ANON** S.
Welcome to Mo's World
Oct 23, 2006
I did wish everyone a Happy New year but it seems to have dissapeared. Here it is again. Happy New Year!!!!! Well...I wish I was as humorous as some of the profiles I have read. I really love those, but I will try to update you to where I am at this point.
My new insurance kicked on the January 8th, but I'm not on the books yet. Although my prerequisites for surgey have been completed, they need my insurance card. Do you see my predicament? My process has not made me jump through that many hoops as of yet, but it has called upon my patience barometer. I guess I have a good supply. I'm going through some emotional issues right now and it seems this upcoming surgery is one thing that is pulling me through. Life goes on. Hey all, I hope I have some life-changing news on my next post. Until then.....peace and don't worry...be happy.
Mo'
January 14, 2006
It's funny to me how now on my way to the lap band that I have noticed my stomach. I have taken it for granted forever unless It was shouting at me with pain or indigestion. Now I have noticed when it gets full. Even though I don't always stop eating when I should, paying attention to the forums has at least made me aware that my stomach has a limit. I can actually take a few bites and fill satisfied. I wish I could stop at that point, but old habits die hard. It's that don't waste food syndrome. I have some concern about this syndrome and how it will effect my band. Well...I certainly will see... won't I?
January 17, 2006
Hi All,
Wow!!! I think I am actually have lapband sympathy symptoms. Its like when a man has sympathy pains when his woman is pregnant or you hurt when someone close to you hurts. Reading on this board so much has educated me about the stomach and now I feel the stopping point of hunger. I can tell exactly when I am full or satisfied and should stop at that point. I don't though. But at least I know how it feels to be full without going to the stuffed phase. I get a ball feeling when I overeat too. I never noticed that before. I know I will need counseling for eating issues. My fear is that I won't stop when I have my tool in place. That is I know. The tool will give me a more forceful stop signal though and train me to develop a better eating style. Last night I even PB'd a little or something like that. I had laid down too soon after eating and something came up in my throat. I know I must be the only one who has had lapband sympathy symptoms. It is a trip. Just thought I would share. Awareness is a bear for sure. I can't wait to become a bandster and begin my journey for real. Y'all take care now.
Mo'
January 20, 2006
Hello Everyone,
I've just had a busy afternoon on the boards. It's great that so many of us Newbies have been getting banded recently. I'm really so happy for all of them. I call them Newbies because so many have been banded since I joined the board. Right now I just want to express gratitude to everyone on ObesityHelp. This is and has been a great experience. No...I'm not leaving. I'm still waiting on that darn insurance card. Darn! Darn! Darn! I'm calm now so I will continue. This board has helped me prepare somewhat mentally for the adventure, in which, I’m about to embark. I have to be prepared mentally for anything of importance. It helps me keep focus because I can easily dismiss something and keep going on my merry way. A good off-topic example would be my second husband. I stayed with his behind for 15 years going through stuff, forgiving because I don't carry grudges and going through the same things repeatedly. In order to divorce him, I had to divorce mentally first and then was able to carry through physically. I've accepted this as my make-up so I've now gone through most of the mental issues of the changes I will have to comply with after banding. This board has been oh so helpful for that transition. Of Course, nothing has been or will be like having the actual tool, but I do have a good idea from all of the open sharing from all the loyal members. On this post, I would just like to give a shout out to the lapband forum. Ya'll have been great!!!
Mo'
January 23, 2006
I checked this morning and I'm still not in the UHC system. Oh Well...I guess I need to be still not worry.
January 24, 2006
Hey Everyone,
After calling this guy Mike from Indy in records for the umpteenth time and responding to his emails of 'its not here yet' with a sickening sweet 'thanks so very much for your assistance', he faxed me the health benefit election form. I sat at my desk screaming silently bursting inside and hurriedly faxed the form to the UHC Eligibility Department. I am keeping myself from calling them for the third time today. (I’ll call them tomorrow) That's right!!!! I want it right now!!!! I need to be in the system so that I can fax my information to Barix so that they can send my completed packet to UHC. Am I jumping the gun? Do you think I'm pushing it? After all....is it fair of me to slap a new insurance that I have now been eligible for 17 days with a WLS request? Well I don't know if you’d call it fair...but I am ready to get this party started!!!!!!!!!
January 30, 2006
Hello All,
I am so trying to be cool right now. I submitted my copy of my temporary card to Barix on Friday for submission of my completed packet to UHC. One thing I must re-enforce to all people trying to get WLS...Stay on it!!!!! Track IT!!!!! Call them everyday if you have to. I don't pay attention to attitudes if someone happens to get one. I had called and emailed the DFAS Indy HR to get my form to fax to the insurance company (UHC) to get me in their system. Yes I could have waited, but that would have been an unnecessary delay in my eyes. You know how one gets anxious while trying to get something that they want, well Momma was calling folks everyday. Persistence is not my strong point, so mama must really want this. Well...I called Barix today and they FEDEX'd my paperwork to UHC today. They should get it tomorrow. I'll give them one day. I'll call them (UHC Customer Service) on Wednesday. They may give me the runaround but at least I'll be on it like Krytonite. I'll be on it!!! Here's hoping I have some positive news on my next post.
Mo'
February 2, 2006
Hello to all who have traveled into my little part of the Serengeti. The Serengeti desert is that picture you see when first entering my page. I’m still waiting, but in a proactive way. I called the insurance area at Barix today and got the name of who is working on my case. I can work with a name. Her name is Tabitha and I sure do hope that she can work magic. Remember that Tabitha was Elizabeth Montgomery’s daughter in Bewitched. For now, this will be enough of my television addiction history. My packet was sent to UHC on Monday. My insurance was verified today at 10:00 AM by Tabitha. She will be sending her part to UHC today or tomorrow. This stuff is getting trick but I will persist in my proactive waiting.
February 6, 2006
Well....that's it, as far as a receiving speedy approval. I called them this Monday morning and they show me as receiving Medicare. Barix does not take Medicare. The thing is that I don't have Medicare...I have United Health Care. I cannot emphasize enough that you have to check on these people who have your life in their hands. I'm pretty upset right now. Looks like the process will need to begin all over again. I'm on the phone with UHC right now!!!!!!!!
February 9, 2006
Good Afternoon,
Hmmmmm...did some calling and "I can't get noooooo satisfaction....I can't get nooooo satisfaction. I tried and I tried and I tried... and I try try try...but I can't get no...no no no" Just borrowed that from Mick Jagger's superbowl half-time show. Anyway, mama is still being forcefully patient. Hope to be posting some good stuff soon. Peace.
Mona
February 15, 2006
This is the day after Valentine's and mine was great!!!! Now back to the business at hand. Barix has a very incompetent insurance person. She assured me three weeks ago that my paperwork was submitted to UHC. I think she got a fax receipt. Come to find out today with 40 minutes of run-arounds with UHC that their pre-determination had no record of me afterall. I have there direct line now and a name. I called Barix back and someone else is faxing in my information this afternoon. if they do or not, I'll be calling pre-determination tomorrow to see if its in the system. I can't stand half-@ss #$%@@&. Barix insurance department has done me wrong.
February 16, 2006
I owe Barix an apology. After all, I must remember that I am money to them and that they want to get paid. I apologize to the Barix insurance office for my premature attack on your inefficiency. Today on my daily call duty, I found out that UHC is creating some grand confusion. Can you believe that they have been giving me false fax numbers?????? How Ruuude!!!! Barix called the numbers and used the numbers I had given them from UHC and gave me that information about the royal run-around I had been getting. But then again, if I had not been calling UHC, Barix would not have known that I was not in the system. Good old Barix then gave me a service reference number that tracks my case in the UHC system. I'll call them next week. Barix then proceeded to give me a fake date for surgery. She said it was a proceedural date that they had to give them (UHC) but the real date would be between scheduling, me and the surgeon after they got approval. My fat butt might as well go on a diet now 'cause the bogus date they gave me is April 15th. Do you know how much weight I can gain between now and until then? They have started my process all over again for the second time. Oh well. It looks like I need to cool my heels until Monday. This is Thursday but do you know why Monday? The reason is because I'm going to continue to be on it...straight up on it.
Mona
February 23, 2006
I am just plain old anxious now. This was the third submission attempt for insurance approval because of errors from the clinic and UHC. First UHC had me as having Medicare as my primary insurance and the Barix Clinic in Ohio does not except that. It was totally false. I've never had Medicare. By calling both entities constantly, I found this out and got it straightened out. That would have caused further straight out denial, from the get-go, if I had not been proactive in my pursuit. Then the Barix clinic re-faxed my paperwork to an inoperative number. I still was not in UHC system. I found that out by calling them both and straightened that out. The third time was a charm though and they faxed me again and I am now in the pre-determination phase. ...or so I thought
Today I called and was told that I was not supposed to be in Pre-determination and should have been in the area for Authorization of Inpatient Notification. Alrighty then!!!! Yet another delay...but now I won't have to wait the 30 days for approval hopefully. I'm a bit frustrated because the initial failed faxing was January 17th. UHC finally had my paperwork as of the 15th of February. So barring the miss-communications, its been 8 days since I've even been in the system. I know approval depends on your policy. I'm just anxious. Shux...it can takes only 3 days for approval in the proper department. That's why I swittched to UHC in the first place. But they have had me going like a rollercoaster baby!!! They know immediately rather you are eligible or not. That is their job!!!! I am so glad that I call them often. If I had not been proactive, I would still be at square one. I have a projected date of April 14th for the WLS approval purposes, but Barix says it can be sooner depending on the surgeon and scheduling. The saga continues
Mona
March 1, 2006
That is such a trip!!!! They (UHC) finally looked at my package yesterday and I am approved today. My daughter had assured me that they know right away. It just took them the longest to get to me is all. Whoever had it on their desk, must have had a huge workload. They received my paperwork in the correct office on the 17th and just looked at it yesterday the 28th. This was the third submission from Barix. The first had been the 17th of January...the second was the end of January and UHC claimed to never have received those. If I had not called those jokers everyday, I would probably still be in limbo Oh Well. Sooooooo...that means they looked at it 6 working days after they received me in the system. Seems like forever though. I am really so happy that I am approved and I wanted my OH people to be the first to know. Yipeeeeeee! Now I have to wait for the letter and I will fax it to Barix immediately after I get it. I think their Care Coordination is in Arizona. That's out west so it will take more then a few days to arrive in Ohio. Right now Barix is wide open for appointments...so my next post might have my surgery date attached. My band buddy got her letter and they gave her a surgery date for 7 days later. She had her pre-opt today and surgery will be Monday. It's a quick turnaround right now for some reason. Anyhoo....luv yall.
Mona
March 8, 2006
Hello Everyone,
Not much to reort. Just waiting for Barix to give me my surgery date. I have approval and the packet from insurance was faxed to the Clinic. I know the hard part is over and I am so ready to get this party started.
Mona
March 14, 2006
I decided to call scheduling at Barix today and when they got back with me they said that they were just going to call me. I must say when they told me the date that was available for me I got a tear in my eye. My date is April 20th. That was a tear of dissapointment because I had been hoping for March. They have been jacking me around since January. I know I should be happy that I finally got a date and I am because I have been anticipating this WLS since November. I'll get over my little sad whinny period as soon as I get my perspective together. I had planned on doing some liver and colon health anyway, so now I guess I have plenty of time for that since my date is over 5 weeks away. That's a good thing. Shux...I really need to stop tripping. Maybe I should have waited 'til tomorrow to post my good news so I'd be over my silly pout. I am really happy everyone. I'll be this evening for sure. I just gotta stop being a big ol' baby right now. Thanks for listening and being there for me. BAF is the best!!!
Mona
March 17, 2006
Hello Everyone,other then having man problems, all is well. What is up with some of these men about someone else's change effecting their lives. It is amazing how fragile some of these manly men are!!!! I was doing this for myself not to catch another man. Shux!!!I thought I already had an intelligent dynamic man in my corner. Oh well...'thought' was the operative word in that statement. Reading the boards, I see that I am not the only one who has to deal with the delicate male ego. Don't get me wrong cause I really care about this very confident southern man, but what can I do? Its been 3 years of a good relationship and now he is backing away. Not getting the surgery is completely out, because I am 49 years old and as everyone knows, middle age is the time where when being overweight is not really a desirable health option. I know an overweight person can relate to health issues.
My date is the 20th and I am happy about that. They just called to offer me an earlier date, but because the 11th is on a Tuesday, it would force me to take off more days. I opted to keep my original date of the 20th so that I can have 11 days of with 2 weekends included. I'll only have to take off a week now. Its all good and I can continue with the plans I have made about doing my colon therapy and liver cleanse program before surgery. Thank you for reading my journal. Y'all come back now!!!
Mona
April 3, 2006
Hey There,
This thing seems to be rolling along now. Tomorrow I go for my pre=opt and start my 2 weeks of liquids. I'm actually looking forward to the liquid phase because I will lose some weight. It's probably going to be hard, but I don't care. I'm sure I will not be the best person to be around. I am worried about my breath though. When you fast like that, halitosis is awful. This is the beginning of a monumental step in my life. I realize that and I'm a little titilated at the prospect of such possitive change in my life. I need this. I am determined that the second half of my life will be quality. This is no joke. My lifestyle will change and I know it is for the better. A healthier me will emerge. That's the most important thing. Being fat can be frustrating sometimes...well most of the time. I have a feeling that I will be doing a lot of journaling in the near future. Ya'll take care now...Ya hear?
Mona
April 5, 2006
How are you today? I went to my pre admission testing and passed with flying colors almost. I saw the nurse, the anesthesiologist, the nutritionist and the combination internist and psychologist. The psychologist was tricky. She never said she was a psychologist. She just pretended she was examining me and started asking all kinds of questions. I played along, but I was honest with her. Some questions were medical and some were clearly personal. It really was painless. My blood work came back that my potassium was a little low and I have to take potassium tablets for 10 days. My BP is controlled but she changed my medication to take out the water pill portion of it. She also told me to increase my salt intake. I thought that was strange and now I am doing the bowel prep by doing full liquids for 2 weeks. I should not have told her that I had to see my cardiologist again because she asked for another release from him before i could have my procedure. All in all, I am doing the full liquids and she told me to eat every two or three hours. This is definitely an experience.
Mona
April, 13, 2006
Hello All,
Just got a call from the Barix Clinic. They asked for another clearance from my cardiologist. My fault because my cadiologist has already cleared me but I mentioned that I was going for a followup, so of course they wanted another clearance. I see the cardiologist tomorrow and my BP is 120/70, so there should be no problem. Anyhoo, I will offically be laying in the bed or on the table about to be banded next Thursday @ 8:00 AM. Ask me how I feel? I don't know. I just feel kind of Blah... because when they do the darn thing, its just me. There have been so many different types of recovery mentioned on the board, I don't know if I'll be a fast healer or a slow one. I'm optimistic about the healing process, but I know that I'll have to get my perspective together before the big morning. I know attitude is everything. Reading the board has been helpful, but when it comes right down to it, we all are individual and handle things in different ways. The only thing to it is to do it...but all in all, I just have to wait and see how I handle coming down to that moment of truth. Can you tell I'm tripping? I have a week to work on my attitude. Ya'll take care.
Mona
April 17, 2006
Hey everybody,
Today I have been so good with my liquids. I can honestly say that I have not cheated. I'm headed to GNC today to get some ISOPURE. That has come highly recommended by my Angel. She's cool people. Its countdown time for me. I've lost 6 pounds on the pre-opt diet and that is all good. I have cheated though. I had a salad yesterday and to tell you the truth, it helped me go to the bathroom. Today I will go to Aldi's and pick up some SF frozen popsicles, pick up my heatpad from my son-in-law and I guess look for some Gas-X since that is so highly recommended. I'm considering a chewable multi-vitamin, but vitamins have always incresed my appetite. I'm hoping that these protein drinks have some vitamins. Anyhoo, I'm getting kind of anxious and stuff. Oh yeah...my cardiologist faxed my second clearance Barix today and everything is full steam ahead for Thursday. Coming this far has been an adventure in itself.
Mona
April 19, 2006
I am almost giddy. I got up this morning blasting my stereo and feeling soooooooooooo good. I'm excited.
April 21, 2006
It was totally uneventful and I am doing very well so far. Wow!!! I have 5 different prescriptions and the surgeon discovered I had a hernia the size of a small egg above my navel. I would never had known untill I felt some pain without having my band put in. I'll get that taken care of at another time as he said it could cause infection if he did them both at the same time. I'll have to lose some weight first. I have 5 incisions and the port is located on the right of my navel about 4 inches up. I like that location. I am totally surprised that I have minimal pain and can drink seemingly normally. Of course this is only the 2nd day, but I am feeling totally straight. No gas pains yet but I am taking the Gas-X. My stomach is poking out like I'm 9 months pregnant though but I don't care. I am finally on the band wagon and very happy about it. I think I am in such a good mood because of all the support and infomation I have gotten off the board. ...and finally for now....guess what? I'm on full liquids for 3 weeks and that is great!!! That is sooooooo cool. I can handle that. They skipped the clear liquids all together. The forth week will be purees and the 5th week soft foods. The sixth week I'll be eating normally. Well....I do want to say one more thing. I really appreciate my Angel and my Angel's Angel. I appreciate that one on one with Solo Dancer and I know your recovery will be extra smooth. Thanks for the Get Well card. I love it!!! You take care now and we'll chat soon. Thanks everyone for keeping the Lap Band Board live and jumping.
Mona
April 22, 2006
I don't have much to complain about. I feel like going to the thrift store to get these King Size pillow cases are still there. I feel greta. I've been putting a heating pad on my belly and the bloting is going down. I don't have pain in my shoulder or belly...just gas. The reason I don't have pain in my stomach is that I did not lay flat directly after surgery. The bed was always in a heads up position. That was a tip a friend gave me to not let the gas travel around. Well...I'm going to try to fight the temptation to go out for another hour or so. Believe me. I feel fine and don't want to blow it by doing to much. I sit in my recliner as I type and I'm getting ready to walk down to the kitchen. I will post on the good and the bad. So far so good.
May, 2, 2006
I am officially 13 days post op and all is well. I'm getting a little bored with the full stage and I'm ret to move on to the mushie phase. I have cheated with no obvious repercussions. I ate a little vegetarian chili and I chewed a beef stic to none existence today. The chil was yesterday and it was about 2 oz. I'm fitting into some of my 20s. I was busting out of them and the 17 pound weight loss has made me feel kind of good. I'm off to a play this evening and off tomorrow. Life is good and I happily look forward to the future.
Future Update
May 9, 2006
Hey everybody,
I am 20 days post-op and I am feeling real good. I have lost 21 pounds and have had no knee pain. I've started back walking and I do 3 miles like its nothing. Although I have had no fill, I do have some restriction, as far as, a little knot when it is time to stop eating. Now instead of feeling that fullnest in my lowere stomach that I love to achieve, I feel it right around the band. That's ok with me. Luv ya.
Mona
May, 25, 2006
Hello All,
I'm back from my first fill and the doctor put me on the rest of today and tomorrow on full and clear liquids. It's ok though because I'll just be eating yogurt, SF popsicles, cream soups, protein shakes, jello ect. You know the pre-opt diet. He gave me his customary hug and the visit began. Anyway, it took maybe 5 minutes. After I laid down on the table with the gown on top of my bra and clothing, he felt for the port and said it would be no problem, the nurse put on the iodine and I felt the needle for a second and he injected the saline. He said I should feel some restriction with it, but said it would probably be a couple of more before I hit my sweet spot. He's conservative with his fills. I felt some restriction already so, I'm hoping I lose some weight before my next appointment in 6 weeks. I'm surprised that I did not gain back any of the 20 pounds I've lost. That was a big surprise because I just got back from vacation and did eat me some Mexican food. This was quite an experience and although I was prepared for it from reading the board, i did experience some anxiety as evidenced by my elevated bllod pressure. I'll check it again tomorrow and it should be my normal 120/75.
I know I have not been posting for a minute, but I had to share this with you and encourage others not to fear the fill experience. it was not all that bad and I feel great with the weight I have lost so far. Ya'll take care.
Mona
May 30, 2006
I hope you all had a lovely memorial day. Mine was nice and quiet. I cooked meat. I had found some turkey mignon wrapped in bacon, some flavorful chicken sausages and some Italian sausage mix that I mixed with turkey and ground beef. I marinated that stuff in some sesame and ginger vinigrette dressing and I have to say it was the bomb and I have protein for the week. i have some restriction and I have to be very careful about the size of my first bite. Haaaaaate that stuck feeling.
June 1, 2006
I'm completely recovered and and my surgeon me released for full exercise. I'm going to tackle a Pilates class at the recreational center later on this month and I'm riding my bike too. Whooooo! Gotta build up some bike stamina. I had gained a few pounds when I was in California, but now that I'm back to my rountine, I've dropped those Tamales and El Pollo Loco pounds. Thanks to all who take time to follow my journey.
My new insurance kicked on the January 8th, but I'm not on the books yet. Although my prerequisites for surgey have been completed, they need my insurance card. Do you see my predicament? My process has not made me jump through that many hoops as of yet, but it has called upon my patience barometer. I guess I have a good supply. I'm going through some emotional issues right now and it seems this upcoming surgery is one thing that is pulling me through. Life goes on. Hey all, I hope I have some life-changing news on my next post. Until then.....peace and don't worry...be happy.
Mo'
January 14, 2006
It's funny to me how now on my way to the lap band that I have noticed my stomach. I have taken it for granted forever unless It was shouting at me with pain or indigestion. Now I have noticed when it gets full. Even though I don't always stop eating when I should, paying attention to the forums has at least made me aware that my stomach has a limit. I can actually take a few bites and fill satisfied. I wish I could stop at that point, but old habits die hard. It's that don't waste food syndrome. I have some concern about this syndrome and how it will effect my band. Well...I certainly will see... won't I?
January 17, 2006
Hi All,
Wow!!! I think I am actually have lapband sympathy symptoms. Its like when a man has sympathy pains when his woman is pregnant or you hurt when someone close to you hurts. Reading on this board so much has educated me about the stomach and now I feel the stopping point of hunger. I can tell exactly when I am full or satisfied and should stop at that point. I don't though. But at least I know how it feels to be full without going to the stuffed phase. I get a ball feeling when I overeat too. I never noticed that before. I know I will need counseling for eating issues. My fear is that I won't stop when I have my tool in place. That is I know. The tool will give me a more forceful stop signal though and train me to develop a better eating style. Last night I even PB'd a little or something like that. I had laid down too soon after eating and something came up in my throat. I know I must be the only one who has had lapband sympathy symptoms. It is a trip. Just thought I would share. Awareness is a bear for sure. I can't wait to become a bandster and begin my journey for real. Y'all take care now.
Mo'
January 20, 2006
Hello Everyone,
I've just had a busy afternoon on the boards. It's great that so many of us Newbies have been getting banded recently. I'm really so happy for all of them. I call them Newbies because so many have been banded since I joined the board. Right now I just want to express gratitude to everyone on ObesityHelp. This is and has been a great experience. No...I'm not leaving. I'm still waiting on that darn insurance card. Darn! Darn! Darn! I'm calm now so I will continue. This board has helped me prepare somewhat mentally for the adventure, in which, I’m about to embark. I have to be prepared mentally for anything of importance. It helps me keep focus because I can easily dismiss something and keep going on my merry way. A good off-topic example would be my second husband. I stayed with his behind for 15 years going through stuff, forgiving because I don't carry grudges and going through the same things repeatedly. In order to divorce him, I had to divorce mentally first and then was able to carry through physically. I've accepted this as my make-up so I've now gone through most of the mental issues of the changes I will have to comply with after banding. This board has been oh so helpful for that transition. Of Course, nothing has been or will be like having the actual tool, but I do have a good idea from all of the open sharing from all the loyal members. On this post, I would just like to give a shout out to the lapband forum. Ya'll have been great!!!
Mo'
January 23, 2006
I checked this morning and I'm still not in the UHC system. Oh Well...I guess I need to be still not worry.
January 24, 2006
Hey Everyone,
After calling this guy Mike from Indy in records for the umpteenth time and responding to his emails of 'its not here yet' with a sickening sweet 'thanks so very much for your assistance', he faxed me the health benefit election form. I sat at my desk screaming silently bursting inside and hurriedly faxed the form to the UHC Eligibility Department. I am keeping myself from calling them for the third time today. (I’ll call them tomorrow) That's right!!!! I want it right now!!!! I need to be in the system so that I can fax my information to Barix so that they can send my completed packet to UHC. Am I jumping the gun? Do you think I'm pushing it? After all....is it fair of me to slap a new insurance that I have now been eligible for 17 days with a WLS request? Well I don't know if you’d call it fair...but I am ready to get this party started!!!!!!!!!
January 30, 2006
Hello All,
I am so trying to be cool right now. I submitted my copy of my temporary card to Barix on Friday for submission of my completed packet to UHC. One thing I must re-enforce to all people trying to get WLS...Stay on it!!!!! Track IT!!!!! Call them everyday if you have to. I don't pay attention to attitudes if someone happens to get one. I had called and emailed the DFAS Indy HR to get my form to fax to the insurance company (UHC) to get me in their system. Yes I could have waited, but that would have been an unnecessary delay in my eyes. You know how one gets anxious while trying to get something that they want, well Momma was calling folks everyday. Persistence is not my strong point, so mama must really want this. Well...I called Barix today and they FEDEX'd my paperwork to UHC today. They should get it tomorrow. I'll give them one day. I'll call them (UHC Customer Service) on Wednesday. They may give me the runaround but at least I'll be on it like Krytonite. I'll be on it!!! Here's hoping I have some positive news on my next post.
Mo'
February 2, 2006
Hello to all who have traveled into my little part of the Serengeti. The Serengeti desert is that picture you see when first entering my page. I’m still waiting, but in a proactive way. I called the insurance area at Barix today and got the name of who is working on my case. I can work with a name. Her name is Tabitha and I sure do hope that she can work magic. Remember that Tabitha was Elizabeth Montgomery’s daughter in Bewitched. For now, this will be enough of my television addiction history. My packet was sent to UHC on Monday. My insurance was verified today at 10:00 AM by Tabitha. She will be sending her part to UHC today or tomorrow. This stuff is getting trick but I will persist in my proactive waiting.
February 6, 2006
Well....that's it, as far as a receiving speedy approval. I called them this Monday morning and they show me as receiving Medicare. Barix does not take Medicare. The thing is that I don't have Medicare...I have United Health Care. I cannot emphasize enough that you have to check on these people who have your life in their hands. I'm pretty upset right now. Looks like the process will need to begin all over again. I'm on the phone with UHC right now!!!!!!!!
February 9, 2006
Good Afternoon,
Hmmmmm...did some calling and "I can't get noooooo satisfaction....I can't get nooooo satisfaction. I tried and I tried and I tried... and I try try try...but I can't get no...no no no" Just borrowed that from Mick Jagger's superbowl half-time show. Anyway, mama is still being forcefully patient. Hope to be posting some good stuff soon. Peace.
Mona
February 15, 2006
This is the day after Valentine's and mine was great!!!! Now back to the business at hand. Barix has a very incompetent insurance person. She assured me three weeks ago that my paperwork was submitted to UHC. I think she got a fax receipt. Come to find out today with 40 minutes of run-arounds with UHC that their pre-determination had no record of me afterall. I have there direct line now and a name. I called Barix back and someone else is faxing in my information this afternoon. if they do or not, I'll be calling pre-determination tomorrow to see if its in the system. I can't stand half-@ss #$%@@&. Barix insurance department has done me wrong.
February 16, 2006
I owe Barix an apology. After all, I must remember that I am money to them and that they want to get paid. I apologize to the Barix insurance office for my premature attack on your inefficiency. Today on my daily call duty, I found out that UHC is creating some grand confusion. Can you believe that they have been giving me false fax numbers?????? How Ruuude!!!! Barix called the numbers and used the numbers I had given them from UHC and gave me that information about the royal run-around I had been getting. But then again, if I had not been calling UHC, Barix would not have known that I was not in the system. Good old Barix then gave me a service reference number that tracks my case in the UHC system. I'll call them next week. Barix then proceeded to give me a fake date for surgery. She said it was a proceedural date that they had to give them (UHC) but the real date would be between scheduling, me and the surgeon after they got approval. My fat butt might as well go on a diet now 'cause the bogus date they gave me is April 15th. Do you know how much weight I can gain between now and until then? They have started my process all over again for the second time. Oh well. It looks like I need to cool my heels until Monday. This is Thursday but do you know why Monday? The reason is because I'm going to continue to be on it...straight up on it.
Mona
February 23, 2006
I am just plain old anxious now. This was the third submission attempt for insurance approval because of errors from the clinic and UHC. First UHC had me as having Medicare as my primary insurance and the Barix Clinic in Ohio does not except that. It was totally false. I've never had Medicare. By calling both entities constantly, I found this out and got it straightened out. That would have caused further straight out denial, from the get-go, if I had not been proactive in my pursuit. Then the Barix clinic re-faxed my paperwork to an inoperative number. I still was not in UHC system. I found that out by calling them both and straightened that out. The third time was a charm though and they faxed me again and I am now in the pre-determination phase. ...or so I thought
Today I called and was told that I was not supposed to be in Pre-determination and should have been in the area for Authorization of Inpatient Notification. Alrighty then!!!! Yet another delay...but now I won't have to wait the 30 days for approval hopefully. I'm a bit frustrated because the initial failed faxing was January 17th. UHC finally had my paperwork as of the 15th of February. So barring the miss-communications, its been 8 days since I've even been in the system. I know approval depends on your policy. I'm just anxious. Shux...it can takes only 3 days for approval in the proper department. That's why I swittched to UHC in the first place. But they have had me going like a rollercoaster baby!!! They know immediately rather you are eligible or not. That is their job!!!! I am so glad that I call them often. If I had not been proactive, I would still be at square one. I have a projected date of April 14th for the WLS approval purposes, but Barix says it can be sooner depending on the surgeon and scheduling. The saga continues
Mona
March 1, 2006
That is such a trip!!!! They (UHC) finally looked at my package yesterday and I am approved today. My daughter had assured me that they know right away. It just took them the longest to get to me is all. Whoever had it on their desk, must have had a huge workload. They received my paperwork in the correct office on the 17th and just looked at it yesterday the 28th. This was the third submission from Barix. The first had been the 17th of January...the second was the end of January and UHC claimed to never have received those. If I had not called those jokers everyday, I would probably still be in limbo Oh Well. Sooooooo...that means they looked at it 6 working days after they received me in the system. Seems like forever though. I am really so happy that I am approved and I wanted my OH people to be the first to know. Yipeeeeeee! Now I have to wait for the letter and I will fax it to Barix immediately after I get it. I think their Care Coordination is in Arizona. That's out west so it will take more then a few days to arrive in Ohio. Right now Barix is wide open for appointments...so my next post might have my surgery date attached. My band buddy got her letter and they gave her a surgery date for 7 days later. She had her pre-opt today and surgery will be Monday. It's a quick turnaround right now for some reason. Anyhoo....luv yall.
Mona
March 8, 2006
Hello Everyone,
Not much to reort. Just waiting for Barix to give me my surgery date. I have approval and the packet from insurance was faxed to the Clinic. I know the hard part is over and I am so ready to get this party started.
Mona
March 14, 2006
I decided to call scheduling at Barix today and when they got back with me they said that they were just going to call me. I must say when they told me the date that was available for me I got a tear in my eye. My date is April 20th. That was a tear of dissapointment because I had been hoping for March. They have been jacking me around since January. I know I should be happy that I finally got a date and I am because I have been anticipating this WLS since November. I'll get over my little sad whinny period as soon as I get my perspective together. I had planned on doing some liver and colon health anyway, so now I guess I have plenty of time for that since my date is over 5 weeks away. That's a good thing. Shux...I really need to stop tripping. Maybe I should have waited 'til tomorrow to post my good news so I'd be over my silly pout. I am really happy everyone. I'll be this evening for sure. I just gotta stop being a big ol' baby right now. Thanks for listening and being there for me. BAF is the best!!!
Mona
March 17, 2006
Hello Everyone,other then having man problems, all is well. What is up with some of these men about someone else's change effecting their lives. It is amazing how fragile some of these manly men are!!!! I was doing this for myself not to catch another man. Shux!!!I thought I already had an intelligent dynamic man in my corner. Oh well...'thought' was the operative word in that statement. Reading the boards, I see that I am not the only one who has to deal with the delicate male ego. Don't get me wrong cause I really care about this very confident southern man, but what can I do? Its been 3 years of a good relationship and now he is backing away. Not getting the surgery is completely out, because I am 49 years old and as everyone knows, middle age is the time where when being overweight is not really a desirable health option. I know an overweight person can relate to health issues.
My date is the 20th and I am happy about that. They just called to offer me an earlier date, but because the 11th is on a Tuesday, it would force me to take off more days. I opted to keep my original date of the 20th so that I can have 11 days of with 2 weekends included. I'll only have to take off a week now. Its all good and I can continue with the plans I have made about doing my colon therapy and liver cleanse program before surgery. Thank you for reading my journal. Y'all come back now!!!
Mona
April 3, 2006
Hey There,
This thing seems to be rolling along now. Tomorrow I go for my pre=opt and start my 2 weeks of liquids. I'm actually looking forward to the liquid phase because I will lose some weight. It's probably going to be hard, but I don't care. I'm sure I will not be the best person to be around. I am worried about my breath though. When you fast like that, halitosis is awful. This is the beginning of a monumental step in my life. I realize that and I'm a little titilated at the prospect of such possitive change in my life. I need this. I am determined that the second half of my life will be quality. This is no joke. My lifestyle will change and I know it is for the better. A healthier me will emerge. That's the most important thing. Being fat can be frustrating sometimes...well most of the time. I have a feeling that I will be doing a lot of journaling in the near future. Ya'll take care now...Ya hear?
Mona
April 5, 2006
How are you today? I went to my pre admission testing and passed with flying colors almost. I saw the nurse, the anesthesiologist, the nutritionist and the combination internist and psychologist. The psychologist was tricky. She never said she was a psychologist. She just pretended she was examining me and started asking all kinds of questions. I played along, but I was honest with her. Some questions were medical and some were clearly personal. It really was painless. My blood work came back that my potassium was a little low and I have to take potassium tablets for 10 days. My BP is controlled but she changed my medication to take out the water pill portion of it. She also told me to increase my salt intake. I thought that was strange and now I am doing the bowel prep by doing full liquids for 2 weeks. I should not have told her that I had to see my cardiologist again because she asked for another release from him before i could have my procedure. All in all, I am doing the full liquids and she told me to eat every two or three hours. This is definitely an experience.
Mona
April, 13, 2006
Hello All,
Just got a call from the Barix Clinic. They asked for another clearance from my cardiologist. My fault because my cadiologist has already cleared me but I mentioned that I was going for a followup, so of course they wanted another clearance. I see the cardiologist tomorrow and my BP is 120/70, so there should be no problem. Anyhoo, I will offically be laying in the bed or on the table about to be banded next Thursday @ 8:00 AM. Ask me how I feel? I don't know. I just feel kind of Blah... because when they do the darn thing, its just me. There have been so many different types of recovery mentioned on the board, I don't know if I'll be a fast healer or a slow one. I'm optimistic about the healing process, but I know that I'll have to get my perspective together before the big morning. I know attitude is everything. Reading the board has been helpful, but when it comes right down to it, we all are individual and handle things in different ways. The only thing to it is to do it...but all in all, I just have to wait and see how I handle coming down to that moment of truth. Can you tell I'm tripping? I have a week to work on my attitude. Ya'll take care.
Mona
April 17, 2006
Hey everybody,
Today I have been so good with my liquids. I can honestly say that I have not cheated. I'm headed to GNC today to get some ISOPURE. That has come highly recommended by my Angel. She's cool people. Its countdown time for me. I've lost 6 pounds on the pre-opt diet and that is all good. I have cheated though. I had a salad yesterday and to tell you the truth, it helped me go to the bathroom. Today I will go to Aldi's and pick up some SF frozen popsicles, pick up my heatpad from my son-in-law and I guess look for some Gas-X since that is so highly recommended. I'm considering a chewable multi-vitamin, but vitamins have always incresed my appetite. I'm hoping that these protein drinks have some vitamins. Anyhoo, I'm getting kind of anxious and stuff. Oh yeah...my cardiologist faxed my second clearance Barix today and everything is full steam ahead for Thursday. Coming this far has been an adventure in itself.
Mona
April 19, 2006
I am almost giddy. I got up this morning blasting my stereo and feeling soooooooooooo good. I'm excited.
April 21, 2006
It was totally uneventful and I am doing very well so far. Wow!!! I have 5 different prescriptions and the surgeon discovered I had a hernia the size of a small egg above my navel. I would never had known untill I felt some pain without having my band put in. I'll get that taken care of at another time as he said it could cause infection if he did them both at the same time. I'll have to lose some weight first. I have 5 incisions and the port is located on the right of my navel about 4 inches up. I like that location. I am totally surprised that I have minimal pain and can drink seemingly normally. Of course this is only the 2nd day, but I am feeling totally straight. No gas pains yet but I am taking the Gas-X. My stomach is poking out like I'm 9 months pregnant though but I don't care. I am finally on the band wagon and very happy about it. I think I am in such a good mood because of all the support and infomation I have gotten off the board. ...and finally for now....guess what? I'm on full liquids for 3 weeks and that is great!!! That is sooooooo cool. I can handle that. They skipped the clear liquids all together. The forth week will be purees and the 5th week soft foods. The sixth week I'll be eating normally. Well....I do want to say one more thing. I really appreciate my Angel and my Angel's Angel. I appreciate that one on one with Solo Dancer and I know your recovery will be extra smooth. Thanks for the Get Well card. I love it!!! You take care now and we'll chat soon. Thanks everyone for keeping the Lap Band Board live and jumping.
Mona
April 22, 2006
I don't have much to complain about. I feel like going to the thrift store to get these King Size pillow cases are still there. I feel greta. I've been putting a heating pad on my belly and the bloting is going down. I don't have pain in my shoulder or belly...just gas. The reason I don't have pain in my stomach is that I did not lay flat directly after surgery. The bed was always in a heads up position. That was a tip a friend gave me to not let the gas travel around. Well...I'm going to try to fight the temptation to go out for another hour or so. Believe me. I feel fine and don't want to blow it by doing to much. I sit in my recliner as I type and I'm getting ready to walk down to the kitchen. I will post on the good and the bad. So far so good.
May, 2, 2006
I am officially 13 days post op and all is well. I'm getting a little bored with the full stage and I'm ret to move on to the mushie phase. I have cheated with no obvious repercussions. I ate a little vegetarian chili and I chewed a beef stic to none existence today. The chil was yesterday and it was about 2 oz. I'm fitting into some of my 20s. I was busting out of them and the 17 pound weight loss has made me feel kind of good. I'm off to a play this evening and off tomorrow. Life is good and I happily look forward to the future.
Future Update
May 9, 2006
Hey everybody,
I am 20 days post-op and I am feeling real good. I have lost 21 pounds and have had no knee pain. I've started back walking and I do 3 miles like its nothing. Although I have had no fill, I do have some restriction, as far as, a little knot when it is time to stop eating. Now instead of feeling that fullnest in my lowere stomach that I love to achieve, I feel it right around the band. That's ok with me. Luv ya.
Mona
May, 25, 2006
Hello All,
I'm back from my first fill and the doctor put me on the rest of today and tomorrow on full and clear liquids. It's ok though because I'll just be eating yogurt, SF popsicles, cream soups, protein shakes, jello ect. You know the pre-opt diet. He gave me his customary hug and the visit began. Anyway, it took maybe 5 minutes. After I laid down on the table with the gown on top of my bra and clothing, he felt for the port and said it would be no problem, the nurse put on the iodine and I felt the needle for a second and he injected the saline. He said I should feel some restriction with it, but said it would probably be a couple of more before I hit my sweet spot. He's conservative with his fills. I felt some restriction already so, I'm hoping I lose some weight before my next appointment in 6 weeks. I'm surprised that I did not gain back any of the 20 pounds I've lost. That was a big surprise because I just got back from vacation and did eat me some Mexican food. This was quite an experience and although I was prepared for it from reading the board, i did experience some anxiety as evidenced by my elevated bllod pressure. I'll check it again tomorrow and it should be my normal 120/75.
I know I have not been posting for a minute, but I had to share this with you and encourage others not to fear the fill experience. it was not all that bad and I feel great with the weight I have lost so far. Ya'll take care.
Mona
May 30, 2006
I hope you all had a lovely memorial day. Mine was nice and quiet. I cooked meat. I had found some turkey mignon wrapped in bacon, some flavorful chicken sausages and some Italian sausage mix that I mixed with turkey and ground beef. I marinated that stuff in some sesame and ginger vinigrette dressing and I have to say it was the bomb and I have protein for the week. i have some restriction and I have to be very careful about the size of my first bite. Haaaaaate that stuck feeling.
June 1, 2006
I'm completely recovered and and my surgeon me released for full exercise. I'm going to tackle a Pilates class at the recreational center later on this month and I'm riding my bike too. Whooooo! Gotta build up some bike stamina. I had gained a few pounds when I was in California, but now that I'm back to my rountine, I've dropped those Tamales and El Pollo Loco pounds. Thanks to all who take time to follow my journey.
