My Bariatric Advocate...Tina, says that ikt couldnt hurt to send a letter in with my paperwork..so I am pasting it here. Please comment on what you think:

May 6, 2009

I am writing this letter to beg that you consider allowing me to have the Lap- Band surgery for morbid obese members. I have always been a little overweight since a child. I was overweight as a teen, college student and now at thirty-five, I find myself combating every disease and condition that will most likely end my life. I have high cholesterol and I am diabetic, type 2. In October of 2008, I was admitted into the hospital for high blood pressure at. My weight is 250 @ 5’5”, with a BMI over 40.

I have tried to fight this disease for over 4 years, with high sugar levels and I fear that I may be losing. Even on medication, my blood pressure can still hit dangerous spikes from any emotion that I have. I am afraid and I know that I have tried everything to get this weight off of me. I have lost weight and gained it back, feeling like a failure every time. I didn’t know what, whatever is in my will, that I could possibly do to improve my condition and control my appetite. I am ready to make a real change in my life and my overall health.

I am asking, along with my years of documented seeking of help, that I be considered for the lap-band surgery. I asked my doctors years ago to work with me so that I would meet all of the requirements that Blue Cross Blue Shield would require. I have met almost every appointment that was scheduled except for those times when I just didn’t have the co-pay. I am very serious about improving my health and adding years to my life. I am 35 and I need the added support that the lap band surgery can offer to my commitment of losing weight. Thank you for your care and consideration in health.

NiaNikole...