Question:
I have been morbidly obese for most of my adult life; however, 5 years ago I used

starvation as a weight loss tool. I lost over a 100# and have gained it all back in the last 2 years. My insurance requires morbid obesity that has "persisted" for 5 years. I consider the last 2 years as a demonstration of a failure to keep the weight off, but medical records from the last 5 years will show that I was much lighter. My BMI has been 40 for the last 2 years. I don't want to have to stay MO for another 3 years, who knows how many years that will take off of my life!    — Brenda K. (posted on June 4, 2002)

June 3, 2002
Hi. All you can do is document your "starvation" diet with your PCP and ask him to write that letter of referral. All the more reason for the surgery. Best wishes on your journey.
   — Annie H.