Hello!

I am twenty years post roux en y. It has been quite a journey! I have not sought advice, really, until now. I live near Klamath Falls, Oregon. I need to find a medical provider who understands the implications of gastric bypass surgery. In the alternative, I need to know what to tell a "regular" provider, to prompt them to look into my particular cir****tances, and stop treating me like any other 57 year old woman. Any suggestions in either area will be much appreciated!

Backstory: I have, several times since my surgery in 2004, become severely anemic. This condition results in symptoms that I now easily recognize, such as breathlessness, weakness, anxiety, and weird cravings, among others. It took me a number of years, and perhaps seven blood transfusions, to learn that I mus****ch my intake of B-complex, potassium, magnesium and iron, and not drink alcohol (I am twelve years sober now, but that is a story for another time). I have been fine for many years, bit recently began seeing the anemia symptoms returning. I have also been diagnosed, years ago, with heart failure, due to two faulty valves. These do nothing to help. Due to my cir****tances, I have not had access to the supplements I need. I know what is wrong. I simply have no way to purchase the solution.

I have reached a crisis point. I can walk only a few feet, before I must stop to catch my breath. I feel a lot of mental fog. My heart beats very erratically. I confess that I am frightened. So, I went to Urgent Care on Friday, and to the E.R. on Saturday. Both places did the same thing, and gave the same advice. They did an EKG, a chest xray, and a blood panel. All came back "normal." That is, if you consider a hemoglobin count of 10 normal. But, I was at rest, and it is only with mild exertion that my heart begins to dance. They each told me to find a primary care provider, and work with him. Waiting lists here exceed six months.

Today is Monday. On Wednesday I must travel to my son's wedding. Once there, I must somehow be myself. I cannot think how to accomplish this! I cannot even imagine carrying my bag to the train! And, of course, dropping dead during the very formal event will not be appropriate.

What in the world can I do? What can I say to the uninformed practitioners here, to make them understand? I do not drive, and therefore, whatever I do must be done locally.

Your input will be invaluable. Thank you!