Nicki F.

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I completed the psych eval.  I expected to draw a tree and a house, but I didn't.  I took a 315 question test that basically asked me if I was nuts, suicidal, homicidal, had any eating disorders, or was depressed.  I also had to talk to him about my family, present situation, eating history, and support network.  Then, I had my consult yesterday where I watched the same slideshow as before, but with a different MD.  So, I'm assuming the next thing on the agenda is to make sure my insurance covers it - which it does, getting the paperwork together, and sending for approval.  I think, anyway ...

I had to juggle some of my appointments because of my new job. I can't take time off on specific days because I am in training for the next month and a half, so I pushed back my consultation with the surgeon to July 13th at 8:30 a.m. and my psych evaluation to July 12 at 9 a.m. Some people might think this is really far away, but it isn't. Plus, I've had approval once before 5 months ahead of surgery only to have the insurance company have ample opportunity to relook at the situation. I'd rather have the consult, get approved, and have the surgery very soon after. So, in my opinion, it all works out.

I (along with my partner for support) attended the free bariatric seminar at Community North last night. It was informative; however, they haven't told me anything I didn't already know. The great thing about it is that I know that this is a step that I have to take in order to get to what I want -- the true me!! There is no fee, but if you go through them, know that they require a non-refundable amount of $150.00 before they submit the paperwork to insurance. My surgery consult has been scheduled for May 19, 2005 at 2:00 p.m. and the psychological evaluation is scheduled for immediately after.

My physical went okay. I was very honest on the form and she was surprised. I've gained 5 more lbs. from my last appointment. So, what she is requesting of me is this: 1) Drew my blood to check my sugar levels and thyroid; 2) She will be testing me for stomach ulcers and prescribed Aciphex for me; 3) Have an echocardiogram (treadmill test); 4) Have a breathing test; 5) She wants me to have a nuclear (sp?) med scan - basically where they will put a small amount of radiation in my throat to find out if the goiter I have has gotten bigger, and if so, when/if they will need to operate; 6) She wants me to follow-up with Dr. Neigh's group at Community Hospital North for the bariatric program. So, when all this gets scheduled, I'll post again.

The insurance company sent me my booklets for my plan, but not only that, the lady I talked to was nice enough to send the exact qualifications for medical necessity to have the surgery done (all of the requirements and documentation needed) from their medical booklets! I don't know if she was supposed to do that, but I'm grateful anyway!!

I began my new job with the state today. My new insurance will kick in on April 3, 2005. I cannot wait for this day! Meanwhile, it really BITES not having insurance for a month in between. Of course, I had to get sicker than a dog! Also, I manage to keep gaining weight left and right. I don't even want to think about it at this moment. I'm just happy to have better insurance now!

Well, I met with my PCP today to get checked for diabetes. She took gallons of my blood and says she'll start me on drugs in about two weeks. I broached her about RNY surgery. She stated she thought it would be an excellent idea and suggested I go to the informal class about it! She also said she would give any recommendation I needed in order to have it done. I let her know I'll be switching insurance in about a month and that it would be state benefits and she said “All the better! They for sure cover it!” It was a really supportive appointment and I'm glad I went.

I told my partner today that I want to have surgery. I've never told her about this or any of my intentions in the past before (especially when it has to do with weight stuff) and we've been together for a year. I initially told her I wanted to have a breast augmentation to make them bigger (I'm a 44D now!). She was like 'WHY?! I like them the way they are!' Then, I told her what I really wanted. She was very supportive for me, saying that if this will make me happy, then do it, but she believes I'm beautiful just the way I am. Who could ask for a more loving person in their life?!?