KatFight

@Apple203 You are doing amazing on your machine. That's great. Tornado sound - perfect way to describe it. [emoji946] I'm glad you're feeling more rested too. I am set up to use ramp tonight. The employee at American Home was very nice, thorough, and seemed to have heard similar comments from other patients. Thanks again for bringing up the idea of checking for ramp. It just may be what I need.

"assume"

My apologies for misunderstanding. You mentioned in your earlier post that at thefirst level of contact it was unlikely that the places you contacted would perform your surgery even if it was self-pay. I wrongly assumed you called some Bariatric programs and perhaps saw a doctor(s). You also mentioned that your sleep apnea is not obesity related - that's why I'm unsure if it would actually be a positive factor. You also mentioned that your BMI may be "artificially elevated" due to lifting weights for so long. Everything considered, I gave you my honest point of view. Being on the line between overweight/obesity is extremely frustrating and I know how that feels. I was on that train on my way to being severely morbidly obese. I got here in spite of all of my diets and going to the gym. So, obviously you want to get off the train before it reaches its final destination - severe obesity. You'll find a way. Wishing you well. (Oh, and thanks for clarifying. You are very detailed and write well - I assumed you had contacted a Bariatric center/doctor, Sorry. You know what they say about "

Hi. I did spend a longer period of time getting the pulmonary clearance. One issue is that the first pulmonologist's associates referred me somewhere for the test and when I didn't get a call from the sleep center in the timeframe they told me, I called the pulmonologist as instructed. I had to keep calling bc every timeframe they gave me would come and go. I attempted to call the sleep center many times but no one answered nor was there voicemail! I finally called my ins.only to find that the sleep center never called in for an approval as I was told they did. I was being told they were waiting for ins. Insurance confirmed that that company had absolutely not contacted them for anything. I contacted the BBB and someone from the sleep center called and apologized for their errors. I originally saw first pulmonologist on 9/7/17. I got a call from sleep center mid-October so you can add up the time I lost in getting my clearance. The sleep center said they did cost me time in process and would fast track an appt with another pulmonologist since I would not return to first office. (So much more happened there but it would be a novel.) The pulmonology clearance really frustrated me too. I was sooooo glad when I verified it had been rec'd by my surgeon. Stay strong - in the moment it seems like a big mountain to climb and it feels like your surgery will never happen. I felt that way and I'm post-op. In the end, this will be in your rear view and you'll be just where you want to be. [emoji259]

You did it - congratulations! Now that's what I call victory.

Hi. I'm still having so much trouble with the CPAP machine. I just kept trying thinking it would get better. I was furious with it last night. So much full-on pressure right away and my head gear twisting this way and that causing my nasal pillows to move and blast loud air. I got up to see if I have ramp option (I had it a decade ago and I didn't have this struggle). So, thank you for mentioning it bc there is RAMP but it is off and I can't turn it on. I'm going to call American Home Patient about it. Thank you again. This just may help me.

Oops. Sent it twice.

Hi Salazar. You clearly have made attempts at weight loss and aren't where you'd prefer to be. I can relate with you there. You may know that a nutritional plan is followed as part of the Bariatric (autocorrect keeps capitalizing) process. Many patients who could not lose weight with other attempts do lose on this plan. It's going to sound super-obvious...for me, the goal was to get 80-90 grams of protein, 64 oz. or more fluid, 1/2 c. whole grain, 1/2 c. veg/fruit (veg preferable to fruit), and no sugar. Even when I've followed high protein/low carb, my protein goals were not THAT high (and I didn't know that they "should" be). I did lose some weight - in 2 1/2 months I lost 16 pounds. Perhaps it's worth trying a Bariatric food plan? Like you, my husband is 6'1" but he weighs 256 lbs. He is currently trying to lose weight as well. His goal: 210 lbs. Everyone has different goals but his happens to be the lower end of your current weight. Doctors have said no to you for a reason. There's nothing you can do to "convince" most doctors to do surgery on you. You simply are not obese. I applaud your thought regarding not gaining so that a doctor may be compelled to perform your surgery. Many doctors, even most, are not likely to perform your surgery since you have no co-morbities and will still have a relatively low BMI. A few of the responses you rec'd gave suggestions of where to go to seek surgery. Wherever your next step leads, I wish you great success. [emoji458]

Hi Salazar. You clearly have made attempts at weight loss and aren't where you'd prefer to be. I can relate with you there. You may know that a nutritional plan is followed as part of the Bariatric (autocorrect keeps capitalizing) process. Many patients who could not lose weight with other attempts do lose on this plan. It's going to sound super-obvious...for me, the goal was to get 80-90 grams of protein, 64 oz. or more fluid, 1/2 c. whole grain, 1/2 c. veg/fruit (veg preferable to fruit), and no sugar. Even when I've followed high protein/low carb, my protein goals were not THAT high (and I didn't know that they "should" be). I did lose some weight - in 2 1/2 months I lost 16 pounds. Perhaps it's worth trying a Bariatric food plan? Like you, my husband is 6'1" but he weighs 256 lbs. He is currently trying to lose weight as well. His goal: 210 lbs. Everyone has different goals but his happens to be the lower end of your current weight. Doctors have said no to you for a reason. There's nothing you can do to "convince" most doctors to do surgery on you. You simply are not obese. I applaud your thought regarding not gaining so that a doctor may be compelled to perform your surgery. Many doctors, even most, are not likely to perform your surgery since you have no co-morbities and will still have a relatively low BMI. A few of the responses you rec'd gave suggestions of where to go to seek surgery. Wherever your next step leads, I wish you great success. [emoji458]

*at the overnight sleepy test?! I swear autocorrect messes with me. [emoji259]

Hi. WOOHOO! You're time has finally come. I packed 2 pair of comfy pants and tops (and was also wearing the same), plenty of underwear (wasn't sure how long I'd be there and I always pack double of what I need), deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, washcloths, and a bath sheet from home. I only used the clothes I was wearing and one pair of underwear plus toiletries bc I was in and out in about 22 hours. I packed my own medium firmness pillow which I intentionally left in the car bc I didn't want to mistakenly leave it there (like I did the at the overnight sleepy test) and I used it by placing it against my stomach on the ride home. I saw the tip posted on here by another member and it helps. Oh, I did pack socks too but didn't need them bc I left hospital socks on.

*you're

Good question for your surgeon. [emoji483] Mine said none which is ok w me but your being honest about what you enjoy. It really is a question for your doctor, imho. [emoji258]

I've been praying for you (if that's ok). Sure hope good new comes soon. Did you read the poem I wrote for you on your post where you mention what happened? It was a bit silly and I hope you were ok w it. [emoji250]

Congratulations! That's so exciting. [emoji258]

Oops. Didn't mean to end twice

Maybe I'm not understanding fully. If your official first visit was 12/19/18 then you need 90 (3 months) consecutive days. The days will not add up to 90 by 2/12/18 unfortunately. Even if you had 3 visits one in Dec, Jan, Feb, you do not have 90 days yet so that's an easy explanation as to why insurance cannot approve your surgery at this time. And that really stinks. It's understandable that your deeply disappointed bc they gave you date of 2/12 and now you hear otherwise. I have BC/BS and had 3 months visits as well. Because of a problem with one of the doctors' offices, my 3 months turned to 4. Then I was approved and had a date by the 5th month. I think it's probably rare that a surgery is done to the day of the 3-month mark bc you have to have 90 days first and all clearances then paperwork is submitted and there's a wait for approval. Hang in there. You'll get through this.

Maybe I'm not understanding fully. If your official first visit was 12/19/18 then you need 90 (3 months) consecutive days. The days will not add up to 90 by 2/12/18 unfortunately. Even if you had 3 visits one in Dec, Jan, Feb, you do not have 90 days yet so that's an easy explanation as to why insurance cannot approve your surgery at this time. And that really stinks. It's understandable that your deeply disappointed bc they gave you date of 2/12 and now you hear otherwise. I have BC/BS and had 3 months visits as well. Because of a problem with one of the doctors' offices, my 3 months turned to 4. Then I was approved and had a date by the 5th month. I think it's probably rare that a surgery is done to the day of the 3-month mark bc you have to have 90 days first and all clearances then paperwork is submitted and there's a wait for approval. Hang in there. You'll get through this.

You're welcome. Sainthood - you're too kind. You've written poems for other members. Here's one for you: Bari-sisters on the scene Have you met Little Green? She's cool, She's alright, But mess with kakatlady, She'll call you really shady Creekimp has your back When under attack From f'ed up professional error Or Bariatric member terror Then there's FluffyChix Let's get her in the mix She gives a humor fix Along with gentle (hugs) But she can be your thug KatFight has been there too When doctors' associates have no clue So, yes, puddycat do what you gotta do Even if you leave some kitty poo In the end (hee hee) you'll be great And eat from a little plate You'll be really lean Bari-sisters on the scene

Congratulations, your surgery day is almost here. You've had consultations from various doctors; possibly been put on a CPAP machine; had nutrition appointments and followed a nutrition plan; carried on despite frustrations and exhaustion; and followed a pre-op liquid diet. All of your hard work and dedication has now gotten you to the day you never thought would ever come. After my surgery, I thought that if I had known how well surgery would go and how much easier it was than what I thought, I wouldn't have been as anxious. One thing that was nice is that my anxiety began turning to excitement as the prep nurses were getting me ready for surgery. It all went really well. And it's a good possibility you may have a good experience too. I was sore and I used a rectangular-shaped ice pack the first couple of days. I had gas pain which is tough. In case you don't know, it can move to other parts of the body not just sit in the bowels. My shoulder and upper back were feeling awful. Walking did help with the gas. After the first 2 days, I just kept improving. Wishing you an "easier" surgery and recovery. Keep us posted.

In my mind it's natural to have questions, some of which may involve things down the road. All because things you ask about may be down the road doesn't mean you're rushing ahead. You're just curious. Seems that some people think they are so experienced that they can stop others from asking questions by saying "slow down" or "don't panic" or "pump the brakes" as if those asking questions are jumping ahead rather than living in the bariatric moment. We can live in the bariatric moment and still have random questions. Felt discouraged? I'm sorry to hear that. At least you learned who you may not want as a bariatric friend. Obviously, you wouldn't treat someone like that (nor would I). Felt some kind of way? Yeah, I can definitely understand why. You reached out to a new friend and were shut down when you asked a question following the friend inviting you to message with any questions. It's a mind****. There are some nice people on here. I hope you'll stay despite the cold reception.

That's amazing! Congratulations.

,Oh, congratulations

It's also nice to have a pillow in your car. I held mine against my stomach as my husband drive to keep it more stable. It was a good thing to have.

I felt physical hunger at certain times too. Normally in the morning. It's ok. If your goal in having surgery was to change your health for the better, you made the "right" decision. Hunger pains do pass. Continue to stick to your regimen and find other things to do to occupy yourself when hunger hits. You can do this..really, you can.