Sunday, February 12, 2012

Tuesday, August 26, 2008 CalSchap asks

Q: I am on disability and totally unable to work with no health insurance, any type of financial aid?

I am 48yrs old   5'7" and close to 500lbs...I would do anything to get this surgery and avoid an early death,..I have been searching but it has all been in vain as it seems those most able to give me my life back are only concerned with the almighty dollar....PLEASE Somebody?  Anybody? Help Me!!

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Answers (2)
8/26/08 9:35pm

I would do a search at university-medical school hospitals across the nation who might be qwilling to "gift" you the surgery in order to use you as a teaching opportunity for surgical residents.  the attending surgeon is alwyas present overseeing every step of the surgery so you would be assured of his vigilance.  If you can get the surgical costs covered - you might also find out if you are eligible for medical or medicaid for the hospital stay itself.  Good luck.

 

Your other option is to do the harder work of getting on an eating and walking program and it has been done by many morbidly obese individuals so if the (a) journey is not possible I would get a support group together and try the (b) option, which though hard, is cheap and accessiblew if you believe in yourself.

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4/14/09 2:44pm

I was in the same situation, living on SSI and Mediciad...until I found out that Mediciad is now paying for the surgery. I am now in the process of getting all my pre-op tests done so I can get my surgery. So start calling around and find you a Bariatric Surgeon taking Mediciad and get signed up. I wish you the best of luck!!!

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10/ 2/09 11:31am

What state do you live in?  My niece lives in California and so far hasn't had any luck.  All she wants is to have the "apron" removed.  Her apron (loose skin) hangs down past her knees and makes it very difficult for her to do anything.  If you have any advice please contact her kimber62767@aol.com.

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10/ 5/09 5:26pm
I live in Texas...in the Dallas/Fort Worth Area. Medicaid is paying for it all. In fact I now have a surgery date of November 2nd. I am so very excited...I too thought it could never happen. Check to see if medicaid will pay for your surgery and then call around for a bariatric doctor/surgeon who will accept medicaid. I wish you the best and good luck. Reply
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