Bill, How are you? I haven't heard from you in a WHILE, so I thought I'd come here to see if you've updated recently. Also, I'm writing to let you know what's going on with me. Our new insurance-blue cross of idaho-has an exclusion, just like Regence did. Frank and I are so tired of all the BS that we've decided to self-pay with Dr. Alejandro Aguirre, in Ensenada, Mexico. I've already had my consultation and my surgery is scheduled for January 13th. Almost a whole year of my life wasted on this quest. I am so ready for this to not be the all-consuming center of my existence! Dr. Aguirre is very nice. I REALLY like Dr. Oakley, and I felt so safe with him as my surgeon-but his office absolutely refuses to make any sort of arrangement with me. I am scared to go to Mexico, as I do not know how well-equipped they are to handle complications. I just know I can't live like this any more. It's 6900.00 for dr, hospital, testing, EVERYTHING! He only does open RNY, so the DS will not happen for me. At least I will lose the weight-that is the most important thing, right? Take care, and let me know how you are doing. God bless you and your family, suzi