Lawrence Baxter

Well, I see that I can't cut an paste, as I got the cart before the horse and have already revealed part of my journey in a response to someone's post...

Tried may diets. Had great success in the 80's/90's with the Diet Center and dropped quite a bit of weight. However, with years, a broken ankle and the changes in metabolism, the poundage moved onward and never dropped. The epiphany was in July during my annual physical when my PCP suggested bariatric bypass. He recommended the bypass over sleeve or lap band based on the reported success after 1 year.

I immediately started checking out my insurance and the cost and hit a major roadblock with the State of Texas negotiated insurance program with United Health Care...12 month long monitored nutrition/weight loss program with monthly reports, psych appointment, $5,000 up front and then 20% co-pay. So, to make it work, I checked to see if there was an option to withdraw an amount from my optional retirement program, similar to what they provide for education. Again, State of Texas contract with the approved ORP companies: only $$ if I die, quit or retire. I understand why, but still frustrated and stymied about doing something with my OWN money!!

Saw an ad for lap band procedure that provided a viable monthly payment plan...so, I began looking closer at the Lap Band process. Chose that route since its the least invasive and something that I thought was manageable with my lifestyle.

So, with an original weight of 354 in July and an October weigh in of 342.5, I am set for a lap band procedure on Monday, December 16. I work at a university so am hoping the semester break will provide the time to heal and further develop positive eating habits.

It really will be a new year for me.