Shelly's Surgery

Hello, my name is Shelly and just over 6 years ago I had the amazing opportunity to have weight loss surgery. After spending my entire life overweight, I finally was able to make some permanent changes. I was lucky enough to have my medical insurance cover the surgery and lost an amazing 185 pounds! Some people say that bariatric surgery is 'the easy way' to lose weight, but I assure you it is not. I have changed life long (bad) habits, and have developed new, healthy ones! It has been the best thing and I am so happy not only with my results, but also just knowing that I will live a longer, healthier life.

 

As you can imagine, my extreme weight loss has added another difficulty...excess skin. This excess skin, and the weight that comes with it, has caused many other health concerns for me. Along with chronic rashes/skin infections, I also have been dealing with a back injury that hasn't been able to heal properly and in a timely manner. I am once again, one of the lucky ones, where my medical insurance has agreed to pay for the majority of the surgery! However, there is one important part of the surgery that will not be covered.

 

I have what is referred to as "Rectus abdominus with separation". This has happened due to the amount of time I have had extra fat/weight in my abdominal area, which has created a vertical gap in my core muscles. Unfortunately, this gap that has been created can not be fixed with exercise and must be sewn together.

 

 

 

By having this part of the surgery, I will finally be able to develop stronger core muscles which will no doubt, help my back issues. My surgeon is able to add this into the part of my covered surgery for minimal cost.

 

Here is the surgery quote from the doctor (I did black out my address for safety reasons).

 

 

 

I am, and have always been open and honest about my weight loss journey. In the name of transparency, I would like to say that I have a portion of this balance available (about $2000) on my FSA Card that I will contribute, but would like (if at all possible) to save in case of any other medical expenses that come up with me and/or my family over the rest of the year. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask me!

 

Well, if you made it this far in my story, thank you! If you aren't able to donate, I totally understand! This has been a tough few years for all of us. My surgery is scheduled for March 24, 2022 and I have until 4 weeks before to let my surgeon know if I will be adding the additional procedure.

 

If at all possible, please share my story. Even if I am unable to get this part of the surgery, I hope that my story will help others!

 

Thank you! Shelly