Question:
I appealed and now have gotten a letter.............

I appealed and now have gotten a letter saying a Grievance/Appeal committee will review and respond to my request. They have set a date for middle of November in a town about 2 hours from here. It says I can also Teleconference in (I think). My question is, has anyone else had to do this - and should I go (will it increase my chances of getting approved?) - I am not really sure what they will be doing, just discussing my case/appeal letter? I don't want to screw this up, its been months of hassle just getting this far. Can anyone give me some advice? Thanks Kristie    — Kristie M. (posted on October 30, 2002)

October 30, 2002
Kristie, I have not ever been in your situation, but I would go if it were me. I know that it is inconvientant to go 2 hours but I would want to show that this surgery is that important to me. Also maybe they will have questions that you could answer if you are there. Like I said, I have never been in your shoes but am just putting in my 2 cents. Godd luck and God Bless what ever you decide to do. <><
   — garnet156

October 31, 2002
Thanks Toni - I am still undecided about what to do. I would have to get off of work which will be a pain because we are so far behind - BUT this means so much to me. I don't want to go and have it be a total waste of time either, or be unprepared. Has ANYONE had to do this?????? Thanks Kristie
   — Kristie M.

October 31, 2002
Absolutely GO to the appeals hearing. A picture is worth a thousand words. Also, write down a list of EVERYTHING that bothers you, not just the traditional co-morbidities (if you have any) but things like becoming short of breath after walking so many feet, problems getting dressed and taking care of personal hygiene, how hard it is to sit in a regulation type seat, plane, train, or bus seat, restrictions you have at home and at work because of your weight, etc. Be specific - give them examples of things that happen. No letter or doctor's report can replace what they will see and hear from you. Cry if you have to, beg if you have to. Make them feel sorry for you. Remind them that getting this surgery will save them money in the long run because you won't need all those medical services that result from your being overweight. Think of being a defendant testifying before a jury - so much of what you say and how you appear will affect their decision. You can do it!!! Good luck!
   — Arlene S.

November 1, 2002
Thank you so much for the words of advice. I have decided to go once I get it approved from work to have off. I am such a HORRIBLE speaker and get nervous just thinking about this - I am scared to death about talking in front of these people (10 of them is what they said will be there). I hope I don't screw this up!
   — Kristie M.

November 1, 2002
Kristie, on my profile I have a list of reasons why I want to have this surgery. I made this list and gave it to my surgeon along with all my other papers. I don't know if he even read it but it helped me know what I wanted to say if he asked me any questions. Maybe you could make a similar list before the hearing. The better prepared you are the better you will be able to speak to these people and the better your confidence will be. Good Luck and God Bless. Email me at [email protected] if you think I can be of some help! <><
   — garnet156