Support Group

Hello All!!!

I've never posted on here but I lurk all the time. I spend most of my time on the RNY board. Anyway, yesterday I went to my very first support group. I was sitting with my friend who just had RNY last Thursday and this gentleman came up and asked how she was doing. He then turns to me and asks "How long ago did you have your surgery?" A little taken back I said, 'Oh I haven't had surgery yet." He looks me up and down and says, "Really, I don't think you look like you should be having surgery." Loud infront of everyone. I was so embarrassed. 

So let me tell you, I'm 5 foot nothing and I weigh 225.  I carry all my weight low so my face is thin, my shoulders are small so I guess sitting down I look like I don't need this but I do. Sorry for the rant...just needed to vent. Thanks for listening!!!

~Megan

I got the same thing at my first support group. Welcome to the club!  

--gina

Thanks Gina!! That's what I said to my friend after he walked away, just because I'm not 300lbs doesn't mean I don't need this surgery. We all have our own battles and demons.

Yeah, sometimes I think we should list our comorbidities on our name tag. {sigh}

yep, we all get it.  Just keep on keeping on.

Welcome to the LW group...yeah, totally understand where you are. The IRL support groups I attended, I had the same issue. No one believed that I was heavy enough for surgery.

Liz

It is frustrating to be "stuck in the middle" and accepted by none....too heavy for the skinny people, and too thin for the stereotypical WLS patient.  That is why I love this board!  There are so many just like us, who understand, and support! Are you planning on having surgery?  Only asking since you said "yet"...

I am. I'm planning on having RNY. I wanted to have the sleeve, but my insurance says my BMI has to be above 50 and it's 43. Thanks for the reply...what you said is so true!

You CAN appeal that esp if you need or have a family history of needing NSAIDS. I would appeal if at all possible.

Since Medicare now covers the sleeve, you should be able to appeal that ruling.

Good luck and GET the surgery you want...

Liz

It was the same thing for me. I became very self conscious about 'not' feeling overweight enough. I'm very active with my support group and attend twice a month. I hope the things I share help and encourage others if they have self doubts. This was the very best thing I've ever done! I love my sleeve!

~gwen