Veda

I found out today that the Aetna plan my employer uses does not cover WLS. I live in Orange County and would like to ask those of you who are willing to answer this: What did self-pay cost you? AND, did the amount you were quoted cover everything or was the hospital in addition to the cost you were given? I have an appointment with a group in Newport Beach that charges $18K all inclusive. Thank you!

I am going to attend an information session tomorrow that I registered for with this same doctor. A staff member I've been talking to at Dr. Q's office told me that if there are complications, and it is medically necessary to have further treatment, insurance should cover it. My insurance does not cover any of the surgery so I will self pay. Like you, I can pay for the surgery, but not a six-figure hospital stay. I plan on asking this question again tomorrow.

After sending you a PM tonight, I read some other posts on this website in the forum VSG Complications and Support (or something like that). You might want to do a search of the name of your doctor on this site and read what some people were saying tonight. Since I had read your post earlier, I thought I should let you know. At least, I would like someone to do the same for me. It would minimally give me a reason to make a list of questions to ask about procedures used.

There's a difference between sharing and advocating. I find it helpful when a medical professional opens up and shares - it makes them more human I think. It's safer for a lot of people to hear, and talk, about personal things with a kind professional instead of a friend or family member. I think you did an honorable thing!

Perhaps giving your family some time to adjust to this news might be helpful. If there are group meetings close to you, your parents could attend so they can learn more of the facts together with family members of other potential patients. It's pretty strange to find out who is supportive and who is not. In the end, those who love you want you healthy and happy. Your mother might be speaking from a place of fear for you, but the words are coming across as harsh. If you show her respect and love, I bet she'll come around.

The oddest reaction I've gotten is when I told someone who weighs about 80 - 100 pounds more than I do; she just stared at me and didn't say a thing. A dear friend of 28 years says she'll still be my friend, but won't do a thing to support the decision like take me to the surgeon...This friend and I have been to WW together, talked about food/weight since we met, and I have listened to her struggles with alcoholism. My husband had an absolute hissy-fit, but now says he was being selfish and apologized - he will be supportive now of whatever decision I make. My 6' tall beautiful daughter who wears a size 6-8, naturally, said that she is totally supportive and has worried about me for the past 2 years. She said, "Mom why bother with trying to lose weight the way you have for years. Why not take the help?! It's not like you have to suffer in order to deserve being good to yourself." ALL of these reactions AND I haven't even seen a doctor yet! I'm at the first step of calling to find out about it after doing a lot of online research. The person I expected would not understand is my very thin daughter. She, however, could not be more understanding and helpful. I guess we just never know! "I had WLS, I don't eat very much and my stomach is smaller, it's none of your business, or ..." is our choice just like the choice to get the sleeve. Geeze, I talk like I've already had the procedure done!

Your blog is delightful, interesting, and hopeful - thank you for sharing it! Your video is so beautiful...