Just logged on for the first time in a year or so.  A lot has happened, some good, some bad. 

First the bad - About three weeks post op I developed an infection at my incision site.  Surgery to remove port, another surgery to put the port back in, finally in October 2009, complete removal of my band.  Talk about devastating.  I was down 100lbs in just a little over a year!

After waiting six months to completely heal, I went back to my doctor to get my band put back.  This time my insurance company DENIED my request.  I had lost too much weight and was no longer considered a bariatric patient.  Appeal letters one and two came back denied as well. 

In August 2010 I filed my third and last appeal.  Highlighting their own policy.  Bariatric surgery is approved on ONE of three criteria: the third being when a mechanical malfunction causes the removal of the previous band.  I could read and understand their policy, why couldn't they?

Now the good - In February I get a call from my surgeons office. An independent reviewer of my case FINALLY saw things my way!!!  I"m good to go for surgery.

March 29, 2011 was a good day. My new band is installed and almost one week post op things are looking good so far.  On track to lose the 40lbs I gained while in the appeal process then another 30 after that.

I hope everyone is well, I think this is truly a new start for me.

d

Hi Everyone,
Tomorrow (3/16/09) I'll be on Coach Cher's live broadcast.  Tune in at 6pm to hear how things are going.

Had surgery yesterday to re-install the port!!!   A lot sore today but glad to know that things are going to get back on track. 

Went to the doctor yesterday.  The incision site finally closed up after all this time.  Hopefully I'll be able to get a surgery date soon.  My weight is holding for right now, but I want to get back on track.  Will keep everyone posted.  d