Hi everyone!

My name is Julie, I am 24 years old and have been discussing some sort of weight-loss surgery with my family for the past six years. My parents were very discouraging when I was younger but when I brought it up almost a year ago, they were behind me 150%...now if only I didn't have to go through insurance...ugh.

Anyway, I am a senior in college and am transferring over to my schools insurance program. Aetna Student Health is what it is called. I have tried getting ahold of them to find out the criteria for the surgery but the girl I talked to seemed misinformed and did not know how to help me. I have done a lot of research but am still without the information I need. After reading many of posts I have learned a lot about what is needed. I also have been seeing my doctor for almost 9 months consecutively for weigh-ins to keep myself up on what I think is needed to be done.

I have history of my weight from the past 4-5 years and ever since I was born I have been overweight. I have a BMI of 48 and I am 5ft tall, I'll let you use your imagination.

Basically, I am looking for support. I do not really have anyone to talk to about this, at least to anyone who understands what I am going through. If my insurance goes the way I plan, I would like to have the surgery by my birthday, November 5th.

Words of encouragement are always welcome...

Cheers!

Julie

Hi Julie! I am so glad to hear that your family is supportive. That can make all of the difference. How long until your insurance kicks in? Once it kicks in I would call again. Do you have a coverage book? That might help you get some idea. Have you been in contact with a bariatric clinic? Sometimes they are very helpful. I am also waiting/hoping to be approved. I have a little more than two months left on a 3 month supervised diet. The fact that you have been going to your primary for wt checks might really help you speed things along. I hope you the very best. Good luck!-Kristal

Hi Julie -I saw you in the lap band chat, but you seemed like you were away. I completely feel ya on the insurance stuff, it's really painful when they are now informed. I went through that too, with three different insurance companies! I am still waiting, but if you ever wanna chat, I am hear from ya, and congrats!