Saoirse3

Hi, there! My name is Stacey and I'm 39 with 17 years experience! I have two daughters, 4 kitties and 4 parrots and yes, I live in Alaska (but no igloo and no dinners of whale blubber!). I also have two grandkids which are my sunshine! To put it bluntly, I look like a fire hydrant. I don't wear red because dogs pee on me! I am 5'2" and weigh 230 pounds. I have Fibromyalgia, back pain, OA in my knees and hips and generally feel like I am carrying a musk ox all the time. Everything hurts and sleep is only when I am totally exhausted. I also have NASH (at least that's what my doctor thinks I have) and my last blood panel showed I have alost no platelets. My doctor suggested the Lap Band because diets just don't work with me and I end up getting hypoglycemic and really sick. I am on Medicare but have supplemental insurance through BCBS of Illinois through my husband. They are supposed to share the expenses but usually wind up fighting with each other. My questions are how do I get started, what do I need to give Medicare and/or my insurance company, how much should I trust my doctor to do and how much should I do myself and how long does it usually take, beginning to end. Thanks for any/all answers and have a great day! Hugs, Stacey:confused: