Mochapj

Hi, I'm in South Orange County, CA and would love to have a buddy. I was reading an article about the comic strip Peanuts this morning. Charlie Brown said to Lucy, "I'm lonely. What should I do?" Lucy responded, "Get some friends." So I'm trying to get some friends. I'm at the beginning stages of checking this out. I'm getting great support from the few friends I've shared this with, but the family??? Not so much.

@Wicked..., That's who I'm consulting with as well. He comes highly recommended from my insurance company. In addition, the receptionist at my PCP's office went to him many years ago and loved him. I'd love to hear what you think. I go for my H&P there tomorrow morning and am hoping for a good experience as well.

Hi, I'm in Mission Viejo. So far the closest one I've found is in Fountain Valley, but I'd love to walk through this with you. I am just getting started. Hugs,

Hi all, After almost 10 years at my job, in the worst economy of my lifetime, I quit a couple of months ago to stay home and spend more time with my family. That was a big risk for me but it is working out fantastic. One night not long ago I realized that I could actually have WLS without having to worry about taking time off work. Enter risk #2. I went to an introductory seminar yesterday and I am convinced that lap-band is the right solution for me. Now to convince the insurance company. My BMI is around 37 and I don't have any of the big 4 co-morbids. I sure could use a lot of advice, support ... whatever to keep me focused and help me finally succeed! Hugs!!

I contacted my insurance company and was able to view their specific requirements. That, plus a conversation with my program assistant, left me feeling pretty encouraged. I go for my H&P tomorrow morning. Perhaps I'll wear some Mr.T bling and perhaps a little cement in my shoes to put me at the 40 BMI mark. (JK)

@Renee, I'm so excited for you!!! Sounds like you are almost there! All, thank you for the suggestions and words of encouragement. I'm feeling more hopeful this morning. :sneaky:

@Icequeen, Was that in the U.S.? If yes, what state? I'm in Southern California. I'm pretty sure that is going to drive up the price.

@Icequeen, I never even considered self pay, although I think it's probably out of reach for me at this time. I saw somewhere else on the forum to ask my insurance company for specific requirements. I did just that and will see where it goes from there. I'm hoping that there is some flexibility/creative qualification, but I will have to accept whatever decision I get. I am NOT willing to go to Mexico or Costa Rica for surgery. Any clue what self pay goes for? Thanks!

@Betsy, I did a little more reading on the forum and did exactly what you suggested. I contacted my insurance company and asked them to send me specific approval requirements. Interested to see what they have to say. :-) Thanks!

Hi all, I went to my first informational seminar yesterday and I really think this is the right move for me. Like some of you, my BMI is under 40, and I don't have any of the "big 4" co-morbids. I was informed yesterday that my insurance may require I show 6 months of supervised weight loss. C'mon people, I've been fighting this for 15 years! The receptionist at my primary doctor's office had surgery several years ago by the same practice I visited yesterday. I'm hoping she has some tips for me. I sure hope I get approved. We have good insurance through IBM,it's BlueCross/BlueShield, but I'm still nervous. Do you know if there are any groups on Facebook?