need information

I don't know where to start. I have a cousin that is around 52 years of age. She is under 5 feet tall. I estimate that she probably weighs at least 400-500 lbs. She does not work, because she can't. Her husband does not have medical insurance. If she doesn't do something about the weight she is going to die. She can barely walk and has problems with her legs.

Does anyone know of an organization or Doctor that would do the surgery for free in a case like this. I am willing to help her find someone . I have had the lap band surgery and have lost 70 lbs. I just would like to save her life.

If she is on disability or Medicaid/Care they might cover it, but I'm afraid I don't have any details.

Also, keep in mind that she really has to "want it" to be successful long term.

Good luck to you and to her.

If she can't work, she probably qualifies for Social Security Disability - which comes with Medicare. My Medicare approved me without having to jump through any hoops or go on any kind of pre-op diet - simply based on my BMI (it was definitely lower than your cousin's by what you describe). The only thing not covered was the surgeon's fee, which ran me $2500 (YMMV). This was taken care of by savings bonds that my grandmother has been purchasing for me since I was a teenager. Perhaps your cousin could find a family member to help or even take out a loan for that cost. I definitely feel good that I used my savings for this life-saving surgery - no regrets at all!

Now, it does take six months for your benefits to be approved, but once they are, everything is back-dated, so if there was a way she could afford to pay out of pocket right now, she will be reimbursed. If she does end up having to wait out the six months, it would be a good opportunity for her to get started trying to lose some weight on her own so surgery will be safer.

Whatever she decides to do, I wish her the very best & am happy she has such a caring cousin looking out for her!

I found out her husband does have medical insurance through Walmart. They won't pay for the surgery, no matter what health problems she has.

she is not eligible for Social Security benefits, because she has not worked enough.