You know what's crazy about all this.....

I have been studying about WLS for 2 years....that's typical of the average WLS patient. I have had my consult with my surgeon (who is in Chicago, IL, though I live in Springfield, IL), I have had my sleep study (which confirmed sleep apnea), my pulmonary study(which confirmed COPD~~like emphysema), I have had all my blood tests, my psych exam, I have lost 30lbs, had an IVC filter placement (for potential blood clots), live on SSD because of my problems, have been accepted for the surgery, but cannot get back to Chicago to have my final consult OR my surgery because of financial reasons (I do not have reliable transportation to get me to and from). I am absolutely devastated!! I have quit smoking, am still dieting and had the IVC filter for nothing because I cannot find a way to have the surgery or second consult. Thank you for anyone who has taken the time to read this. Sorry to vent!!! Barb

Barbara I told you I would be happy to take you up there if you need to!! If you can work it out with your surgeon, just let me know and I will be happy to see what I can do! Call me anytime - I will Email you my numbers Patty

patty I think it is so awesome that you can help her out. I was thinking about you and sassy when I read this! I just really think it is great that this is real support!!!! have a great day I really hope she takes you up on this offer... too come so close. She just can't give up... I know dee

Hey, I noticed you joined the Y. Is it the one in Springfield?? I belong to the Y also, so I would be happy to meet you sometime and work out together. We can both encourage each other! Let me know what your schedule is.

I would even be willing to give you a ride.. though it would take me quite a BIT longer to get where you are hehe

Hello there. If your travel arrangements don't work out with this website, I have another idea. Have you tried local churches? I know that most local churches are willing to lend a hand if they are asked. You would need to contact the pastor or priest and explain everything to them. Most churches have funds set aside to help people (even if they don't belong to that particular church). Most of the time there would be spiritual support as well as financial. You might even find some friends for life. Just another avenue to explore.. Dy

Barb, Don't know if this will help but if you have a IL. Public aid card or medicaid they can get your trasportation free to Chicago! It must be a medical DR, which wls is. You can also gets rides to and from the Dr right there in your home town to the Dr's, free of charge. First you have to have a Dr appointment Then call first Transit at 1-877-725-0569, you will need your Dr's name. address. phone numbe.r date of appointment ect.. First transit will give you numbers of the transport companies in your area call them ask about Chicago, if none of them will take you that far email me back and I will take you to Chicago. I own a medical transport company, we are 1.5hrs from Springfield Il Near St Louis But if you get approval from first transit I will take you to Chicago if you can't find a company in your area to take you! I am sure First Transit will find you someone in your area to take you to the Dr in Springfield! Good Luck! See ya lighter! Cyndi