janorn
Here is my story! I am 60 years young, married for 34 years, have 2 sons who are back in Iowa. I have been a RN since 1984 and have work in the ER for over 16 years. My husband and I moved to Las Vegas in 2003. I had a job offer to help open Spring Valley Hospital, so being the adventurous type I said yes and took the job. I worked as the ER night charge nurse for 3 1/2 years. In July of 2006 I fell and caused some back and balance problems. I was unable to work and was placed on disability. In November I had back surgery due to swelling and a bruise on my spinal cord. It seems the cord was arched and pinched between the vertabrae and this was causing my problems. I gained 45 lbs while sitting at home. Became depressed which caused me to eat more. I was at my highest weight of 292#. Before all my balance problems started, I attended the seminar at Desert Springs Hospital in July of 2006 with Dr. Atkinson. I was so impressed I started the process. I spoke with my primary about the insurance requirements and thought things were being documented. When all my back problems started, my weight loss surgery was placed on the back burner. In December 2006 I started the process again. My doctor left the practice and I had to start all over. 2 weeks before my surgery date I was told the insurance company denied my surgery and that my doctor didn't document any of my weight loss. After much discussion with my husband, we decided to go ahead with the surgery and pay for it myself. I just couldn't wait another 6 months. Then we would appeal my case to the insurance company.
On April 25th I had my surgery I was at 287#. I thought the surgery went rather well and was only in the hospital overnight. I found the best thing to do was get out of bed and start walking. This really helped. I am down 45# and feel great. I am so glad I did this for me!
Over the past 45 years I have lost and gained the same 85#. It has been a never ending battle for me. I was so tired of people saying rude and nasty comments about my weight. It was very hurtful and made me eat more. Everyone asks, Isn't it hard to give up so many things. Like sweets, alcohol and carbs. I just answer them truthfully. Yes it is, but I am starting to enjoy life now, I feel good about myself now, and I know this was the right thing for me. I feel so much better and I am starting to look better.
Now if I can just get that darn insurance company to pay up, things will be even better!!
