Hello - my name is Kami and I've been reading here for about 3 months but haven't really posted yet, so I figured I'd come in here and introduce myself. I'm in the pre-op process of trying to get insurance approval right now. Even with the insurance, I'll be paying around $5000, so part of me just wants to head to Mexico and be done with it! But, I've already done my first weigh-in. Two more and I can get approved and get sleeved.

If I stay here and do it in the US, my doctor will be Dr. Shuster at Banner Gateway (anyone else have him as their surgeon?). If I get super impatient and head to Mexico, I'd probably go to TJ because Dr. Aceves is unfortunately out of my price range. In the meantime, I've done the exercise physiologist consult, met with the nutritionist (at initial appointment and 1-month weigh-in), I'm registered to take the class the hospital gives on the whole process, and I'd be looking at a surgery date in late June or early July. Seems so far away right now because I'm really impatient, now that I've decided on this. Especially since I live in Arizona and can just drive to Mexico. Oh, but I did let my passport expire, so I'd have to wait for a renewal or get a travel card.

I've ordered protein shake samples from Chike, Unjury, and Nectar (and so far they aren't bad). I've told my mom, my sister, and one of my brothers (that brother offered to help me finance it, awesome brother that he is!). I've told my dad that I'm thinking about it, but haven't yet told him its a definite. No hubby or significant other, but I've told most of my friends, with basically supportive reactions. I don't think I"m going to tell my co-workers, but I'm still working on that decision.

So far I really love this forum - I've learned so much already and I love the people here!

(and if anyone has advice about the waiting and doing it here vs. going to Mexico, I'd love to hear it. If it was going to be free or nearly-so after insurance, it would be an easy decision, but since the cost is the same, its so tricky!)

I live in Nevada and will be driving to TJ for my VSG on 4/13 with Dr. Kelly. I am going through Sandy with ALighterMe and it cost me $5300.00 - if you can get VSG in AZ with your insurance, you would have follow-up in case of problems down the road. That is one of my main concerns, but my insurance barely covers routine medical issues much less VSG! I ordered almost the same samples and will start trying them tomorrow as I am starting my pre-op diet. Good luck on your journey!

June/July are not that far away, and I agree that you should stick with your existing insurance/medical program if you can, as then you will have after-care and follow-up, etc. Stick with their program and the time will fly by. As people always say, this is a marathon, not a sprint -- no need to rush the up-front part of that journey. It's a great time to prepare and all that.

Anyhow, welcome and good luck!

My insurance excludes weight loss surgery. I am two days out, got sleeved on Friday with Dr. Kelly. I am currently a the Hotel Lucerna - very nice - I spent thur night, surg fri, recovering sat - mostly sleeping and walking the hall. That said, if my insurance had covered it, I would have done it in the states. I have had a great experience with Trish and Dr Kelly, and my PCP is very supportive. jean

I'm looking at August here - I don't know how much mine will be out of pocket (max of $4000 between deductible and out of pocket max) but I too would be headed to Mexico if my insurance didn't cover it. I am very impatient but since I do have the insurance for it I will stay here and wait it out! The biggest plus of that is having the followup care just in case. Good luck to you!