Getting ready to file an appeal....

Does anyone have any experience in filing appeals with Medicaid? Here is my situation. In early August I got a letter of denial from Medicaid. They basically said I had not shown enough motivation to lose weight. They also rhetorically asked would I not be in better position to have surgery if I lost 5 to 10% of my body weight prior to surgery, etc. 1) My highest weight in February of this year was 351 pounds, but somewhow it was reported on the original application for approval that it was 341. My current weight is about 330, so I HAVE lost just under 6% of my body weight. 2) Over the spring and early summer I went to diabetes awareness classes. As part of the instruction I was put on a 2200 calorie per day diet. The stated goal was control of my diabetes and not weight loss. When my diabetes remained out of control they put me on a 2700 calorie per day diet. 3) I have seen my nutritionist twice since then and went on another diet with the goal of weight loss. I averaged 1600 calories per day. My major problem was finding foods that were healthy and still low calorie, but I stuck to it. My nutritionist said she would recommend that I be approved for surgery. 4) I am going to see a Psychologist about food addiction. I use food as a crutch I think. When I am stressed I used to go buy food, lots of it. Often I wouldnt even eat it or I would eat it over 2 or 3 days. I have not done that in 4 months but I need to find out why I do that. 5) I have an elliptical walker in my home. I walk on it about 5 to 10 times per week, as long as my knees arent hurting. I have joined the local YMCA as they have two swimming pools and a full compliment of exercise equipment. My surgeons office doesnt generally do appeals although the patient rep there said she would try to help me with writing it. I am trying to show them that I am serious about this and motivated to succeed after surgery. Ive done everything I could think of to show my motivation. Can you think of anything else?

There are several good appeal letters on this website...maybe that would help? Good luck! Phyllis