That's my story....

Sep 29, 2009

I am 52, soon to be 53 in another month.  I could have titled this "I was a teenaged model" but I didn't.  I grew up tall, skinny and used to turn heads.  After my brief modeling career at 22 I entered into a loveless marriage.   I began a ten-year steady climb up the weight ladder.  No children - just a lot of stress and unhappiness.  I left the marriage and went on Opti-Fast.  I lost 30 lbs but put in back on when I went off the shakes.  I leveled out at 270 lbs and stayed there for many years.

In 2001 I was diagnosed with type II diabetes. Two years ago I was diagnosed with colon cancer and had surgery to remove the cancer.  During my recovery I was on some new meds and put on an additional 30 lbs.  Where at 270 I was a functioning fatty at 300 everything became a struggle.  My knees and other joints became very painful.  I went off the meds but the extra weight stayed.

I started looking at weight loss surgery in '08.  I wanted to do it then but my mother was diagnosed with cancer.  I started taking care of her and put myself on the back burner.  Then earlier this year my dad was diagnosed with prostate cancer.  He went through treatment and is cancer free.  Mom is in remission.  Now it is my turn.

I did my research and found that a Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy suited my physical condition (after the colon cancer).  Problem is my insurance, BCBS of Tennessee, does not cover it.  I am working with my surgeon to get approval.  If it is not approved I don't know what I will do.  An RNY is not an option.

I come here to Obesity Help to read other people's stories to gain support.

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