What a Battle...

My Neuro- made the appt. for  Dr. Chapman here in Greenville. I was very glad because my Pseudotumor Cerebri is getting worse and they fear I could go blind if I don't get some weight off fast ((I am allergic to the medicine used to treat the disease). I have federal blue cross and I will be 22 in October. When I turn 22 I will be dropped from blue cross (even thought I am still a full time student) and go on my mother's insurance. It's called Atena? Blue Cross would pay for it but Atena only does in some cases. I do have a medical problem and was told this is pretty much my only option because I am too heavy for a Shunt. My question is; Has anyone with Aetna actually had this surgery and they helped pay for it? I am I working against impossible odds?? My appopint with Dr. Chapman is Octomber 24th. The day is my Birthday, so this is all Bittersweet. If I can't get insurance to pay for this then I will have to find other options. I have 3 reccomendations by 3 different DR's stating I need this surgery.  If you have all the proof in the world is it hard to get them to approve you? I'm just so confused took me so much to get the appt. and now I find out about my Blue Cross being dropped... Thanks for any info! Meagan

Meagan, my sister has the same type of tumor and is had just started the blindness. She was also told to loose the weight, but she was able to have some pressure on her brain relieved, but now, 2 years later, it' starting again.  She's 39.  I am glad that your Dr.'s are recomending this surgery to help save your sight.  Bummer on the insurance, but thankfully you will have your mom's insurance.  Have your mom call the insurance and see what they cover.  Who knows, maybe you'll get done before your birthday?  I'd call your insurance too and ask, doesn't hurt.  Just ask for all the details, insurance ppl who sometimes answer the phone I think get lazy and just say, yeah, it's covered, but don't go into the "but only if's..........."  The more Dr.'s saying you need the surgery is good in your favor!  Don't think of your birthday as bittersweet, it may be your "re-birthday" and the start of a new life!  I hear Dr. Chapman is wonderful!!  Good luck and let us know as things progress. Nancy