27 Years Old, Tired of Yo-Yoing - Philadelphia, PA

Where do I even start?

I've been a big girl for most of my life. Starting around 10 y/o or so, I was always the big girl in school. I've heard all the wonderful backhanded compliments a big girl can get.

"You do that well for a girl of your size."
"Aw, you've at least got a pretty face."
"I didn't know you could be that stretchy for being so big." (I do yoga...)
"I would date you if you were a little smaller."

Just a sampling, that I'm sure anyone who is considering getting sleeved has heard many times in their life, and if not, I'm happy you're surrounded by people who know when to shut their mouths.

Anyways, I'm 5'5'' and 256 lbs currently. I've not taken measurements, I probably should at some point, but I know I'm well over in BMI to qualify for surgery without any co-morbidities. Though I do have plenty of aches and pains in my joints and back from carrying this extra weight. (Plus being a nurse.)

So after many years of yo-yoing and contemplating the surgery, I visited the Barix Clinics in Langhorne, PA and spoke with Dr. Marymor for my first consult back on 12/15/16. He pulls no punches and is to the point, but you can tell he's compassionate and thorough in what he does. He basically covered all my questions I had before I even asked them, I left feeling reassured and like I would be in good hands.

According to Barix, my insurance will cover some of the cost. Which is a relief (though honestly, after much consideration with my SO, I'd pay outright as I consider this an investment in my own health and well-being) and per the insurance company they would only need a nutrition eval and a pysch eval. Dr. Marymor required blood work (A1C and a TSH) and an Upper GI (non-endoscopy).

I finished the last of my preliminary testing yesterday, with blood work. Nothing was really unpleasant, I wasn't sure how I'd like doing barium swallows for my upper GI, but the radiologist and his assistant were great and according to them, everything looked great on the x-ray. No reflux, no ulcers.

So now, I'm just waiting for the approval via insurance and to get a surgery date. I'm hoping it'll be soon, it'd be a lovely start for the new year and one less thing to feel crappy about following this terrible 2016.

Happy New Year! Yay for 2017!

Behold, my current size. Everything is jiggly and squishy. Hiding my face creatively is a new challenge too.

Great news! My insurance covers 100% of costs! I only have to do a $200 copay for the hospital stay. I'm excited and relieved.

Barix Clinic informed me that I should hear back by Wednesday to schedule a surgery date.

I've already been implementing some of the diet changes before surgery... and replacing meals with protein drinks. I'm feeling pretty confident at this point.