Butterfly66

Unfortunately, we gotta play the "insurance game." I had been going to the gym 6 days a week and eating like a bird. To get approved, I stopped everything. It was kind of nice for a while. Now I am ready to have all this extra weight gone. Once we all reach our goal weights, we should go on a victory cruise! No buffets though!

You are absolutely right about the support on this site. I was considering the sleeve until I found out that my insurance does not cover so I am going with the RNY. RNY has been performed longer than any other surgery with excellent success rates. Everyone I have read about only regret not doing it earlier! I have my sixth doctor visit this month then surgery next month. My advice, follow doctor orders before and after surgery 100% and you will do great. Looking forward to hearing about your progress. Don't feel bad about struggling with your decision for seven years. My best friend had hers done 10 years ago and has been encouraging me to do it since then! You can do it and we will be here to support you along the way. Christi

What insurance do you have? My insurance (Altius Federal) requires a BMI of 40 or above to qualify with no co-morbidities. My advice, as crazy as it sounds, gain weight.

I know my package has not been submitted because I have not had all my 6 month visits. My last visit is this month. I don't want to lose more than 15 pounds. Anything more than that puts me under 40 BMI, but AFTER approval I can lose more it seems.

I'm glad to hear you talked to your co-worker. It's always better to say how you feel rather than make assumptions. Now her eyes have been opened and you have maintained your valuable relationship. Way to go!

Preparing for life post-op. What are the best sources of protein once in solid food phase?

Just starting my journey and wondering how many of you got approved for surgery just based solely on BMI without any other comorbidity issues? Thanks!

I haven't had surgery yet, but on my liquid diet, I have mixed a container of light yogurt with protein powder, a cup of water and ice. It doesn't get too frothy.

This is the end. Even though we have been together for 46 years, through many a birthday, wedding, funeral and many other special occasions, it's time for me to move on. You taunted and mesmerized me over the television, radio, on nearly every street corner and magazine. Although you have been with me through the good, bad, happy and sad times, faithful and always there whether at midnight or 6 am, I have to cut the chains that bind and be free. I have loved you and hated you at the same time. The evidence of your control was always in my reflection, but no more. Good bye... <> food. My hope is that no one else falls prey to your lies and temptations. Farewell.

I think you should only say something if it is really burdening you. Otherwise, business as usual!

The more I read, the more I experience personally, the more I am certain that obesity is a disease much like diabetes, heart disease or cancer. If society and insurance companies viewed obesity as a disease, the approval process would be easier and the emphasis on prevention would be greater!

My last doctor visit is on 1 Nov. On that day, reflecting six months of doctor visits and a 15 pound weight loss, my package will be forwarded to insurance for approval. Now that the reality is sinking in, I'm scared. After struggling my whole life, fighting, losing 50 pounds, gaining it back, losing 100 pounds, gaining 50 back, I realize that this is the final end to a lifetime of low self esteem, finding clothes that fit, being belittled and put down for my looks. Is it really happening and can I really do it? Will I really see the person on the outside that has been fighting to get out for 46 years? Shopping at Victoria Secret? No more plus sized clothing? Is it real? Can it be a reality for me? I would appreciate any words of encouragement from those in the same situation. Thanks! Christi

You are so right. So much of it is a mental and emotional challenge. Thank you so much for the support. I will keep you posted on my approval, surgery date, etc. Thanks. Christi

Thanks so much. I know that everyone has said they have zero regrets. I am so excited and nervous. Come on November!

Thank you so much for the support, advice and encouragement.

Thank you Heather! Did you get approved yet?

What about caffeine in tea? Hot or cold?

Good job and good luck!

We are Triwest (Utah) and were told Tricare changed their requirements in January 2012. 6 months of doctor visits to discuss diet, nutrition and exercise.

I'm not sure if you can. When you go to a person's profile, you can add them as a friend. That's about all I know, sorry.

My daughter had the band put in a year ago and did not have very good success. She has PCOS and a knee injury that prevents her from heavy aerobic exercise. We initially looked at the sleeve for both of us - her as a revision and my initial, but my insurance would not cover. Having talked to the surgeon and done my own research, the RNY is the best, most effective surgery for rapid weight loss. I, like you, was concerned about dumping and malabsorption, but seeing how successful RNY is for most people AND it is the most popular surgery, I'm glad it worked out the way it did. I know that for heaving patients, they like to do the band first, then after a significant weight loss, then they go in, remove the band and perform the RNY. Good luck to you. My suggestion, don't wait!