Anyone in Monroe, LA?

I'm learning about WLS and trying to figure out if it's even an option for me. I live in West Monroe, LA and have heard 'rumors' that none of the bariatric surgeons here are good. I have Vantage through my husband's employer and from what I understand, it doesn't cover WLS at all. I also have Crohn's Disease, so I'm not sure any surgeon would actually take me. If one did, how could I pay for such an expensive surgery? We already have a lot of debt and our credit is not good, so I don't know how we could do it. In addition, I'm really kind of scared of the risks. I waver between really wanting to have surgery (if at all possible) and being totally terrified of it. I just looked at a video of us on vacation in AR......I was in a swimsuit. It makes me want to throw up. In my mind, I still feel like I'm 135. I'm almost 300 lbs. now. So here I am, online at 1:41am, looking for options. Can anyone help me with these questions/concerns? Thanks, Tracy

Tracy, I would call your husband's insurance company and get an answer directly from them. If the exclusion is not in writing in the poilcy, they might cover it. You can self pay with a loan. I heard that Capital One has medical loans. I have no regrets about having RNY as it saved my life. It is the best thing that I did for myself. Good luck with your decision and take care! Lynn J., lap RNY 9/29/04 306/146/135 5' 4"

Hi Tracy, I can't help you with the surgeons in your area but I can say there are some excellent ones here in Shreveport. Yes, it is a little drive but I would say worth the hour in half drive. Sometimes insurance companies do have a clause that bariatric surgery is not covered. Sometimes you can fight it based on medical necessity. It is well worth the fight, I had to do that. I am not real familiar with Crohns disease so I can help you on that issue. As far as the risks, I was more scared of the risks of not having the surgery done. I was relativly healthy but I have a strong family history of heart disease and diabetes. All of my dads family died in the 40's from heart disease plus both my parents had diabetes. I was a ticking time bomb. I am extremely happy with my results but I do have to say this surgery is not for all. If you do not have your mind in the right frame it can be very difficult. I firmly believe it was very successful for me because I had such a positive attitude. I knew my life was about to change dramaticly. I have had no problems giving up my food or sweets. The best thing you can do is to research this big time. I spent hours and hours on the computer prior to even seeing a doctor. I am talking from early evening to 3 or 4 in the morning almost every day for a good month. Hope I helped somewhat, Jodi

Hi Tracy, I read what you said about Crohn's disease and I've seen it listed as a contradiction for most types of wls and I've seen several cases of folks having DS, RNY and Lap-Band who have Crohn's. I thought I would pass on this thread from the band board because it does list OH members who have Crohn's Disease: http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/LapBand/action,replies/board_id,5359/topic_id,3073163/ca t_id,4959/a,messageboard/ Call the insurance company and get a direct statement yes/no about any exclusion and if there's an appeal process. I must tell you, most insurance companies and some doctors will want to see if you have "failed" at other weight loss methods -- diets, pills, weight loss programs -- before approval for surgery. I wish you well in your journey. Frances