Huge burden lifted...going to Tijuana for Dr. Ariel Ortiz

**tonilee2** · 02-18-2013 09:58 PM

Hi Everyone-I've been lurking for a while now...gathering information on this website and others. Always reluctant about posting. People on this webiste have been awesome. I know I'm going to need many forms of emotional support post-surgery, so I've registered on a few sites. This forum is the best!

Well, my husband isn't totally thrilled due to the cost but... After a seminar at a local Barix Center, I've decided to go ahead with surgery in Mexico. Currently awaiting clearance with Dr. Ariel Ortiz at the Obesity Control Center in Tijuana.

Cannot put myself through the MiBCN (Blue Cross HMO of Michigan) hoops. Won't make it 'til next year...too many restrictions, requirements, etc. I'm on my way. Feeling so grateful. Just waiting for final clearance and booking tomorrow!

Wish me the best. We'll get there together!

**Truebody** · 02-18-2013 10:11 PM

Hi there - you certainly have some grit. Good for you pushing ahead with what you believe you need in the face of mild resistance etc from the family. I'm glad you've posted and are using the site. It's good for all of us to communicate and talk and open up the channels to let those deep dark feelings get some fresh air.
Look forward to hearing more about your journey. Keen to hear how things go.

**tonilee2** · 02-18-2013 10:34 PM

Originally Posted by Truebody

Hi there - you certainly have some grit. Good for you pushing ahead with what you believe you need in the face of mild resistance etc from the family. I'm glad you've posted and are using the site. It's good for all of us to communicate and talk and open up the channels to let those deep dark feelings get some fresh air.
Look forward to hearing more about your journey. Keen to hear how things go.

Thank yo so much for the thoughtful and kind reply. I am at peace with my decision. I should have done something years ago but I thought I had a handle on my weight with diet, counseling and some exercise. Not so! I do not want to end up very ill, immobilized or worse! Thank you so much, Jen!

**JennHug** · 02-18-2013 10:57 PM

Great decision! Best wishes!

**L.Gould** · 02-18-2013 11:13 PM

Hey fellow Michigan resident, I wish you the best! I went to TJ Mexico last September, I would do it again in a heartbeat. Hope you have a successful and easy recovery as I did.

**Maia0628** · 02-18-2013 11:18 PM

Wishing you all the best!!! Welcome to the forum & good for you on making a choice for yourself. As women we tend to put everyone else first & this is part of the reason so many of us become obese. We eat our problems because we have to be the rock for our families!!! Welcome to the forum fellow Michigander

**Texas Girl** · 02-19-2013 08:32 AM

Congratulations! You will be in wonderful hands with Dr Ortiz - he and his staff are amazing!!

My family wasn't 100% on board with going to Mexico either, but I handed over all my research on Dr Ortiz and asked them to find me a reason NOT to do it. Once they did the research for themselves, they were completely on board and supportive. My dad even ended up paying for almost 75% of it so I could get it done ASAP.

Good luck!!!

**tonilee2** · 02-19-2013 12:01 PM

Thank you everyone for all the encouragement and support. I realize that if I'm going to feel supported, I have to continue with websites like this one 'cause I'm NOT going to receive much support from this end.

My husband's mood has really soured and I asked him to tell me what is bothering him. He said, "You know I am displeased with your decision to pay out-of-pocket for WLS in Tijuana...you're too lazy & impatient to do this through MiBCN Blue Cross/Blue Shield."

He doesn't get it. I worked in Managed Care in NYC for many years prior to going into foster care. I know in my heart of hearts that MiBCN Blue Cross is NOT going to cover my surgery in my current condition. I cannot fathom having to wait another 12 or 18 months AND going through the stress of the health care appeals process.

This is the person I married and I love him. But when it comes to certain things, my life will be made difficult. This is another reason I want to have the surgery sonner than later. I'm afraid that due to his pressure, I'll buckle and not have the surgery done.

People just don't seem to get it, do they?