Rejected 3x, but now have more information....

I'm so frustrated I could scream, and confused too. My BMI was 38 the first 2 times I applied for approval and 39.5 the 3rd time, and each time they said the rejection was due to not having 40 for BMI and that my other issues were not weight related. Well NOW, I've gained 15lbs in 6 weeks due to some temporary steroids I was put on... and my BMI is now over 40 AND my LDL went from normal a few months ago, to 295 we just discovered. My Doc wrote a 2nd letter confirming his belief as to why I could benefit from the surgery, etc... confirming my BMI, cholesterol problems, etc... But I'm hesitating to submit it. I now have this eerie feeling that 3 rejections were for a reason and everytime I go against my gut feelings, I regret it. I'm thinking that's a deeply rooted sub conscious fear of the change myself, possibly anyway. Since I have the "official" guidelines to qualify, maybe I'm afraid they'll say yes. On the other hand, they've been jerks about it all along, so they probably STILL wont say yes. I also found out Dr. Spaw MAY not be in my network (BCBS EMPIRE our of NY) so therefore it would cost me a lot more out of pocket. So I need to check that out too. I just assumed he was since my Doc recommended him. ANyone else out there have to take 4 tries to get it approved? Any thoughts, words of wisdome.... I'll take it. This is driving my nutso. Thanks in advance. Sandi

Hi Sandi, I can totally understand your frustration. In the past year I have been denied 11x by the surgeons. I am still trying even though I just found out I have Leukemia. I had to cancel this week to see a surgeon, but I will see him in September. Don't give up, if you do, you may always wonder if you should have gone ahead with the surgery. Once you are obese, life is more down hill then being able to lose the weight and life life to the fullest. I know it's a scary thought, but you have to do what you feel is best for you. Knowing that I have all the co-morbilities along with leukemia makes me all the more determined to have the surgery. I want the energy and strength to fight this disease. Being morbidly obese (276) I have no energy. I have to take 16 different medications, which only 5 will be paid for thru TnCare. I can't afford the rest. So before you give up, ask yourself do you want to get worse with the illnesses that come with being obese, or do you want to live a happy fulfilled life. I wish you all the best in your decision. Submit your paperwork. What can it harm? May God travel with you on your journey. Kathy