I began this journey in March of 08'.  I have Tricare Prime insurance and got my referrals and started a bariatric program in NH.  After six months in the program, I found out I was denied for surgery.  The surgeon filed an appeal and was denied again.  Then we moved back to VA in July of 09' and I started the process all over again.  Started one program and found out Tricare made them do things that others did not.  I found a new program and started in January of this year.  My paperwork was submitted last Wednesday and I found out first thing this morning that Tricare approved me.  This is truly the greatest day of my life.  I now see the light at the end of the tunnel.  For anyone out there who has been denied, I just have to say to keep on trying.  Be persistent.  My surgery is scheduled for March 23rd.  That will be the first day of the rest of my life.  I used to post on the NH message boards but now that I'm back in VA I thought I'd start posting here.  I've been reading the VA message boards for a few months, but never felt the need to share until today.  I can't believe we almost decided to pay out of pocket and now everything will be covered.  So overjoyed.  So ecstatic.  Thanks for letting me share.