give final approval. I had to have the psych eval before they would approve it. That was something I hope to never have to experience again, but then that's a another story! I am using Dr. Sundberg in Boone. Make sure whatever program you chose, they have good aftercare and support groups. Pre-op you should have the psych eval, nutrition and physical therapy consults. Check with your insurance carrier and ask to be set up with a case manager. I also have BC (NY). Your case manager will set up a pending case number and can tell you specifically what you need for documentation. This is also where your surgeon will need to sent the paperwork. The better you can document everything, the easier the approval process is. The big thing with my BC was a letter from my PCP. You may have a problem there if your's isn't on board with this. Good Luck! Lyn

Kelly, Hi and welcome. I don't have much new information to share with you that the other two ladies have not shared. I just wanted to say hello and with you luck in your journey. You have come to a great place for support!!! Keep posting so we can get to know you more! God bless, Andrea