Need Help !!!!!!!! Please !!!!!!!!

Hello Everyone,it's been a long time since I have been on or posted.It soon will be 2 years since I had my surgery and it's not going well.My lowest weight has been 220 lbs. and currently I weigh 236 lbs.I have not had a fill since 2003 and I do'nt have any support from any one.This should still be a happy time for me because I got married for the first time in June.But things are really hard for me right now and I don't know what to do.I had my surgery done in Jackson and Voc. Rehab. paid for it.I have contacted several doctors,about getting a fill,but it cost $400 to$500 to get one and I don't have the money for it.Voc.Rehab has closed my file.I just need some advice and support. Help!!!!!!!!!!!

Hi Sarah--Sorry, I dont know much about the lap band. I didnt realize the fills were so expensive and nor did I realize you had to have them forever. I do not know what to tell you. I wish that I could help. Good luck and I hope it works out. Will Voc Rehab reopen your case?

Hey Sarah, I dunno anything about fills and such, but are you military related? What, if any insurance, do you have? Have you gone to your PCP and asked him for help? Have you called UMC (is that were you got it?) They do have a financial assistance program. Talk to Voc rehab about reopening your case or opening another one. Hang in there, girl, we will find you some help or at least some support. Please post again and keep us informed. I will be out of town tomorrow and Friday, but if you email me your phone number, I will call you and we can talk. Lemme hear from you. SMooch Arlies

Hi Sarah. Maybe what little bit I know will help. I do know Voc. Rehab. no longer pays for Lap Band in MS that is, because they don't think that it works or is long lasting. Generally when you get them it includes three to four fills I think, so yours wasn't included . Is it any way possible to save a little at a time. Guess what UMC do have a financial assistant program But good luck on when you can get it done. Check out our previous posts with UMC, there doctors are limited in that department. I know you are and feel you have know where to go. So here is a little of encouragement, contact Voc. Rehab. and your case worker you had first if possible. There is a chance they can reopen it because they helped you the first time and they don't want you back in the same boat, that would be a . Secondly contact UMC and see if it can be done there and ask for their assistant program. Hope this I tried to give you several options.

Hey Sarah, I don't know what to say. Like Arlies said, I'd try Voc Rehab again or FA at the UMC. Hope it all works out well for you though !!! Tammy

Sarah, You can probably get some assistance from the patient financial services at UMC and get Dr. Salahame to get you a fill, because he not only does the RNY but he also does the lap band so if you would like the numbers to try to get into contact with them just email me and I will be more than happy to help in any way possible. God Bless, Angie Bea

Sarah, I also dont know much about the lap band. I know how upset and scared you must be though. Just know that we are here for you and I pray you find a way to get your procedure done! Love ya Denise

Hi Sara. First-remember to breath. I can only imagine what you are going through, but breathing is always a good idea. The other options everybody has posted are great options. Are you (or a spouse) currently working? If so, it may work-out to claim on a cafeteria plan. If you don't have one through the employer - start one next year. Most medical manufacturers also have a patient assistance program, just like pharmaceutical companies. Call your surgeon's office and ask if they know anything about this. If thay say no, then ask for the manufacturer's name and information and contact them yourself and explain the cir****tances. Remember, they also have a certain investiment in your doing well. And remember, breath. There are a lot of people pulling for you here!!! james.

I would like to say a (BIG) Thank You,to all my new found friends for all the advice and support that you written to me.I could feel all the love and concern.It has put a on my face.It's nice to know that there are people out there *****ally care about you. Again,Thank You All. I'll keep you all posted.