Hey,

I am new to the forum and would like to introduce myself; I use the name "thelasttime" because 2005-2006 I lost 90 lbs on my own - in 2008 I've gained 67 lbs. back. I was thinking about being banded back then but thought - I can do this on my own. What a let down to be almost back where I started. Mentally, I can not do it on my own again. So this is "the last time" I will lose the same pounds ever again!

I am doing the post stuff; well more like got it all done just waiting for my insurance to approve. I hope to be banded by the middle of November. Thinking about option b - just in case I don't get the approval. Are there many self payees out there?

There are lots of self pays, but I'm not one of them. If you don't get approved, appeal, I did and it worked. Don't give up without a fight.

So you're in Richmond? Who's your doctor?

Dr. Gregory L. Schroder is my doctor at St. Mary's in Richmond. My insurance is BC/BS of Illinois.

BMI of 43.7 -

consult: 10/2

psychiatrist elva: 10/15

nutritionist: 10/21

I am so glad to meet someone close to Richmond. Thanks for the reply.. If this does not work. I will need to do a virtual band (It's free)

I'm with Dr. Brengman. Shroeder has done one of my fills and was in the room during my surgery. They are a great group! You'll do fine.

If you want to chat offline, just PM your email address and I'll email you seperate.

You are going to LOVE Shroeder and Brengman.

Oh yeah, I have federal BC/BS. My BMI was 35.1 when I first attempted to get approved. I was denied, then appealed. By the time I sent that in, I had gained up to 36.7. Appeal was approved. I'll tell you more about that if you need to appeal, but I'm sure you'll do fine.