ObesityHelp

I am most interested in lap surgery. I had lap gallbladder surgery in 1993. I said I would never consider WLS as A beloved cousin had what he called "a smaller stomach built inside his existing stomach" several years ago and has been in terrible health since. He has never really stopped vomitting a lot, has had a stroke and heart attack (possibly from blood clot), had to have surgery to repair adhesions that caused tearing which led to internal bleeding causing SEVERE anemia, etc. All that scares me, but I am SO tired of being obese. I've tried all the wt. loss techniques and have lost up to 100 lbs. on more than one occasion - with Rice diet and then on phen/fen. My top wt was 346 which I have not totally regained (only about 10 lbs after 2 1/2-3 yrs - lost it on phen/fen - I could've been the poster child for them - all plus, no complications). I have tried Metabolife - great for energy and maintenance but not much additional wt loss. Family history of diabetes, morbid obesity, heart disease, hypertension, and cancer (brain, breast, colon). I take Diazide for mild hbp, Prilosec for reflux, and Effexor for depression (since divorce 3 yrs ago - ex said wt made a difference but I think that was rationalizing on his part - married 17 yrs and I was never skinny). I teach for a community college that serves TX prison units which involves travel, stairs, and some light lifting as we transport our materials. My insurance carrier is BC/BS Health Select; my PCP has suggested WLS several times, and I have a consult scheduled with him 9-29-99. Any info/ suggestions would be appreciated. I'm concerned about RNY because of cousin's experience, but understand that VGB often fails. First attracted to AGB info found on net; thought I might have it done in Mexico to cut costs. Comments? Recommendations for surgeons? Advice on wording for BC/BS? I really feel this WLS is necessary. Thanks.