I could use your prayers

My name is Terry and I am currently going through the appeal process with the Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC) in California. I am appealing Kaiser's decision to give me the VSG instead of the surgery I need, which is the DS. I need the DS for a couple of reasons: 1) I have widespread osteoarthritis for which I take NSAIDS (I also have tendonitis and fibromyalgia), and 2) I have a BMI over 50 and a purely restrictive procedure such as the VSG is not very successful for the SMO. There are no long term studies that support the VSG for persons with a BMI over 50. The DMHC has until January 13, 2008 to make a decision. All my paper work--2.5 inches thick!--is currently in the hands of the Independent Medical Review panel. I am asking for your prayers that God's will be done, and that I will receive notification as soon as possible. This has been going on for eight months now, and my health is deteriorating. My pain is at an all time high, and I am having difficulty with my breathing. My doctor believes that the shortness of breath is obesity related and has given me some Albuterol to help with my breathing. I thank all of you for your help.

Terry, I pray that God's will be done and whichever decision is made, it will be the best one for you. Shel

Thank you, Shel. I know that He knows my body and my needs best. I only want His will in my life, whatever the outcome. Merry Christmas to you! Terry

I will also be in prayer for you. God is in control, even though it may not seem so. Hugs, Trish

Hugs back to you, Tri****hank you for your prayers. It gives me such comfort and peace to know that He is in control of my life. I know that there are reasons why I've had to wait for an answer and I'm sure I will understand in time. Merry Christmas to you! Terry

I too will pray that you get a timely reply and that it would be for the surgery that will be most benificial for you. I too have fibro so know first hand how terribly painful it can be. God Bless! Karen

Thank you, Karen. Has your pain decreased since having surgery and losing weight? I think I will get some relief from the arthritis pain, but I don't know if I will get relief from the fibro. God Bless you too! Merry Christmas!

Hi, I'm only 2 mos. out from my lap band so haven't lost much yet. I've lost about 40 lbs. from when I was my heaviest and that has certainly helped the arthritis aspect. Unfortunately I doubt if the weight loss will help our fibro much because I know lots of skinny people who suffer greatly as well, but we can always hope. Any relief would be very welcome for all of us! Keep at it and we'll get there before we know it.

I know what you mean. Lots of skinny people suffer from arthritis too. How are you doing with the band? I am wondering if the band causes you any pain? The band is not a good option for me because I am too heavy, but pain from the band was a concern for me with my fibro. Hope is all we have to hold on to, so we'll keep hanging on! Take care, Karen.

I am praying for you!!!!! For healing and a quick and speedy answer!! Keep us updated when you hear anything!!! Welcome to the board!!!! God loves you!!!! ((HUGS))