all alone :( Arkansas

[mimiphyllis 0]

I'm in Ark too. Using Dr. baker. I've met with his nutritionist in his office, and have begun my pre-op requirements. My insurance requires the six month doctor advised weigh-ins, etc. but as I understand it, even if I should lose 20+ lbs., they go from your weight at your initial weigh-in. My BMI is 40 so I had that question too. There are also pre-op surgery support groups through Baptist Hospital in LR...you might check to see if your doctor's program is included in these. It's a lot of information to digest, but my insurance provider has been very helpful.

[latina71 3]

Beginning my very confusing journey alone. Family and friends bewildered at my choice and less than supportive. husband supportive but also' date=' doesn't truly understand why I cnt just work out. figuring out all the requirments and paperwork and which dr to use and all...hard to do alone. someone to chat with would be nice. I feel like a deer in head lights. ready to do this but also in need of some support...[/quote']

I know how you must feel. .my family wasn't as supportive.. it is easy to say ..drop the weight ..with gym..low carbs. . But it's Easier said than done for alot of people. . Its a challenge. . But only you can decide , its your body and your life..do it if you want definitely change your eating habits ...self control is scary..Sometimes you say. . I'm going for it and be strict.. and then someone else says don't do it. .listen to your heart. .best of luck! !

[jaxmommy2012 21]

thank you guys. The surgeon called me today and all i need is a 3 month diet and a psych evaluation so its looking good yayy

[mimiphyllis 0]

Great news for you!!! Good luck on this new journey!

[Living4Me 51]

That is great! Congrats on the news.

[Living4Me 51]

Congrats on the good news!

[1sunnuri 77]

I live in Arkansas but I'm having my surgery in Mexico. When I started considering the sleeve I called BCBS customer service and asked about the requirements for them to cover the surgery and they reviewed them with me. Federal BCBS raised their BMI requirements this year so I didn't qualify. I did some research and opted for Mexico. I'm scheduled for August 12th! Anyway' date=' I'm on and off here if you want to chat![/quote']

Hey im from arkansas and headed to mexico for august 12th with dr. Illan....

[jaxmommy2012 21]

Great news for you!!! Good luck on this new journey!

I was wondering, have u met dr. Paul? hes in the same practice as dr. Baker. And i was just wondering if he has good word going around? i likes him when i met him bc he seemed realistic and not mean!! so many surgeons i looked into were just plain rude. Ick. From what i understand dr. Paul is newer to the practice but has been in wls circles for a while.

[mimiphyllis 0]

I have not met Dr. Paul, nor have I even met Dr. Baker yet...just his nutritionist. Scheduled to attend the Seminar on July 30; maybe they will both be there then.

[PGee 318]

Oh sweetie, you're not alone...we are here!!! (and thank goodness VST was here for me, too!) I can't say I'm doing it all alone as my husband is my cheerleader and rock.....and one sister is aware of my plans and supportive as she's had an RNY years ago......otherwise, I am keeping it quiet---not discussing it with parents other siblings, nor co workers/friends.

Please be sure to get a copy of your insurance policy in writing or in a PDF.....you can call for it....do not leave that up to the doctors, that's your responsibility.

Sounds like our plans are similar, though. With regards to the BMI, some insurance companies state a 35 BMI with co morbidities OR a BMI of 40 or above w/o comorbidities....each doctor, nutritionist/dietitian, and insurance companies follow their own set of rules.

Good luck....we're here for ya!