NEVER lose hope..my journey has just begun

[KristinaAnn 6]

I have been a member of this site for what seems like years.

When I first joined, I was exploring insurance options and if there would any "hoops" I could jump through to get approval. I researched self pay, I also researched going to Mexico. The funds just weren't there for me, I lost all hope.

This past year i've been "living through" my fiance's mother. She got the sleeve back in April of 2012 and has made tremendous progress. I often got jealous. But would try to hide it. My fiance is a gym rat as well, so I've felt a little out of place in some sorts.

Back in January I was looking for a new job, I wanted more money, and better hours..who doesn't, right? Well, I got the offer. As I was looking through their benefits I noticed they COVERED bariatric surgery. Not only was I getting better pay, and better hours, I also saw surgery in my distant future..

Yesterday I went to my first information class, and I signed up for my consulation. I called to verify my insurance as requsted by the surgeons office and was told 6 month monitored dieting wasn't approved like I thought!! I was so excited, but looking further into it my benefits handbook says different, but thats ok. I'm still excited. I have my 2nd weigh in with the doctor tomorrow, and am HOPING for a surgery date in September, early October depending on all of the insurance processing.

I'm so happy I never truly gave up, and that a healthy me is in the near future.

[sknyinside 99]

Congratulations! Like you, this is something I have wanted to do for a long time. I have really been on the fence though. I have tried everything else I know to do. I too, am just starting this journey.

My mind is made up now. Yesterday I called a surgeon and am signed up for a seminar. I had to see/have an appointment with the surgeon soon. They are verifying my insurance's requirements in the interim. I am not sure if this is the surgeon I am going to. But it is a good place to start.

Good luck! Healthier futures for us both, I hope!

[Kristina J. 581]

Oh Kristina! I am so happy for you! I have been researching and trying for 3 years to switch from my lap band to the sleeve! I have been banded for 10 years now and at times have felt so badly that I just was meant to live life as a fat woman. I have battled insurance and only came to brick wall contract exclusions. Starting a year ago, I decided on Mexico and even picked a surgeon, but we live on one income while I stay home with our young kids. So 2 months ago, decided it was time to get healthy, no matter what it took!! I saved, begged & borrowed and came with the money and scheduled for May 11th. After 10 years and a roller coaster of weight issues stemming back almost 20 years, it is finally time and I have 100% faith that this is my time and I couldn't be more excited. You are so very right!! NEVER give up hope!!!

[KristinaAnn 6]

Thank you both SO much! I went to the doctor today, and it turns out that I had been there both January and February discussing weight loss, so surprisngly enough I am on month 3 of the diet! I can't wait for my consultation and to get the few other requirements completed so I can schedule as soon as the next 3 months are up! I wish the best to you as well