Question:
I am 6 months post-op and 1 month pregnant, and I still weigh 325lbs,

despite my 100lb weight loss. I have no insurance anymore, I switched jobs and it doesnt kick in for another 90 days, This was a total accident. I am 33, no kids, no husband, this was the first time I had been intimate in over 8 years, and I will be getting no help from him, as he has already dumped me. I am so scared, so scared I will be hurting the baby by not being able to see a dr, by still being so heavy, my so called friend told me to have an abortion, but I cant bring myself to do such a thing. Can anyone tell me if their is some insurance company out there that will insure me, I dont know where to go or what to do.    — elizabeth B. (posted on July 18, 2002)

July 18, 2002
Are there any free medical clinics in your area? You could also contact social services or go somewhere like Planned Parenthood, they have a sliding fee schedule. Different pregnancy testing centers that are free also are able to help connect you to getting the proper healthcare while you are uninsured. I hope you do fine with being only 6 months post op. Make sure you do everything you can do in your power to stay healthy. Best Wishes in the next year to come. Take care of yourself.
   — Christy B.

July 18, 2002
Elizabeth, I agree with Christy...You should be able to get help from a free clinic. Here in NY there is a program called PCAP- a special program to make sure every pregnant Mom gets prenatal care NO MATTER what...It's important for you and your baby. Please contact your local clinic. Also, see if your local Head Start has an Early Head Start program. It serves pregnant women too. Good Luck!
   — Metsfan91

July 18, 2002
Try your local welfare office. In Indiana pregnancy medicaid has the highest income standards of all the programs. I bet it's the same with most states. Until you can get into an OBGYN perhaps you can get prenatal advice from your surgeon. What about Cobra? By law you have to be offered your prior insurance so perhaps you can pay your premium and get back on it. Good Luck!
   — Candace F.

July 18, 2002
I don't know if Planned Parenthood is nationwide, but I would look in the phone book and see if there is one locally. I know they do all kinds of medical services for free, including ob/gyn and general medical services.
   — Jennifer Y.

July 18, 2002
As a pregnant women you are entitled to medical coverage through your states social services. Call information and ask for your county's social services department. They will get you signed up for Medical for your prenatal, delivery and will also cover your baby after delivery. When you do get to a doctor, tell them your situation, (WLS) and you will more then likley be seen by a high risk OB. As for not getting any help from the father, he may have dumped you , but don't let him get off that easy, it takes two to tango, and social services will go after him for free to get child support. Most states attach wages, so he definetley will be paying. Email me if you would like to chat. Carey
   — Carey N.

July 18, 2002
I don't know where you stand on the adoption issue but I just wanted to let you know that my husband and I adopted our daughter 20 months ago through an adoption lawyer. They have it arranged where the birth parents pick the adoptive parents and we payed her medical, law and living costs. We continue to have a relationship with her and she see's the baby once or twice a year. I think it worked out great for all involved...Our daughters birth parents are happy, our daughter is happy and we are OVER JOYED to be parents after being married for 12 years with no children. Good luck in all of your decisions and I hope I didn't offend you by mentioning this.
   — mamadawny

July 18, 2002
Look in the phone book for crisis pregnancy centers. These place are pro-life, and back it up with assistance to pregnant moms in situations like yours who find it difficult to go through a pregnancy but don't like the alternative either. They can help with maternity clothes, baby clothes, high chairs, etc. I got pregnant at 275, 90 pounds and 6 months post my VBG four years ago, with my surgeons blessing. It was a lot of instant breakfast those nine months, but the baby was healthy and growing on schedule the entire time. The did some extra sonograms to make sure! If you need some help, e-mail me. I can help you work through this. REALLY!
   — Karen F.

July 18, 2002
elizabeth, Contact your local health dept.(look in yellow pages or city directory) Every state has help for prenatal care when you cannot afford it. They can also provide help after baby with formula, etc. Don't worry too much about the baby, they have a way of getting what they need. I had 2 successful pregnancies before WLS at a weight of 300+. Both my children are perfectly healthy. Please don't skimp on prenatal care -especially with WLS - babies are just too important! Take care of yourself, eat right, see your doctor and don't worry. Just because you don't expect help from the father - you are entitled to it- so ask for it. It is not for you, but for your baby.
   — Pam W.

July 19, 2002
Elizabeth, You can do this! Everyone that has posted is right. Contact the Texas Department of Human Services in your area. If nothing else, they will send you in the right direction. DO NOT be to proud to ask for help. You have worked and paid taxes. Yes, TDHS & The Texas Attorney General's office will go after the male & garnish his wages. They just love the dead beat or run away dad. Go to WIC and sign up for their service. You rcv vouchers for milk, cheese, juice, beans, peanut butter, tuna and other high protein foods. If you would like to email me you can. Be strong & remember you are loved! Janie
   — TexFlutterby

July 19, 2002
HI, MY DAUGHTER HAD A BABY LAST YEAR THROUGH THE HEALTH DEPARTMENT SYSTEM. SHE HAD BETTER CARE THAN I HAD WITH ANY OF MY THREE KIDS. SHE USED A WONDERFUL HOSPITAL AND DIDN'T MISS ANYTHING AT ALL. I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN OBESE. I HAD THREE KIDS AND NEVER GAINED ANY WIEGHT WITH ANY OF THEM EXCEPT THE LAST ONE WHO IS 6. I GAINED 4 POUNDS THE LAST MONTH. I WOULD ONLY BE CONCERENED THAT YOU GET ENOUGH MILK AND VITAMINS SINCE YOU ARE NOT EATING A LOT. PLEASE SEE THE DOCTOR. YOU WILL DO FINE.
   — Pam G.

July 19, 2002
I think you should seek help from your local,public health department. You have a blessing growing inside of you,don't let anyone discourage you from having this baby. You do what you think is right. Consult your doctor and start prenatal care NOW.You can buy the vitamins over the counter. Good luck!!
   — yolanda W.

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