a couple questions if you don't mind.

I totally understand your struggle. I just turned 30 this year and have been obese all of my life as well. My surgery is in just a few short days!! I've recently heard that Mercy is paying for WLS, however it must be medically necessary and they have several hoops for you to jump through. Plus, I think each plan is different. I would definatly try it and appeal if it comes to that. Here's what I would recommend and it worked for me. I would prepare a letter to your insurance company stating why you feel like WLS is medically necessary for you. List all of your physical aches & pains, include a list of limitations (ie. difficult to walk, do daily living skills, etc). I would also prepare a list of all diets you have ever been on. When I typed my list, I listed them by types (example, liquid diets, organized diets, etc) and type a list of all the exercise programs you've tried. Be specific about the amount lost and amount regained, and the amount of time you were on each diet and/or exersice plan. Then I got copies of all my medical records to send with this letter and diet/exercise list. I also asked my physicians to write letters recommending the WLS. My insurance reviwed this whole packet I prepared and within just a few days they authorized my pre-surgical consult. I think they key is to give them as much information as possible. Angel