Alexa's Gastric Sleeve Revision
Donation protected
Hello, for those who do not know me, my name is Alexa. I’m 27 years old and live in Chandler, AZ. I am a full time Executive Administrator at an independent consulting firm, as well as currently half way through my masters degree program with Western Kentucky University online pursuing a sports administration degree with a focus in facility and event management. I live with my incredible boyfriend who is pursuing his bachelors degree at ASU.
I have quite the medical story. I have been overweight my entire life and always had an extremely high white blood cell count since I can remember. I’ve had countless tests done over the years with little to no answers and I was never able to lose the weight on my own.
In 2012 I had the gastric sleeve procedure done where they removed a majority of my stomach. This was a successful surgery where I maintained a healthy weight and lifestyle for over 5 years.
However, about a year ago I noticed a few new issues with my gastric sleeve including constant hunger, intense pain in my stomach and esophagus before eating and after eating, and you guessed it, weight gain. I have gained almost all of it back and it has caused a lot of physical and mental strain. I am in weekly therapy to trying to cope with it all.
About 8 months ago I went back to my original surgeon to discuss these new issues. After 6 months of work with a nutritionist, therapist, and doctors, I have officially been approved for a revision on my gastric sleeve by performing the duodenal switch. I am so excited. My surgery date is December 9th, 2019.
However, due to my job and an independent companies health insurance, my surgical fees are $2,800 out of pocket. And that is before any hospital or anesthesia fees. And it must be paid in full by December 5th, before surgery. As 2 independent full time students, we are struggling to find a comfortable way to hand over $3000+. On top of all of these expenses, I recently found out I do not receive financial aid for my final two masters degree classes. So that will be over $2,000 out of pocket as well.. I am asking for help in whatever way possible so I can have my life back without causing strain on us or my parents who are always willing to help any way they possibly can. I cannot thank my friends and family enough for their support over this insane 10+ year process. But I finally see the light at the end of it all. Anything helps. Thank you so much.
I have quite the medical story. I have been overweight my entire life and always had an extremely high white blood cell count since I can remember. I’ve had countless tests done over the years with little to no answers and I was never able to lose the weight on my own.
In 2012 I had the gastric sleeve procedure done where they removed a majority of my stomach. This was a successful surgery where I maintained a healthy weight and lifestyle for over 5 years.
However, about a year ago I noticed a few new issues with my gastric sleeve including constant hunger, intense pain in my stomach and esophagus before eating and after eating, and you guessed it, weight gain. I have gained almost all of it back and it has caused a lot of physical and mental strain. I am in weekly therapy to trying to cope with it all.
About 8 months ago I went back to my original surgeon to discuss these new issues. After 6 months of work with a nutritionist, therapist, and doctors, I have officially been approved for a revision on my gastric sleeve by performing the duodenal switch. I am so excited. My surgery date is December 9th, 2019.
However, due to my job and an independent companies health insurance, my surgical fees are $2,800 out of pocket. And that is before any hospital or anesthesia fees. And it must be paid in full by December 5th, before surgery. As 2 independent full time students, we are struggling to find a comfortable way to hand over $3000+. On top of all of these expenses, I recently found out I do not receive financial aid for my final two masters degree classes. So that will be over $2,000 out of pocket as well.. I am asking for help in whatever way possible so I can have my life back without causing strain on us or my parents who are always willing to help any way they possibly can. I cannot thank my friends and family enough for their support over this insane 10+ year process. But I finally see the light at the end of it all. Anything helps. Thank you so much.
Organizer
Alexa Loren Starky
Organizer
Chandler, AZ