Feelings of guilt..........

At this point, I am awaiting approval from my insurance company for my lap band surgery.  However, I am having doubts as to whether or not I am doing the right thing.  My husband's hours have been cut slightly, as well as mine, out our jobs. 
I am somehow feeling that what I am embarking upon is selfish, and not financially smart at this point.    Even with insurance approval, there will be a portion left for self pay. 
i am just wondering if there are others of you out there who have felt like this prior to your surgery, and how did you deal with that.
Medically, I have no doubts about what I need to do.  I just can't seem to convince myself that it is financially wise at this point.  Do I make any sense?  Sorry to have rambled..........just pondering my future tonight................
thanks everyone for "listening".

Hey,

I don't think there's anything wrong with you questioning your decision.  These are scary times right now!  I completely understand though,  because I just received a pay cut the week before my surgery date.  I called the hospital (since that's where the majority of the bill will be) to make sure they understood my situation with the pay cut and could I make payments.  Their financial director talked to me about it and said they'd be happy to work with me on this. 

I felt like financial my decision to have surgery was going to be economical in the long run.  Fewer or no prescription medication, fewer visits to the doctor and in some cases (not mine in particular) better premiums for health insurance for having a lower BMI.

I can't tell you what to do, nor would I.  I can however tell you that you aren't alone in your feelings and what's right for you will soon reveal itself!

Best of luck!

Michelle

It's totally norrmal to be asking yourself these questions.  As for me, I'm the only one working in my family since my husband is disabled.  I had good insurance but still had to pay about $2000 out of pocket. THe hospital worked with me and I paid about $50 a month until I had the bill paid.  I was spending about $150 a month on prescription meds before surgery; by 3 months post-op I was spending about $4 a month.  This surgery has changed my life so much for the better in the way I feel physically and mentally. 

You have chosen a wonderful surgeon and medical practice.  The practice will also work wiht you on a payment plan.   You've gotten this far, I think you should go for it but only you can make that decision.  Pary about it and the right answer will come!

Alice

I think it is perfectly normal to have some anxiety before surgery. I think most people do. Wondering whether this is the right decision and whether you will lose the weight. Like Michelle said you can make payments on the portion you have to pay.

Please go thru this for yourself. I know people that have backed out and then regretted it and had to reschedule the surgery and there was a lot of anxiety waiting on the new date.


Tamara

I bet it wouldnt be less expensive to have the surgery than pay for the health costs if you dont. It has lowered my bills some

I think you need to list the pros and cons of having the surgery.  There is the financial cost, but health is important (physical and mental) I know for me since I have lost 35 lbs pre-op I am a happier person with more energy.  I have surgery in 2 weeks and even though I am scared I am also excited for the new journey I am about to start.

I can compare this situation to having children if I would have waited until I could have afforded it I wouldn't have the wonderful son I have now/

I wish you the best with your decision.

I agree with the comments that the others have made. You will also need to budget for the requisite fills. Check with the Dr's office to see what they will run, so that you can budget them in. 

 

You are worth this.....it's hard for us women to spend money on ourselves, but WLS is an investment in your health and happiness.  For once in your life, put yourself first, and take care of you!  ((((HUGS)))))

Thanks to each of your for your responses.  I appreciate the words of encouragement and wisdom more than you know!  and lisa, you hit the nail on the head!  i always put everyone else ahead of myself, and feel guilty doing something for ME!  i guess i need to look at this as doing something for THEM also, because they will have a healthier, more productive wife and mother when I get this weight off!
Again, thanks to each of you!  you are an awesome group!

Dee,  You got great advice, but I just wanted to chime in my comment since spending the money was one of the hardest things for me regarding having the surgery done.  I am ridiculously frugal to a fault and have the hardest time spending money on myself for anything.  Lisa's comment was right on point!  :)  Hind-sight now tells me that it was sooo worth every penny!  Good luck!