Hello from Up state ny- Im new to the boards.

Hello, My name is rebecca and im 32. Just recently moved back home from sunny florida to the blistery weather of good old NY. People ask me why would I ever move back here from such warm beautiful weather. My answer to that is My prayers were answered. Heavenly father wanted me back home maybe because it was easier to get insurance for the WLS here or maybe because my family is in such turmoil right now. My youngest sister in out of control she has a serious drug problem and a boyfriend that has an even worse problem. I feel so helpless. I wish I could make her check into a rehab. But well we all know that thing about free will. Well anyway hope to make some pals on here maybe I will hear something from one of you that will help me help my family

Welcome Rebecca. My name is Melody and you'll probably see a few posts from me now and then. I like to chat and visit. I read your profile and wasn't the bit surprised to read in your interests area that you are a published author. You have quite a way with words. You didn't post anything personal about your life. It's a little bit helpful to us to know how to help you if we know a little more about you. Now to address your quest for WLS. I saw that your insurance is Medicaid. That usually tells me that you are either disabled from an injury, disease or illness or else you are morbidly obese to the point that it prevents your working. I think the first place you need to begin in your quest for WLS is to contact the medicaid office in NY and find out if they cover the surgery (most states do). If you haven't already, you need to get onto the NY Medicaid program. Most Medicaid programs require that you follow a doctor's DOCUMENTED six month diet plan. This doctor's documented requirement is crucial for Medicaid to pay for WLS. They can be a real bugger about denying things for the smallest reason. Even the best LDS families have problems. I think Satan works overtime on LDS families to try to tear them apart and try to get his grip on them in any way that he can. I have a sister who struggles with alcoholism. I have a father who is a priesthood holder (an elder) who smokes and does not exercise his priesthood. I have a husband who is a non member. What I'm trying to tell you is that we all have our challenges and problems. Your's are not the only ones out there. Come back to the boards often. I check them everyday and try to respond when I see a post. Sometimes I even initiate a post. Come share your progress. We're here to help in any way that we can. From a frozen Idaho. Your sister Melody

Thanks for some perspective on the situation. Yesterday i was full of doom and gloom however today I feel much more optimistic. I already have been in contact with the medicaid people and to my surprise I didnt need any approval from the medicaid people. Yes I get Medicaid because I have arthritis that has crippled me almost. Somedays are better than others. I am 32 years old and one of 12 kids(big LDS family). I am married to a wonderful man who adores me fat or no fat. ( A precious gift from heavenly father). I love to write and make people smile and for the most part I Love Life. Melody I will pray for you and yours. 51 degrees today can ya believe it? lol Didnt mean to sound whiney yesterday lol Thawing out slowly in ny becca

Hi my name is Sherrie - I live in Texas - but I used to live in Fairport - I think upstate NY is beautiful!! I am sorry to hear about your sister - it's true that you are powerless to help with that, but you can pray for her - thats the best thing to do. I am glad you found this board - hope to see you post here more often! -Sherrie