Anyone around Effingham, IL?

Hello everyone! I am new to OH, but I am very hopeful that my life will start to change. I am 5'8 and I weight 230 lbs. I have IL medicaid which I am hoping will cover my weight loss actions (whatever they may be). I have an appointment with my PCP this coming Wedsday, but I am really afraid she isnt going to take me seriously on this matter. Has anyone here had Dr. Rozene in Effingham and dealt with obesity? I am hoping she will refer me to a bariatric surgeoun soon, but I really dont know what to expect. Also, has anyone in Effingham county tried or been approved for diet medication/WLS? Thanks! Sheri

Hi Sheri - Just wanted to welcome you to OH. This is a great place to get support and meet new people that are going thru or have been thru what you're going thru. I wish I could help you out w/ you questions but I don't have the answers. Just wanted to give you a warm welcome. ((Hugs)) Christina

hello , i used to live in effingham!!!! i miss it! good luck with the doctor! what is you BMI?

Hi there, I currently have a BMI of 35. I discovered today that last year I actually had a 40, but I refused to look at the scale during my last doctor appt. I was hoping to have a lapband, but I have hit a wall with it. I found one very reputible surgeon who would do it, but does not take my insurance. I would have to self pay or get a loan. I found one other facility that would take the "medical card" but will not touch me because my BMI has come down in the last year. THis is so frustrating. Now my PCP reccomended trying prescription pills (which scares the heck out of me), but my insurance wont pay for it. I have to pay for the entire thing myself.  Sheri

I am moving to Kansas, Illinois in June. I believe that is not too far from Effingham. I feel for your situation. throughout the years I have tried every diet plan, pill , shake there is...so I can relate. One thing have you had your thyroid function checked to make sure it is functioning properly. Sometimes that can contribute to inability to lose and also polycystic ovary syndrome..which basically is a condition that develops from obesity. If you can have a sleep study done to show you have sleep apnea and any other conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol..that often will help with approval. I would try and steer away from prescription pills they just aren't the best alternative. I have used Jenny Craig and overall it is a good program..its just a bit costly.  Unfortunately, depression goes hand in hand with obesity and that adds to your problem too. This site is helpful with listing of doctors in your area and gives their stats so you know what they have done and years of experience. My doctor in Wichita Falls, Texas if you are willing to travel could probably help you. He is wonderful and people come to him from all over the states and world for that matter. It might be worth a phone call just to check. His name is Dr. Kenneth Warnock. Here is his website address http://bariatricsoftexas.com/home.htm I know it would be much easier and cost effective to find someone closer though. Best to you and don' t give up.  Karen

Hi, My BMI is about a 35 or 36 right now. Last year I was a 40...so I have made some progress, but not much.