ren0318

OMGOSH, you and I have a lot in common! I too have a low BMI I'm right at 35! i have diabetes, major acid reflux, very high triglycerides. I have been thinking about this for a year now. I'm finally moving forward to get started. I am on an insulin pump. I hate it. I hate everything about diabetes. I am doing this for the positive effects it can have on all my health issues. I'm nervous as well, it's a BIG step, life as we know if really has to change. But on the other hand, if we continue on the path we are on now, we won't be around long enough to enjoy our lives. I have a friend who too had many of the health problems like us, she had the surgery and is now a picture of health, no pills no shots. And she still gets to eat things she likes, just in much smaller portions:) I've tried many times to "diet" but I either don't stick with it or I gain it right back. My hope is this will be a tool to help me stay on track. With the diabetes not going away, my dr said they found that if you've had diabetes for 10 years or less, you are more likely to respond more positively to the surgery, but even if you've had it for more than 10 years, you should still see major improvement. I think it has to do with how well your pancreas is still working. Mine works actually just fine, but due to the weight, I've got major insulin resistance. I would love to continue to chat with you if you decide to go with the surgery! I wish you the very best! Whatever you do decide, don't let diabetes win! Good Luck!

I take trazadone for sleeping, I hope I don't have that problem!

I'm curious why you went with the bypass over the sleeve. Just trying to make the decision as to which one I want. I do have type 2 diabetes, I read that the bypass is really good for that, however the pouch can stretches which concerns me. Thanks for the input.

I just asked that over the weekend:) to Bypass vs Sleeve

I have severe GERD! MAJOR! That adds another vote for bypass:)

Thanks everyone, very helpful!

The malabsorbation (is this not absorbing nutrients?) and dumping, what is that?

Anyone used Dr. Needleman at Ohio State? I would like to hear about your experience, insurance process, support etc? Thanks

Just about to start the process, in the Columbus area!

Hello! I've been lurking around the board for a bit reading all the great posts. Here's my story, struggled my entire life with weight and food! Lost with Weight Watchers once about 20 years ago, have tried numerous times since with no luck at sticking to it since I developed diabetes about 10 years agao, after I swore I would not let it get me(my father died from complications from diabetes). I also have high chlorestrol, high triglycrides (life threthening high), thyroid problems, major reflux, sleeping problems. I'm a hot mess! My BMI is right at 35, not as high as some, but I'm extremly effected by this extra weight. Last year the doctor put me on an insulin pump, gained 25 so far from that! I've studied up on the LapBand and the sleeve. However everyone I talk to says my best chances of diabetes remission is the bypass. It is sad to me that I need to take such drastic measures to control my weight, but it is what it is. I hear all sorts of requirements about insurance, however I'm determined to fight if they say no. The amount they pay each month for my insulin alone is astronomical. Some where close to $900, and that' s only for the insulin, not all my other meds. I went to a seminar back in January with someone from work, but didn't act on anything, but now I'm ready. If they turn me down I will appeal. My insurance is self funded by my company I've heard you have a better chance of getting a decline over turned if your in a self funded plan. Anyway, just wanted to say hello and make some friends to go along my journey with! PS: I have Cigna insurance (if anyone has anything to share about them) Renee

Good Luck! Where in the process are you?

Did anyone get the surgery after gaining weight after a hysterectomy? Just curious how that turned out?

what insurance company do you have?

That's great! Last week I went to the seminar for the surgery and the doctor said "sometimes peoples taste buds change". A lady who has had the bypass spoke to our group and she said she was a big sweet eater before surgery now, cant' stand it! I can only wish!

I'm right on the BMI line for the sugery, and I know I have to have a 2 year weight history submitted, does anyone know if it has to be a full 24 months, or say one weight that meets in 2012 and another in 2013. Or would I have to have the weight all of 2012, all of 2013 and then try for sugery in 2014? I hope my question makes sense.

I'm sitting right at 34.9, I've been reading and researching for months. I have diabetes, GERD, high cholrestrol, high blood pressure, I just told my husband last night I'm about to make the call and get started on the journey in January. For the life of me I don't understand insurance companies.They would rather pay out over $900 a month for just my insulin,plus all my other meds, rather than pay for the surgery for lower BMI. I personal think the BMI requirement should be lowered if you have co-morbilities.

I got a hold of my sugeron's office and the insurance person said she was pretty sure one from 2012 and one from 2013 would work.....I'm nervous to go through the 3 month diet and all the testing and then get denied....

WOW, You look great! So happy for you!

You look great! Congrats!

Can anyone who has cigna tell me if they required a weight history and if so for how long? My BMI is right on the line of 35 with diabetes. My weight has been creeping over the past year. Someone told me 2 years showing your are at the BMI that is high enough for the surgery, does anyone know if that's corrrect?

I am 17lbs short of the needed BMI for lapband, I am a type 2 diabetic, and I'm starting on the insulin pump this week. I already take metformin and lantus, as the dr has increased my lantus I've started gaining, now the pump comes. I was wondering if anyone who is on a pump or was on a pump can tell me if gaining weight on the pump is more rapid that shots? I've heard it can be. I'm honestly not hoping for weight gain, but I'm so OVER diabetes and all that comes with it, I really wish I could have the surgery, I see so many on the boards talking about getting off most or all their meds and I would love to have that happen! Thanks Ren

Does anyone happen to know how much "weight" history that cigna requires? And also when the insurance company does require a weight history, are they looking for you to be the same exact weight for the entire history time? I mean many of us flucuate from time to time. Thanks!

I got myself confused the Plication and the Sleeve are two different things correct?

I know this sounds really bad, but but did anyone gain to get approved?

ok thanks to you both, not sure how I confused the two of them! congrat Kia, how are you feeling?