Hey Anne! We're in the same boat i can tell. I'm only 20 years old yet I've been bigger(not so much fat)as long as i can remember. I chose the Lap-band over everything else due several factors, mainly it being removable and adjustable. I literally get scared when i think of all of the bad things that could happen to me like heart disease, bone and joint problems, etc. I try to think positive and even set some goals. I want to be able to fit into a wet suit to ride a jet ski, i want to ride roller coasters and be able to fit into clothing at regular department stores! The best thing you can do is show a need for a weight lose surgery. I've heard of alot of insurance companies deny people recently due to the popularity of weight lose surgery now. For someone like me that is 5'9", 362 pounds with a BMI of 53.5, should be easy. Just keep faith that you might get it.
*I haven't had the procedure yet, soon i hope.