Question:
Off Topic, Life Insurance Question...

As some of you may know, my husband and I are scheduled for surgery (he's next month, and i'm in March). About a month ago, we applied for life insurance and were turned down due to my husband's height/weight and because he has diabetes. Well now, he's having second thoughts on having the surgery because of that (afraid to leave me with nothing if he dies during surgery). Well, I know having the surgery is a personal choice, and I will not pressure him. But I did bring up the point that after surgery, chances are his diabetes will go away with the excess weight and he would qualify then. My question is... do/did any of you have life insurance before your surgery, having diabetes and being MO? If so, would you tell me what life insurance company you used (you can just e-mail me if you'd like). Much appreciated!    — sunneegirl (posted on January 22, 2004)

January 22, 2004
Unfortunately, it works both ways. I wanted to buy life insurance AFTER wls, but was denied specifically and solely because of the gastric bypass I'd had 3 months before -- even though I have no co-morbidities, was a relative "lightweigh" to begin with, and have been successful in my weight loss to-date. Ironic, isn't it?
   — Biking O.

January 22, 2004
I could not get life insurance before surgery with most companies. One company was willing to ensure me but the cost was WAY high. I have some insurance thru my company though so at least I had some.
   —  SCbabe B.

January 22, 2004
I too went through the life insurance battle. I applied for insurance after my surgery and was denied. I had to wait 2 years from the date of my surgery to finally get covered. I also had to sign release forms for the company to obtain my medical records from my Surgeon. I guess I was fortunate in that nothing happened before I could attain insurance! Good Luck!
   — Chloe S.

January 23, 2004
Even if you could find someone who would insure your husband, at this point, it's too late. They will have a waiting period which will exclude his surgery. You probably could find a co. if you looked hard enough and were willing to pay super high premiums. Just look for a high risk insurer. However, if he's to go ahead in March, it's a moot point. Generally the waiting period is 6 to 12 months for benefits to pay out for death from elective surguries, suicide and a few other things that I can't remember at this point. What you need is a darn good independent insurance agent to discuss this with. Perhaps someone can refer you to one in your community. Good luck, whatever you decide.
   — LMCLILLY