I need help finding resources!

I am a 39 year old mother of four. My youngest son is six and is Autistic. I do not have medical insurance, and I don't qualify for Medicaid because my son's SSI puts us just over the income guidelines. I need to find help to pay for surgery. My weight makes it difficult for me to care for my children, especially my son! I weigh about 400 lbs, and am only 5'3". My BMI is 70%. Does anyone have any ideas? I spoke to a social worker at one of the local hospitals, and she suggested I contact Obesity Help.

Deb, I don't know of any specific agencies to contact, but I do know that Deaconess Hospital in Cincinnati has about the most reasonable fee scale. I believe they also have payment plans...there are many people on this message board that have been through Deaconess and hopefully they will contact you. Meanwhile I will keep you in my prayers and hope some options come your way. Liz Hillsboro

This was posted earlier, but just so everyone knows, the hospital did raise our prices recently. We're still cheaper than most, but our price for the band is $16,500 (whi*****ludes a year of fills) and for lap bypass it's $19,500. Financing is available for the band (through the manufacturer) but not for the bypass. Good luck, Dr. C The Deaconess Surgical Weight Loss Center Cincinnati, Ohio (513) 559-2545

Hi Dr. C. I personally think the surgery is worth a million. There is nothing to much to get our lifes back. You gave me that the first day I called your office and you had a bad hand,talked me in to seeing the next day. I had the surgery within a month and now I am 19 lbs from goal. I can wear a medium pant,and large top. I wish I had met you 30 years ago. You saved my life big time. Of course you would have been 3 then.Thanks for everything, you are my angel.Cindy