Cant work...No insurance...fighting Social Security...

My name is Alex Nichols and I live in Oklahoma. I am 24 yrs. old, 5'8" and 466 lbs. I have Sleep Apnea, High Blood Pressure, Type II Diabetes, Pickwickian Syndrome and am Morbidly Obese. My doctor's have not let me work in a year and tell me that Gastric Bypass is my only option to live. I applied for Social Security in August 2004 and have been denied once in April 2005. I appealed their decision. I now have lawyers working to get me SS Benefits. Oklahoma's Voc-Rehad doesn't pay for WLS anymore so that option is out. Does anyone know of any surgeons willing to help or willing to work with me? Please, any advice will help. Thank you.

what about medicare? and what about a medical loan? They have lawyers that I found out on OH that do WLS cases. I'll see if I can find out more info on their names.

Hello Robbin, thanks for the reply to my topic. Medicare is what I need but I can only get it through Social Security Disability. Since I am not working and have probably the worst credit out of anyone I know, I would most likely not be approved for any type of loan. I have lawyers working my case and it makes it a year this month since they took over. Im at a loss....

Hi Alex I just wanted to say HI...I'm from Kansas but lurk around on the state messageboards nearest to me. I, too, am battling to get my Social Security disability. It seems as though it is taking forever. Mine has been in the hands of an attorney for over a year now. I know it will come through, I just have to make myself try to stay positive about it. Like you, I have also been told that if I don't get this weight off, I will die. Don't give up!! Anyway, just wanted to say hi, and let you know I'm here if you ever need to talk. Have a great day. Hugs Theresa

Hey there....thanks for posting. It makes me feel better to know that I am not alone in this battle. And that is exactly what it has been....a battle. Do you think any city, state, or federal government officials would go without having a life-saving AND life-changing surgery?? I seriously doubt it....I hope that one day everyone will be able to receive the medical procedures they need....regardless of economic standing....

I think I am confused. You have to have ssi to get medicare health insurance. I thought I knew a couple people who had medicare without getting SSI. Maybe I am wrong.

Medicare is a Federal health insurance program for people 65 years or older, certain people with disabilities, and people with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Medicare has two parts -- Part A, which is hospital insurance, and Part B, which is medical insurance. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a Federal income supplement program funded by general tax revenues (not Social Security taxes): It is designed to help aged, blind, and disabled people, who have little or no income; and it provides cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter. So SSI is income-based and doesn't pay for surgical procedures. Social Security Disability however does pay for medical needs. And you can only get Medicare if you are 65 years or older, disabled (which is what Im trying to get approved), and people with ESRD. Im pretty much at the mercy of the Government.

bummer alex. I was hoping things could work a little faster for you. After all the handouts I have seen while working in the public it is pathetic that someone in true need can't get help. I will pray for you. Let me know if I can help or encourage you in any way.

Thanks for your concern and any prayers you shoot my way will definately be appreciated....I will be sure to keep you posted on any progress I make.

Hi Neighbor! SSA has become so strict on approving disability that it takes a person up to five years to be approved. Since you are medically not able to work and have applied for SSD and SSI, try applying for medicaid. Its a long shot but might be worth it. Some of the free clinics here in the City might be able to help you to get the surgery. Just remember this you might be approved tomorrow for SSD but then it takes a few months to get medicare, and then you have to be approved by them for the surgery. I was one of the very few that was approved for Disability the first time I applied. Matter of fact I received my award letter 31 days after my application was sent in. In the mean time you can start reducing your food intake and eat more slowly so when you get the surgery you are able to handle the changes you have to make. I shall pray for you... GBU< pattye