Insurance Question - Please Help

I've decided like many of you to have WLS. I currently have Regence ValueCare (BCBS of Utah) on an individual policy as my employer does not offer health benefits. In my policy it lists WLS as an exclusion. I've talked to my insurance agent and he says that sometimes they will approve WLS if it is proved medically necessary. My questions are: 1. Has anyone been in a similar situation and been approved? 2. Where WLS is written as an exclusion should I go through the appeals process or am I setting myself up for devastation? 3. Are there any other resources to pay for WLS without having to take out a loan? 4. As an exclusion I know I will be denied at first. Should I contact my insurance and ask them about WLS or should I just have my WL surgeon's office submit the paperwork first? I could really use some help and hope that someone out there has some answers. Thanking you in advance, Christine

Hello well I am here to tell you you are not a lone I went thought the same thing for 5 years!! and than one day they said YES!!! I am now out 6 months and doing great 155 pounds down!! I can tell you to fight fight fight!! I did I never stop you need to bug them so much they can't stand it have your dr send in the paper work you send in all the paper work you have and anything you have ever tride to lose wieght it all helps and good luck if you have anymore ??? just ask I am to help!!!