My referral for WLS sent last week but I was laid off yesterday - no more coverage

Hello everyone, I'm really stressed out and concerned.... Last week my primary doctor submitted my referral for WLS to my insurance (Blue Shield of California) as he considers me to be a great candidate for surgery (BMI of 51). Unfortunately I was completely shocked when I went to work  yesterday (Friday) and was informed I was permenantly laid-off and my health insurance coverage would end April 30th, 2007. Aside from the fact that I have no job, I'm currently going through a nasty divorce and am in debt up to my ears... my pending surgery (if approved) was really the only thing I had to look forward to in my miserable life. I don't know what to do at this point. Does anyone know if I pay for my coverage via Cobra (which I'm not too familar with) woudl I have the exact same coverage as before? Also, do I need to notify my insurance to continue to process my request for surgery even though my coverage ends on Monday (April 30th) but I have 60 days to decide if I want to continue with COBRA. I hope this post makes sense. I'm just feeling so completely overwhelmed and hopeless - I really hate my life right now and I wanted so badly to have something go right for me for a change... Any info, opinions or advice would be TRULY appreciated...

They should be offering you COBRA?  

If you elect Cobra the coverage will be exactly the same as the policy you currently have.  You're still under the group plan while under Cobra.  The difference is the premium payment.  Under Cobra you will be liable for the full payment.  You can find out these amounts by adding what you currently pay plus what your employer contributes for your monthly premiums.   Good luck!

thanks so much for your advice! I feel much better knowing I'm not completely out of the game yet :) Thanks again!