Greetings from Oklahoma. I am Cheyenne woman, 52 years of age. I have been obese over 35 years and a diabetic for over three years. Insulin dependant with several other health problems. My insurance denied me for this surgery. But the Creator said I could have it. Myfamily, church family, extended family and friends all helaped me raise the $25,000.00 needed for this surgery. I am now down from 430 pounds to 260. and pretty healthy now. If I didn't have this surgery I know that I would not be here this holiday season. I am cured from Diabeties and many of the health problems. I am able to do things for myself that I haven't been able to do for years. I will pray with you that things will turn around for you. God Bless!!!!! Diane www.buffalowalkingwoman.com

Greetings from Oklahoma. I am Cheyenne and had my surgery in Sept 2003, I have lost over 160 pounds. Am feeling great better than I haved in over 30 years. I was glad to find a Native American page. I am trying find a way for the Native Americans to be made aware that this type of surgery cures Diabeties in obese people. I have been cured of it. Diane www.buffalowalkingwoman.com

IT WOULD BE REALLY GREAT IF WE COULD GET IT A LITTLE BUSIER....

Wow I didnt know there was a native american forum...this is great....

It is nice to see this message board! As far as my heritage well... I call myself a PREGO-Cause Everything is in Me!! Bad joke it is, but it is true!! My husband and 2 stepdaughters are FB Yup'ik from around the Yukon river area, in Alaska. Walter grew up in a village near Pilot Mountain. And the girls use to live in Kwethluk. We are talking serious bush area! We got our girls in 8/1/01. And I had gotten sick in April of 2001. Been on disability since 7/01, which is very rough on a confirmed workaholic. We are trying really hard to get me well and save up some $$$ so we can move back to A****il then we are stuck in my homestate of NC. The only good thing to come out of my illnesses, is that I have been home to be with the girls, we were able to bond a lot faster, and I was there to help them over the culture shock! I am so thankful for my Walter and our two girls! If it wasn't for them, I would have just given up and checked out a long time ago. The possibility of a life with those 3 keeps me fighting & pushing myself harder!! (How did this turn into a BOOHOO fest???? ) I am still trying to find a doctor, this is my third rejection for financial or because of my health reasons (AAlthough the health ones just don't want to risk their records, should I have a complication)! Anyhoo, take care and let me hear from ya'll! Cathy