I had been looking forward to December 16th as my surgery date, but because of insurance problems, I cannot go forward. I wrote a complete update in my profile if any of you care to look there. I'm a little disappointed by all of this, but I'm hoping by waiting I am making the right decision. I am also hoping and praying this new insurance company will approve me. I've spoken to a few people at the new ins. company and they've all been very positive about the situation. They've told me since I've gotten prior approval (from my current insurance company) and have all the necessary pre-op tests, letters, etc. that I stand a better chance of getting approved. They do not have any exclusion for a specific weight loss surgery which is encouraging I guess? At any rate, if any of you have any experience with FirstHealth PPO please let me know. My mother is an HCA hospital employee and I will be covered under her plan. Thanks and God Bless, Melody

MELODY, FROM YOUR PICTURE YOU LOOK PRETTY THIN, PLEASE TAKE THAT AS A COMPLIMENT! IRENE

OH YEAH, I KNOW WHAT YOU MEAN ABOUT THE PEACE OF MIND THING. I WAS HEADED TO MEXICO BUT GOT A DIFFERENT INSURANCE HERE WITH A KIND OF HIGH OUT OF POCKET BUT AT LEAST IT COVERS ME IN THE EVENT OF COMPLICATIONS! NOW I HAVE MUCH MORE PEACE OF MIND. I KNOW IT'S HARD TO WAIT. I HAD TO GIVE UP MY DEC. 30TH DATE FOR A FEB. 11TH DATE DUE TO THIS WHOLE INSURANCE MESS. AND I'M A LITTLE WORRIED....ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN BETWEEN NOW AND THEN! BUT ON THE OTHER HAND I'VE JUST DECIDED TO TRUST THE LORD TO WORK IT OUT. GOOD LUCK!!!! GOD BLESS!!!!!! IRENE

Well, we can be thankful for one thing... my surgeon says a little slower loss is good for the skin situation. Supposed to help out some with the sags. I was looking at your profile Loretta, you are looking great girl! You are a VERY pretty lady! Hang in there, we will make it all the way. Sallykate

Delays are not fun but they can serve a great role in our lives. My delays gave me the opportunity to learn and understand so much about the surgery, about myself, and be even more sure this was where I wanted to be ... not to mention getting to know DSers and being lucky enough to count them among my friends. Hang in there, M, we're pulling for you!

Melody, I'm sorry that things didn't work out as originally planned. I know it is very disappointing, especially this close to your surgery date. But... It sounds like the new insurance is going to be just what you need. Will you have the summer off to rest and recouperate? If so, that's longer than Christmas break which might be a good thing. I can't find a hug icon, so I'll just ((((Melody)))) Jeanie in MO