Hi all,

I've been posting on other threads since I joined this site, about how my insurance company's been uncooperative, to say the least.

When my doctor first submitted the request for a surgeon, the medical group said I would have to travel at least an hour's distance to their surgeon. I am blind, and, apart from movies, I don't know of any blind folk who drive on a regular basis. (Well, I drove a friend's car when I was in college, and I'm still here!) :-)

Anyway, I wrote back and explained that I wasn't willing to have my friends drive that far, and I didn't think it would be a good thing for a post operative patient to risk public transportation.

Then they said I didn't have a psychological evaluation. So I had one. Then they said I needed five years' proof of attempted weight loss. So I had my personal trainer, who is also a friend, write a letter.

Finally, they said I needed six months proof. And that was the fourth denial. I intended to go to obesity law.com and ask for help; in fact, I'd begun correspondence with them.

Last Tuesday, I went to see my doctor. She informed me that the medical group had been "bought out" or words to that effect, and I was now with another one. She resubmitted everything, and on Saturday, I was approved for a consultation with a surgeon. I'm so excited, and I just can't hide it! (Hmm! Sounds like a song!) It's for November 17, and though it's a month away, it gives me a chance to really start exercising again.

I haven't posted much here, but I did want to share with my sistas!

Wow Debbie! I am so happy for you. Your story inspires me and your perseverance motivates me. Thank you for sharing your happiness. Keep me posted on your progress.

Thank you, April.

There's more to the story. Today, just before I left work, the surgeon's office called to say they had a cancellation for tomorrow morning at 11. Did I want it? What do you think?! I'm either going to ask someone from work to drive me there, or I'll take a cab. Not cheap, but I don't care. I'm going!

Debbie