Okay we don't have insurance that will cover this (we're on state insurance). After some discussion with my husband who knew I was only looking into the RNY because it is covered I'm seeking input from others. Where do you get the money to self-pay? I know I should probably wait until we're better off financially but I want to see if there are other options I'm not seeing.

We have a car that's nearly paid off. I have 401K investment. We do own a house but no equity to take right now (we've done that already to pay off debts.). I'm a stay home mom (seeking employment). My husband is working contract jobs since his layoff (the reason we're on state insurance). Really we're in a rough time financially and I feel extra selfish. But I'm watching my dad deteriorate from diabetes (even though he watches his diet like a hawk). And I feel very strongly about getting something done.

Any suggestions?

Misty,

You're in a tough place, no doubt about it. My advice, for whatever it's worth, would be to ideally land a job with an employer that has insurance that would cover the procedure.

You really don't want to dig yourself deeper into debt. Or, you can save up the amount it would cost to have the surgery done in Mexico, perhaps? If you don't have any debt and feel like you could manage monthly payments, there are companies that provide credit to patients. Call a few surgeons in your area that perform lap band and see who they recommend.

You could use this time to really learn everything you need to know about the band... so many people have had to "hurry up and wait" before getting the band, and everyone says it was worth the wait.

Meanwhile, do the best you can to stay healthy.

Good luck to you.

Elizabeth

8/28/03