EISAI ROCKS - I think we found a provider

I just heard from my local Eisai Rep.  She's going to be calling me tonight to give me some information on providers in the Houston area that prescribe Belviq.  So that will soon solve my issue as well as another local person hopefully.  EISAI ROCKS!!!!!!!!  And so does Leighann!!!!

We're still waiting to hear from the Miami are rep - I think they actually already have the physician contact information and they are just trying to get a visit it. 

These Eisai reps are EXTREMLY busy trying to get the word out to these physicians.  I appreciate everything they do for everyone.

I'm doing my 6 week weigh in Friday.  Are you excited????????  I'm NERVOUS.  I "HOPE" for 2 things:  1, I hope to break under the 270 mark.  If I do that, it will be the first time in over 5 years since I was under 270.  and 2, I hope to have lost at least 25 pounds total.  Why?  It's the 1/2 mark of my short term 50 lb goal.  It will mean SO much to do that.

I made a deal with those that I went to high school with.  Our 25 year reunion is this year.  Now, if you haven't already read my story, you will see here at

http://marketplayground.com/2013/07/29/arena-pharmaceuticals-inc-nasdaqarna-and-anti-obesity-drug-belviq-the-eillie-wenker-story/ that my years in junior high and high school were very painful.  I didn't go to any other reunion.  But, I told the girls planning the reunion that if I lost 50 pounds by October, I would go.  CRAZY?  Why yes!  But I can do it because I still have 2.5 months to get it done and I KNOW I can do it.  Let's do the math, if I lose 2 pounds a week, its literally 12 weeks from now.  That's 24 pounds.  So, it can be done in a very healthy manner.    PLUS, one of the girls on the planning committee, Ashley (Dill) Martin, was the homecoming queen - a very beautiful person inside and out.  We have gotten to know each other more over that year or so.  I told her that if I come, I WANT A CROWN!!!!!  Let's see if it happens.  I'll of course get that on video hahaha

 

XOX

Ellie

 

PS - THANKS SPENCER OSBORNE for writing a wonderful article and his side kick Demian Russian for getting it formatted, etc and up on marketplayground.com. 

Physician lack of knowledge on Belviq

Today I was trying to help out 2 separate people who are desperately trying to find physicians who will prescribe Belviq.  One is looking for a family member in the Miami area.  His doctor wouldn't prescribe Bevliq because they had never heard of it and wanted to "research" it.

The 2nd actually used my primary doctor.  That Doctor left the practice and now we BOTH are in the same shoes.  She lives a little further out so I am hoping to find her a doctor in Humble.  I will use my personal contact at my orthopedics' office to try to try to find one local. 

We need these doctors educated ASAP!!!!!  There so few Belviq pharma reps that they are already stretched thin.  They are wonderful!  Hopefully my local Belviq rep will respond to my email asking for local resources.  The one girl - her trial ended today and lost 9 pounds and she doesn't want to go long without!  I need my RX refill Friday!!!!!!!!! 

FRUSTRATING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Ellie Wenker Story

Thank you Spencer Osborne for this amazing article and story about my journey to Belviq and with Belviq this far. 

This is probably the most accurate story of my journey so I encourage you all to read.  You may relate at some point in my life.  Please share your thoughts!!

http://marketplayground.com/2013/07/29/arena-pharmaceuticals-inc-nasdaqarna-and-anti-obesity-drug-belviq-the-eillie-wenker-story/

BLOG MILESTONE......

at 1:40 pm CST - I HIT 20,007 Views on my blog!!  THANK YOU !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Belviq won't let you cheat - much!!

So last night was going to be my first official major cheat day since starting Belviq.  Epic failure!  I had a couple drinks and me and the bestie decided to go eat a late late dinner.  By the time my food made it to my table, I couldn't even eat.  I was like, blech!  YAY!!!  ha!

I haven't had ANY appetite today!   I've had somewhat of an emotional day.  Without going in to details, usually when I have the exact kind of day like today, I BINGE eat like crazy.  Belviq effected me the complete opposite! 

I believe the article about my story will be published early next week.  I will let you know when I find out and of course, post the link so you can read it!!!  It's well worth the read!!

Also, Friday will be my 2 week weigh in!  Are you ready??????? Sooooo excited.

This will be short as I am emotionally exhausted.  Tomorrow is my blogging day off.  See you all on Monday!!

xoxox
Ellie

19,000 Views & Eisai

I started this blog one month ago with nothing more in mind than to tell my story and my struggles and have family/friend support.  It blossomed almost immediately!!  As a result, I have many other Belviq patients, both who have been on for a bit or how are just 1 or 2 days in, posting messages and we are all able to support each other.  I also have had contact with a few Eisai pharmacy Sales reps who are inspired by my story.  Hopefully I can be an inspiration through them for many other doctors as they get the word out about this new RX.  One said they even talked about me during a team conference call.  I feel BLESSED beyond words.  They are all so wonderful so.....

GO Team Eisai!  (Sorry, I had to give a shout since they are always so kind).  So any of you doctors out there, please welcome these wonderful people with open arms and ask them what took them so long!!!!!!

I had the most delicious Salad today.  Mixed greens with some spinach (I don't like cooked spinach, but it was good in my salad in mild portions), yummy vinaigrette dressing, and  tomatoes it may sound plain to you, but with EVERYTHING so fresh, it was absolutely delicious!  Plus, I have a save a few calories because our office is having a happy hour tonight.  I am the HR Manager so I have to be there.  Suggestions on a low calorie adult beverage?  I only can have one with my diet to stay with my portion control and too keep focus on the prize.  So suggest away!!

Next Friday will be my 6 week weigh in.  I am excited and nervous as always.  So get ready for that.

Also, early next week, my story will be published in an article format.  I will give you details when I know when, etc.  I have already previewed it and I have to say, brought me sadness and happiness all at the same time.  I want ALL of my readers to read my story and get to know me and how I came to where I am today!!!  Stay tuned!!

Ok, well, happy hour is in a few hours, so I need suggestions ASAP.  Ready, Set, SUGGEST...............

Exciting Nomination for Belviq

My friend on facebook posted this great new release about Belviq.  That's exciting!!!!!!

Arena Pharmaceuticals' BELVIQ(R) (lorcaserin HCl) CIV Nominated for 2013 Prix Galien USA Award

SAN DIEGO, July 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: ARNA) today announced that BELVIQ® (lorcaserin HCl) has been nominated for the 2013 Prix Galien USA Award in the Best Pharmaceutical Agent category. BELVIQ is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for chronic weight management in adults.

The Prix Galien Award is considered one of the biomedical industry's top accolades, as it recognizes outstanding achievements in improving the human condition through the development of innovative therapies. Nominees are selected from among those medicines and devices approved by the FDA in the last five years.
...
"BELVIQ is a novel single agent internally discovered at Arena, and was the first new prescription weight-loss treatment approved by the FDA in 13 years," said Dominic P. Behan, Ph.D., Arena's Executive Vice President and Chief Scientific Officer. "Nomination for the Prix Galien is a prestigious honor that is underscored by the caliber of innovative therapies included alongside BELVIQ in this category."

The Prix Galien Award ceremony will be held in New York City on October 22, 2013.

About BELVIQ® (lorcaserin HCl) CIV

BELVIQ (pronounced BEL-VEEK) is indicated as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for chronic weight management in adult patients with an initial body mass index (BMI) of:

30 kg/m2 or greater (obese), or
27 kg/m2 or greater (overweight) in the presence of at least one weight-related comorbid condition (e.g., hypertension, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes).

A big Ooooooops

I forgot to post yesterday.  Yesterday was a very busy day at work and then I went to dinner with a friend.  I TOTALLY forgot about you guys - ooooops sorry.

Anyway, yesterday I sort of cheated, but Belviq would not let me cheat much.  For Dinner, I ordered a salad with steak and my friend ordered a 1/2 order of a blooming onion as an appetizer.  Now, if you don't know Outback Steakhouse and what a Blooming onion is, it's an onion creatively sliced (but not separated) and coated in a batter and deep fried.  You tear off pieces and dip in a sauce.  We ordered the smaller size - which is called pedals, and it is all separated because it's not a full onion.  That was my cheat.  HA!  But with Belviq, I wasn't able to eat much at all.  So, I got to taste a little "fun" fried food but not gorge myself.

As fun as that was, it was WAY to rich for me.  I had a very ugly tummy all night!!  My tummy said, "Hey, that's a no go".  So, I probably won't do that again.  I like that though because it is reminding me that I want good foods. 

This goes to say that Belviq is not for those who do not intend to have a complete lifestyle change in the way they eat.  For some, that little amount probably wouldn't have hurt, but because I have been so committed and not cheated even once since starting, my body is completely against all of that "ugly" food.  Yes, it went from fun food to ugly food really fast HA!

Tomorrow night is our company's happy hour.  I do not intend on drinking at all.  I am sure that if my tummy can't handle a little fried food, that it will balk at the fact of having alcohol ha!  I don't plan on staying long at all!!!

Anyway, Happy Thursday!

xoxox
Ellie

follow me on twitter @ewenker

was a little worried

I learned over a few days that there is a difference to feeling hungry and your tummy growling.  Every now and then, I "thought" I was feeling hungry.  I was a little worried at first like "Am I already building tolerance to Belviq?"  What I very fastly discovered was that my tummy was growling and when I would eat, I still couldn't eat much at a sitting.  So, that told me 2 things:  1, the Belviq is still very much working effectively as it should and 2, that my tummy is still adjusting to the much smaller amounts of food vs. almost quadruple the amount at a serving.  So, your tummy growls because its just not used to the little amount.

This is only occasional but what I find helpful is eating fruit or vegetables for a small snack and my tummy is happy and so am I. 

So for those just starting on Belviq, don't get alarmed if this is happening to you.  It's a good thing.  You not only have to train your mind to eat better, but you have to train your tummy to the new way of food digestion.  It took us years to get to where we are today, so be patient with yourself.

I'm still losing and still excited.  I'm not posting an official weigh in until August 2nd which is 2 weeks after my 4 week weigh in.  Because I use my doctors scale and we video it, I want to keep the integrity.  It's so easy to say, "Oh, I lost 25 pounds" but with the amount of followers on my blog, I have to have the back up so NO ONE can say, "Oh, she really didn't lose it" or say "she's being paid to blog".

I'm also enjoying my subscription to emails, meal planning, tips, etc. from KickStarter60.  If you haven't tried it, you should.  Even if you don't have much to lose or lose any at all, it is really a great tool to help you keep in line nutritionally.  www.kickstarter60.com

I hope you all have a wonderful day!

xoxox
Ellie

A few Belviq patients....

Hello Everyone, I decided to today a vacation day from work. I have a few things I had to take care of and I couldn't get them done on a weekend and my calendar was really pretty light, I figured this was the perfect day to do it. Now I am just chilling. 

I wanted to introduce you to a few Belviq patients that has friended me on Facebook.  For now, I will only share their first name until I get formal permission to use other data.  I want you to follow them through me as I will hopefully keep posting about their progresses as well.

Meet Amy,
Amy is from Illinois and she just finished her 15 day trial yesterday.  She reports that she has lost 11 pounds during the trial and seems to be pretty pumped up!!  That is so great and seems to be in alignment with my weight loss during my trial period around about 2 pounds.  She just picked up here 30 day script and, with the coupon, had to pay $155 because her insurance is not covering yet.  She isn't letting that be an obstacle, but she has expressed that she would like her physician write in to see about getting an exception aka an appeal. 

Meet Cecelia
Cecelia is from the great state of Colorado.  I LOVE Colorado and I have met so many from that wonderful state.  That just says, she's wonderful right?  She just finished day 4 on Belviq and is diabetic.  On day 4, she reported her daily blood sugar result was a 97, which she has not seen that low since she became diabetic.  I think that is really really awesome.  She seems to be really excited.

These are just two of the many people I have friended online taking Belviq.  There will be more to come.  I will do check ins so you can read about their progress as well!!!!

That's it for today - it's a vacation day for me so I am going to do something productive to not waste the day!! 

I would like to end this with a quote from Santos who is on day 12 with Belviq:  "Remember, the fork is not a shovel" LOL  I LOVE IT

xoxox
Ellie

Short and Sweet

Hi everyone - today was a bum kind of Saturday. I hung out with my best friend and went looking around for ideas to decorate, etc. I'm wanting to do something for my dinning table I won in February - it needs color but right money is obviously tight but hopefully before Christmas I can budget some fun stuff. It was a great day. I kind of cheated (SHHHH) and ate Mexican food BUT, I did eat a Taco salad minus the shell and ate about 4 bites. That was how I cheated - all that cheese and dab of sour cream. Shame on me! ha - actually, I just ate literally about 4 or 5 bites and I was like blah...... (I had some salsa and chips too ha). Anyway, My blog has over 16,000 views. I am so happy I have so many interested in my progress. I did make it to the grocery store to get a few things for meals. Tomorrow, I am going to make a homemade rub for some chicken breast and I am going to bake it wrapped up in tin foil so all of the juices can just stay within. Mmmmm. I went to the farmers market so I have fresh home grown green beans to make. I also am cooking asparagus, but not for this meal, I want to have it for a salad on Monday. I plan on dicing up the chicken that is left over for a really good salad with Asparagus and a homemade vinaigrette dressing. I also got some fresh peaches, grapes, and apples. I LOVE FRUITS AND VEGGIES!!!!!!!!! Why am I so fat??? Oh yeah, I LOVE SWEETS haha. But I don't eat them anymore. I have zero desire for cake or anything like that. Thanks BELVIQ!!!!!!! Tomorrow is my day off from blogging. I hope you have are having a fantastic weekend!!! xoxox Ellie

RESULTS ARE IN! 1 month weigh in!

Here it is, the 1 month (4 complete weeks) weigh in on Belviq.  Go back to the 1 week weigh in blog post, can't you see a difference??

Anyway, here it is - drum roll please.................




A little disappointed.  I was hoping for a full 20.  BUT (LOL) Belviq makes me a hair constipated (OMG Did I just say that???) and so, well, let's just say, I think maybe it might have been 20 hahaha!!!  TMI!!!

Anyway - the still image - OMG horrible but I was leaning back.  Geeze, I look like a gorilla!!!

Anyway, shout out to Tammy at Dr. Mann's office who always does the video for me!!  SHE ROCKS!!  And of course to Karen.  Love both of you bunches!!!!

BCBS-TX, and the fight begins.....

So, My broker put me in contact with an employee in the small group department at BCBS because I want to file an appeal.  She's is saying basically that all fully insured contracts with BCBS has this limitation and exclusion and that it will basically be denied (my appeal). 

We went back and forth for a bit. She had already told me this last week, but my purpose in the email was to find out how to file an appeal. So here we go again.  I basically said:

"I want to appeal even if it is denied because I want to bring awareness.　 I fought Aetna in 1998 when they didn’t want to cover a reconstructive surgery because it was excluded.　 I won.　 I’m not saying I will win this one, but I will shake some shoes just so they can review for future years – especially with Obesity being classified as a disease.　 Since that became official, then insurance really does not have the right to exclude it – just like any other disease.　 So, I want to try to make a difference."

 

I am not sure if she realized that when I get determination, I can rest until someone wins.  I may not win, but I will never know if I do not try right?

 

So my question is to some of you who have been studying the recent obesity news where the AMA officially classified obesity as a disease:  How will this affect health Insurance?  If Alcoholism is a disease and just about every carrier out there covers it, should obesity be covered?  AND, what about with Obama care?  How will that impact it.  I want to talk smart in my appeals letter so ANYONE who can provide helpful tips please post or email me at ellie.wenker@gmail.com

 

Thanks so much!!

Here we go, are you ready for a rodeo?????

xoxox

Ellie

 

 

The day before and the 30 day script

Well, tomorrow is the day!!!  The day I will do my official 1 month weigh in!  I am so excited and nervous at the same time.  So in true Ellie style, it will be recorded!!!!! I am so excited!!!!

What I want to do is have a little fun.  Please comment below and let me know what you think the TOTAL weight loss is.  (Remember, at 2.5 I was at 13 pounds).  Some aren't able to post for some weird reason, If you can't, go to my face book page https://www.facebook.com/BelviqDailyPersonal to reply to my recent post!!

Tuesday I officially started with kickstarter60.  www.kickstarter60.com  It's a virtual dietician that gives you menus, and get this - prepares your shopping list.  I already have the first weeks menus.  I plan to go through it Saturday and go grocery shopping.  I'll have to make minor tweaks because I do not like fish and I HATE oatmeal with a  passion.  The smell gags me.  The menus are loaded with a ton of other things.  It's just a foundation to help me get in the right mind set in terms of good nutrients.  Go check out the site.  It's beyond affordable.  It's about a buck a day for 60 days.  They have a free trial.  I am blessed to have family who stepped up and helped me get the program!!!!

I will get my full 30 day refill of Belviq on Friday.  For the first time I can get then entire 30 days vs. a week at a time.  I have the $75 dollar off coupon (WHICH HELPS) and I got enough in donations to help with the difference but about $10 bucks.  It's awesome and I THANK EVERYONE who helped contribute and support me and my goals to a healthier lifestyle.

I am in process of filing an appeal with BCBS-TX for coverage of Belviq.  The Eisai website gave instructions on how to do it.  HOPEFULLY I will be able to get the exception and get it approved!!!  I am a loud person (you all probably noticed already I am vocal) and I will not stop.  Not just for me, but for everyone else who can find hope in Belviq!!!

Tune in tomorrow for another great weigh in episode!!!! 

xoxox
Ellie

Look at me now!! 4 week photo

Just a quick post - I have this FABULOUS belt I bought about 2 years ago.  It never fit me - not even close.  Today, just for grins, I put the belt on just to see how much further I was to be able to wear it.  To my surprise, although barely, it fit and I am wearing it!!!  I AM SO EXCITED!!!!!!!

Also, you can see it really much more in my face!!  TOTALLY excited again ha!

Non Belviq related struggle today

What happens when you eat realy really fast on a tummy that's used to getting very little at a time?  Let me put it this way without being too graphic.  Remember when I said that I feel like those that had the lap band surgery where I feel full really fast.  They are not really able to eat fast either and they have to avoid certain foods to prevent them from being sick.  One of my co-workers can not eat lettuce who had the band done a year ago.  Too much lettuce makes her ill.

I typically don't eat a lot of lettuce either - I like a salad with all of the fresh vegetables minus the lettuce, although I will eat it occassionally.  Today we had a new employee start.  One of the fun things about my job is getting to take new employees to lunch.  Where I work, there's not a lot of choices in restaruants and we had two others join us, so we needed to go somewhere quick.  We chose.....Olive Garden.  Wait, don't start bashing at me yet about eating there.  I chose to eat the salad only.  No bread, no pasta, nothing than the salad.  But we were in a hurry and we had to kind of eat fast.  Needless to say, just like a person with the lap band, it didn't settle - AT ALL. 

I'm letting the tummy settle down a bit and then I will try some grapes maybe.  Oy!  I told you guys I feel like I had that surgery without the pain and money involved.

On a brighter note, FRIDAY will mark 4 weeks since I started Belviq.  Be on the lookout for my video of my 1 month weigh in!!  Also, tomorrow night I meet up with my friend Pam, who took that picture that helped change my life.  We are doing a re-do in the exact same spot!!!!!!  I can't wait - so look for that one either tomorrow or Thursday.

On a side note - I need a personal trainer.  The cost of Belviq is preventing me from obtaining one.  If you are in the Houston area or if you know anyone in the Houston area who would be willing to help a girl out with personal training in exchange with free advertisement on my blog by either posting or letting me post about our journey with pictures and the contact information, please send me an email to ellie.wenker@gmail.com  I DESPERATELY need help with this new challenge!!

xoxoxox
Ellie

Beginning my 4th week - still no side effects

So on Friday marks the completion of 4 weeks on Belviq.  In true "Ellie Wenker" style, I will be doing my weigh in and recording it of course.  I am excited about this weigh in!  So be on the look out for it.

I got a little frustrated this weekend and almost deleted my blog with all the drama, but I chose to just get over it and move on.  I have to remind everyone, I am in this for ME.  I want to lose weight for myself.

Someone had offered to collect towards a goal met of 50 pound which would be a reward.  This first 50 pounds will be an absolute milestone.  Someone else suggested that the motivation takes away from Belviq and too much focus on the reward.  That really hurt because it was describing me as money motivated.  I will get to my 50 pound loss regardless.  I felt rob of a victory and that was the sole reason I wanted to delete my blog.  The person offering it was just trying to encourage me.   So, we pulled the reward off the table because I was not about to allow people who do not know me to steal my thunder. 

I saw where someone else said something like "She'll never be the face of Bevliq, get a start like Jenny McCartney to take Belviq".  Well, that person isn't very smart because Jenny M does not meat the criteria.  And 2nd I'm not trying to be the face of Belviq.  I am trying to get my story out there so others can be motivated as well.  If They call and ask, I'd probably say yes just to get my story out there and help other, not for fame".

Enough of that drama!  So far I am doing very well with Belviq.  I still have no side effects.  I've gotten the nutrition routine down and other than tat one day with muscle cramps, I am still doing great!!  In fact, all my labs are PERFECT so I just continue to carry on.

Tomorrow I register with a virtual dietician Kickstarter60.  I am really really excited to explore more options.  Check her out at www.kickstarter60.com .

I want to thank everyone that has been encouraging me.  It's really meant a lot, especially with all that negative talk about my journey out there.  I took a risk and knew that would happen, I just expected more slams on my weigh vs. on the financial side. 

Thanks everyone!
xoxoxox

Financial Options for Belviq

There are resources for EVERYONE to afford Belviq so don't let it not being covered on your insurance or having no insurance to hold you back!!  I am so excited about this information!

This was a great website resource that one of the Eisai pharmaceutical reps shared with me (Eisai is the company promoting Belviq for Arena Pharm).  The website it:  www.eisaireimbursement.com

If your plan does not cover Belviq yet (I say yet because more and more are starting to cover), here are some options to try to get approved for individual coverage:

How to Request a Non-Formulary Coverage Determination
Health plans may grant various types of exceptions to members. Members may receive coverage for BELVIQ^® even if it is not on the formulary, health plans may waive coverage restrictions or limits and make an exception to cover the drug.
When requesting an exception, a statement from their prescriber must be submitted via fax or mail. The statement must explain the medical reasons for requesting an exception. Once a request is submitted, a decision is generally made within 72 hours of receiving the prescriber's supporting statement. Members can request an expedited (fast) exception if the prescriber believes that a patient's health could be seriously harmed by waiting up to 72 hours for a decision.

• If the request is expedited and granted, the health plan usually gives a decision no later than 24 hours after receiving prescriber's supporting statement.
• If the decision is not in member's favor, the health plan will send a written statement with explanation and how to appeal the decision
• To download a general form that may be used to request coverage for BELVIQ^® for a patient for a product that is not on formulary, please click here. Please note that some payors may not accept requests for coverage that are submitted on forms that have not been approved by their specific plan.
• If you need additional assistance obtaining a payor's specific requirements for requesting coverage for BELVIQ^®, please call the Eisai Assistance Program at 1-866-61-EISAI or click here to obtain a Statement of Medical Necessity form. Once completed, please fax it to the Eisai Assistance Program. A representative will initiate research into the specific requirements of your patient's insurance to obtain coverage.

Appeal Request

An appeal is a request to change a previous adverse decision made by health plan. A representative/prescriber or patient may appeal the adverse decision related to coverage. The prescriber will need to provide a reason why he/she believes the adverse coverage decision was incorrect and what the expected outcome should be. Along with the request form, supporting documentation may include previous medical necessity-related denials, the patient's medical records, and documentation from the healthcare professional or facility.

Payor Reimbursement

Commercial payor pharmacy reimbursement for BELVIQ^® is variable and dependent on the pharmacy's contract with the payor. Most commercial payors base payment on Average Wholesale Price (AWP) or Wholesale Acquisition Cost (WAC). Payments may or may not include a dispensing fee per fill.
For more information on commercial payor-specific coverage of BELVIQ^® patients should contact the member services department at their health plan.

Patient Assistance Program

What is the Eisai Patient Assistance Program?

Eisai has created the Eisai Patient Assistance Program (EPAP) for customers who need assistance paying for BELVIQ^®. The Eisai PAP provides Eisai medicines at no or low cost to financially needy patients who meet program eligibility criteria.

About the Program

Depending on your financial situation and clinical status, resources may be available to help with your costs for BELVIQ^®. Patients, family members, advocates or case managers can call The Eisai Primary Care Assistance Program at 1-866-61-EISAI (1-866-61-34724) to apply to determine if you are eligible for the EPAP for BELVIQ^®. The hours of operation are 8 AM to 8 PM ET, Monday through Friday.
Eisai reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to discontinue the Patient Assistance Program or change the qualifications at any time. All patient information remains confidential. Product supply for the program depends upon availability.

Information Needed For the Application

The Statement of Medical Necessity, insurance information, financial documentation, the signature of the prescribing healthcare professional, and the patient's signature are required for the form to be considered complete. To download a copy of the BELVIQ^® Statement of Medical Necessity Form, please click here. Fax the completed Statement of Medical Necessity to the Eisai Patient Assistance Program at 1-866-57-EISAI (1-866-57-34724).

Contact Us

The Eisai Assistance Program
Phone: 1-866-61-EISAI
Fax: 1-866-57-EISAI
Available Monday - Friday
8 AM to 8 PM ET

Tomato Vegetable Soup - only 100 calories per serving!

Ingredients:
2 cans of diced tomatoes (I used Hunts that said "Diced Tomatoes in Sauce"
1 small box of Tomato bisque starter Soup. (found in the broth isle
...
2 cans of chicken broth (or use alternative for vegan/vegetarians
1 chopped onion (I used white onions)
2 bags of your favorite froze vegetables (I used a stir fry mix with green beans, sugar snap peas, water chestnuts, yellow squash, and broccoli
1 tsb Extra virgin olive oil

I cooked the chopped onions a little bit in the EVOO and added basil, pepper, salt, and garlic seasoning for taste. I add the diced tomatoes and the tomato bisque starter and let those all cook on medium high heat to a boil. I turn up on high and add the chicken broth and the vegetable and cook to a good boil and quickly reduce to heat to simmer (or low) and cover and just let it cook for about an hour just to let all of the flavors blend into the vegetables. This entire LARGE pot made was about 1000 calories for the entire thing. So, split it up to individual servings, it could be anywhere from 100 to 200 calories!!

Add Chicken or Beans for protein if desired.  I think this would be a PERFECT starter to ANY dish!!

 

Did I mention, Belviq ROCKS!!!

Happy Saturday Peeps!!!

I would love for a lazy day, but I just have way too much to do.  My dad will include menu planning for the week, grocery shopping, cooking a few meals, and CLEANING my dirty apartment.  I've ignored it all week.  I also will get in some pool time first and maybe some treadmill time.  BORING!!

So, last night my friend Ashley invited me to an impromptu dinner.  We met at a Mexican restaurant - I know, not the best choice right?  Well, I think it worked out very well for me.  They had a grilled fajita chicken salad.  I was thinking it was a taco salad with a shell and all.  I was really surprised that it did not come with a shell.  It had kind of on the side the cheese, sour cream and guacamole.  I am not a fan of guacamole, so I gave it to Ash.  I mixed the chicken up with the salad mixings and added a pinch of cheese and not even a half of spoon of sour cream.  I honestly didn't even think about it, but I just did it in the health way.   Of course I didn't eat all of it - about half maybe.  It was so good.   (Now, I did have chips and salsa - salsa is something I actually crave - I crave tomatoes ha). 

Belviq Rocks!  That's it in a Taco Shell!!!

Remember to like my facebook page: 

https://www.facebook.com/BelviqDailyPersonal

And follow me on twitter: @ewenker

Also - go listen to the (2 hour) radio interview that's on the top right of the page.  If you want, you can down load it to listen to it in pieces, etc. 

Thanks everyone for ALL OF the kind Support!!!  You all are amazing - really really AMAZING!

xoxo-Ellie

PS - Sunday is my day off from blogging!!!! 

Happy Friday!!!

Hi everyone!

It's Friday - what can be better than that?  I am looking forward to the weekend.  I plan on doing some menu planning and a little cooking for the week.  I am also going to get some swimming in!!!!  I love to swim and I want to get more work done on my tired limbs that support this big body of mine!!  So, water will accomplish that. 

My bestie Ashley and I are talking about doing a trip next May to Cancun or somewhere like that. I have never been anywhere like that ever.  I hardly get out of Houston, let alone Texas.  I kind of got excited thinking how GREAT I will look next May.  Hopefully my tax refund will be enough to cover it!!!!  YAY so excited!!!

Ok, so last night on the radio talk show was unreal.  I am truly humbled, overwhelmed (in a good way) and inspired to push through.  This was really the magic I needed to keep motivated, to keep pushing through.  Thanks Spencer and Demian for being such kind hosts.  It was a lot of fun.  My friends all listened in.  Today, when I got to work, one of my co-workers said the moment I walked in the door, "Can I just give you a hug?"  Caught off guard for sure, but it was so sweet.  She said that I truly was inspiring to her and she also wanted to just lose 10 pounds that would make her feel so much better.

I posted the archive at the top right for everyone to listen too.  It is two hours long.  You can go on the website and download it at:  http://www.blogtalkradio.com/playgroundradio/2013/07/12/arena-pharmaceuticals-belviq-the-ellie-wenker-story

I want to thank Pam Skaar and Karen Mann for texting me and encouraging me through out the show and for Karen calling in.  It made me tear up!!  I love both of those women and their husbands for believing in me and encouraging me. 

So, what's on the menu today?  I am craving fresh veggies.  So for lunch I will have assorted fresh raw veggies.  Sounds boring, but I just can't get enough.  I am also going to have a chicken breast plain for a hair of protein.  Haven't decided dinner yet.  We'll see what I'll cook up, maybe post a picture!!!!

Follow me on twitter @ewenker and on my facebook fan page Belviq Daily Personal.  Thanks so much for believing in me.  I LOVE YOU ALL!!!!!

xoxox
Ellie

UPDATE!!! Exciting times......

UPDATE:  Here is the info to hear it live...

Here is the direct link to tonight's radio show for listeners to hear the show live online...

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/playgroundradio/2013/07/12/arena-pharmaceuticals-belviq-the-ellie-wenker-story

Here is the link to the Playground Radio home page, where all of the radio shows are listed...

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/playgroundradio

The call-in number for you to call in to the show and for listeners to call in is (347) 934-0239.

ORIGINAL POST:
I just realized that I forgot to post yesterday to the blog.  Oooops - sorry.  I've been pretty busy at work and then an impromptu dinner with a friend last night.  It was tempting to order something really sinful off of the menu!!!  Everything looked so darn yummy!  But, I settled for a veggie plate - it comes with a side dinner salad, and 4 veggie sides.  I am GLAD I picked that, it was soooooo good.  I was not able to eat it all, so I got a to go box and I will have it today for lunch. 

I need to get back into my workout routine.  I haven't done the treadmill since Sunday and I feel it for sure.  So tonight - it is on!!!

Also tonight I will be on a Blog Talk Radio segment through Play Ground Radio.  It is hosted by Demian Russian and Spencer Osborne.  I will get more information on how you can listen live with the opportunity to call in and ask questions.  I am pretty excited.   I will post a new posting this afternoon with that information.

Please join in and listen if you can.  It will be at 7:00 pm CST / 8:00 EST - more info will be posted shortly!

Happy Thursday!!!

2 week weigh in

I just got back from my 2 week weigh in.  

 A few things to note to my disadvantage:

1.  My dr. thinks I am retaining water so I am starting a diuretic (I agree that I am!)
2.  My first weigh in was at 7:30am.  I weighed in at lunch time and it's documented that my weight fluctuates (a little more) as the day progresses.
3.  Although not a "disadvantage", I am working out every day and building muscle now.  So, even though I lose weight in fat, I may gain some of that back in muscle.  That is ok with me.

I tell myself to not get hung up on the numbers.  What matter is that my clothes are fitting SO MUCH BETTER!!!

Ok, so are you ready for the numbers?  Have I set you up for a let down........lets see!



YAY!!!!!!!  I am so happy with those numbers considering the disadvantages I had.  I was shooting for 12 and I beat it by 1!  Hyped!!!

I think this makes me an official responder???  I hope!  2 weeks in and 13 pounds down!  Totally excited!

Be sure to follow me on facebook at:  https://www.facebook.com/BelviqDailyPersonal?fref=ts
Every 100 likes will earn one person to tell me what to do on a workout!!!  I'm at 165!  I need more.  I want to get the news out about Belviq!!!

The Weigh in..........

UPDATE - I WILL GET TO WEIGH IN SHORTLY!!!!  They are heading back to the office - Don't mind the below - YAY!!!!!!!!!



Did not happen today - BOOOOOOO  Karen texted me that they had a minor emergency (something like some cows got out at their ranch) and asked if I can do it tomorrow.  Bad, bad cows! HA!

So, tomorrow - it is.  Sigh, I was ALL psyched up and got all of my friends psyched up.  I promise, one way or another, it WILL happen tomorrow.  So keep posted.

Meanwhile - Thanks to those have donated.  I'm very blessed.  Hopefully I'll have enough to get my Belviq in 1 week and I'll share the excess with another Belviq user online who has already taken the 14 day trial and is currently on it as well.  I want to make sure that users are legit and that they are dedicated!

Feel free to donate!  Happy Tuesday.  Tomorrow will be the big day!!!!

Obesity - a disease or not a disease, that's the question

On June 18, 2013, the American Medical Association (AMA) officially classified obesity as a disease.  This news, of course, doesn't come without controversy as many do not view obesity as a disease, but more or less poor judgement in eating habits, etc.

Having been overweight my entire life, I have to agree that poor eating habits played into my obesity; however, uncontrollable medical circumstances is probably the major contributing factor in how it all spun out of control.

So, my biggest question is, what is the difference between alcoholism and obesity?  In 1991, the AMA classified alcoholism as a disease and most major insurance has some level of coverage where, depending on the carrier, obesity has none.  In 2011, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, approximately 10,228 fatalities were alcohol related.  According to the National Institute of Health, more than 300,000 people die as a result to complications from obesity.

Here are the top 10 obesity related health problems:
1.  High Blood Pressure
2.  Diabetes
3.  Heart Disease
4.  High Cholesterol
5.  Cancer
6.  Infertility
7.  Back Pain
8.  Skin Infections
9.  Ulcers
10.  Gallstones

I can tell you from my own personal health, I have/had 4 of these and I am borderline for another 3!!  If you think about the cost to treat each individual condition, not to mention 4, to me, it makes better sense to treat the underlying issue - obesity.  If I take Belviq for 12 months, I figured the estimated cost (without insurance) would be about $2700.  That cost is so much cheaper than even covering co-pays to the doctor, lap, and RX for high cholesterol for my entire life.  It just makes sense.

The debate will always continue on if Obesity is a disease or not.  But Obesity can LEAD to disease and that's never been debated.

I am going to do some reading and studying on this issue and figure out how to lobby for insurance to be mandated to cover the treatment of obesity.  Maybe Obama care has it in there somewhere.

Let me know your thoughts on this issue........

NOTE:  I've added a DONATION button on my blog.  This is to help me pay for my belviq monthly since it is not covered by my insurance.  Anything in excess is going to be donated to people who also can not afford it for the same reason or because they do not have insurance at all.  I have been contacted by many wanting to know more information on if it is covered.  If you know what insurance carriers are for sure covering it (or even not covering it) please let me know.  Right now, BCBS-TX is NOT covering it.


 

I have to tell.........

Today, I fit into a dress a bought over 2 years ago and I haven't been able to wear it at all - it was too tight and now fits PERFECT.  I am so excited!!  I can see a difference - JUST TWO WEEKS!!!  crazy!

My body is having a hard time adjusting to the new eating habits.  Not from a hunger standpoint, but a nutritional standpoint.  I think my potassium got a little low today because I was having charlie horses like mad.  I bought a supplement today and some bananas.  My mom always swore by drinking pickle juice, so I have some of that.  I've been feeling very fatigued and extremely nauseated.  So, I am trying to get some nutrients in so I can bounce right back.  Remember, I ate more than 3000 calories a day and I went down to  less than a third of that.  I can't wait until the 15th when I can afford to get my virtual nutritionist.  It will help in this area tremendously.  

If you have any suggestions you would like to share, please do so.  I am open for opinions.

This blog will be short and sweet because I had a very busy day and somewhat exhausted.  I ate fruit and some yummy pasta with chicken (frozen dinner - lean cuisine) oh, and eggs this morning.  I'm full and I can't even think of eating.  I will try to get some fruit in again in a bit.

Remember, Sunday is my day off from Blogging so no new updates until Monday.  I hope to go by and weigh in Monday - or Tuesday for sure!!!  So, be on the look out.......

FB challenge ...... I DID IT!

So, as mentioned, ever 100 likes on my facebook page then I will randomly draw one name and they can choose a 20 minute workout for me to try.  Unfortunately, I took video in pieces with my cell phone and my photo shop is not recognizing the file - grrrrrrrrrr  I'll keep trying to put it together to post.

Anyway, Theresa Gibbs Schrock's challenge was for me to do the treadmill at 3.0 speed and an incline at 2.00.  Now, my normal is about 2.5 and 0 incline.  I have to say, it was tough.  I know many will say, "ah, that's easy!"  But, it wasn't easy for me.  You have to remember I am someone who is extremely overweight with little to no fitness activity.  So, it was brutal.  I got down to the last 5 minutes and I did not think I was going to make it.  I almost quit.  Being competitive, I couldn't fail my first challenge.  My back started cramping, but I pushed through.  I'll never be so glad to see the last 10 seconds come and go!

Today, I made a trip to the store (BORING) right after the workout.  My body was tired ha!  After that, one of my besties called and invited me over to layout and grill and watch a movie.  I ate 2 chicken legs (shhhh - the most I've eaten in a while) but it was sooo good.  I also had a vinaigrette coleslaw salad.  So, considering my calorie intake already for the day (very little), I figured I could afford an extra chicken leg!  :) 

I as excited because I put on a maxi dress that was really tight through the tummy last year and this year it fit nice.  One of my long time friends I grew up with, Terah Cobb Aultman, actually gave me her own little challenge, she bought this cute white sequined Michael Kohrs dress before she lost all her weight, which is still MANY sizes smaller than where I am now ha!  It has never been worn, still has the tags on.  She posted a picture on my facebook and said basically if I can get in it at some point, it's mine.  OH YEAH BABY!  I love me some MK!

Over all a good day.  I accomplished my challenge and ended the day with the bestie.  I am now home, getting ready for another full day tomorrow.

I will try to get this video posted.  Next time, I will use my video camera vs. the cell phone!! 

THANKS THERESA for participating.

Now everyone - Get me to 200 likes and another one of you will get to pick!!!!!

https://www.facebook.com/BelviqDailyPersonal?fref=ts

4th of july tease...

Happy Independence Day everyone!!!

So, today I put on a top that was really tight around the arms before.  It was a hair snug, but WEARABLE!  It was not near as tight.  SOOO excited.

I then, just out of curiosity, stepped on the scale at home.  Now, I think my scale is off (OVER) a hair form the scales at the doctors.  I won't tell you what my home scaled said, but let's just say, I think I am going to officially be labeled as a "responder".  What is a responder?  You have to lose around 12 to 15 pound in 12 weeks.  Remember, week 1 was 8 pounds.  I am 2 weeks in tomorrow and it looks promising....VERY VERY promising!  Holy Cheetos!  Wait, I need to come up with a healthy saying and can the Cheetos!  HOLY CELERY STICKS!!!!

I have chosen to weigh in at my doctors office every 2 weeks.  Friday it won't happen because Karen won't be there and I am on VACA!  So, I will see about getting in Monday/Tuesday to do my weigh in.  Originally it was going to be Friday, but I can't wait.  I will then compare it to the scale I have at home so I can do it here!!!!!!!!

ARE YOU READY?????????? I AM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Who is Ellie? My story....

I will attempt to keep this from being a novel.  I have realized that many of my wonderful followers do not know who Ellie is.  So, I thought I'd give a little background of who I am and how I came to being so obese. 

I was born in St. Paul Minnesota but when to elementary school in Houston Texas.  I had a lot of friend and I was quite the active little kid.  I loved to roller skate, bike ride, and swim.  I was always playing with my friend.  I was very happy and I was pretty thin or average in weight.  My 7th grade year, my parents moved to a small town called Livingston Texas - about an hour and a half north of Houston.  It was a beautiful lake community.  And loving water, I was SOLD the moment we learned my parents were buying land. 

I've always been social, so meeting new friends was exciting for me.  My first day of school, I would say is when my life changed in more ways than one.  Livingston is a very small and tight community.  It is really hard for a newbie to enter in to acceptance.  Some would disagree with me, but most of that population are, your long timers.  Day one started with bullying, name calling, etc.  I was crushed.  I never wanted to go back to school again, but I had to.  So, I started eating and started gaining weight. 

The bullying didn't stop with students, a few educators were involved as well.  My ninth grade year, I took Spanish.  The teach seated us in grade order.  You made an A on a test, you sat in the back.  I never applied myself really.  I was smart but I didn't care.  One particular time, I made an A on a test.  SHOCKER!  I moved to the back.  But, I also had dyslexia and reading from that far was a challenge.  I raised my hand and asked to be moved to the front because I could not see.  She erased the word on the blackboard and wrote it the entire width and length of the board and said, "Can you see it now?"  I was embarrassed, humiliated, and angry.  I through my pencil and walked out.  I knew I was going to be in BIG trouble so I walked down to the principals office in tears.  I can't remember what he said to this day, but all I remember is, I never got into any trouble and, even though I failed one semester, I received FULL credit for that call.

Fast forward about 10 years, I began my career in HR – at that time I was a clerk for a payroll company.  I started having a lot of menstrual issues.  I learned I had polycystic ovarian disease – caused by, what else, obesity!  I had several surgeries including the loss of an ovary.  When I was 30, I had a complete hysterectomy due to other ongoing issues.  During the time of treatments, I was place on hormones, etc. which aided in the rapid weight gain.

Fast forward another 14 years and here I am.  I am now a successful HR professional working as an HR Manager for an IT outsourcing company.  I have gotten to a point in my weight were at my heaviest, just a few short weeks ago, I was really close to 300 pounds.

I love life and I love helping people.  But I must help myself before I can even be really effective in other peoples lives.  Belviq is going to do that for me!  I can’t wait to see where I am in 3, 6, and 12 months from now!!

So, what would you like to know about me?  Feel free to post questions and comments.  Love to you all!

Post 1.5 week Belviq Before/After photo

I wasn't going to do this yet but I got WAY too excited!!!  So, I came in to work today wearing a top I've always worn.  This time, I had a ton of compliments.  I even noticed this morning what a difference I already looked.  So, here it is, the before and after - just 1.5 weeks in!  I am telling you - THIS STUFF WORKS.  This stuff as in Belviq ha!

two more on Belviq with same results....

So excited, tomorrow (Wednesday) is my Friday.  I am off for 4 days for the holiday weekend.  I don't have a lot planned, well, actually, I kind of do....

I am going to sit down and make a menu for the next week or so and plan some good meals, etc.  I am also planning some pool time and walking time on the treadmill. 

On Sunday, I have some friends that might be coming over to grill by the pool.  That's going to be a challenge in terms of eating so I think I am going to make some yummy fruit/salad/veggie things maybe and tell them they can bring junk if they want it!!

I came across two more people that just started taking Belviq this week.  One at my doctors office - she said she noticed an immediate effect.  The only problem is that she was having some headaches - which is a side effect.  The other one was in the Belviq support group on facebook.  She started it yesterday and noticed the change in appetite immediately.

I'm telling you - this stuff works if you can get past the side effect.  I didn't have many myself so it was great for me. 

I have to say again though, Belviq is not a quick fix weight loss plan.  If you have no intentions on changing your eating habits, don't waste your time.  You really have to commit to a change.  That's what I am doing!!!

I didn't have anything exciting to eat today.  Just some left overs from Sunday. 

I want to thank everyone for your support.  Whether your support is because you know me and want this for me as bad as I do, or your support is because you are watching Belviq on the financial side, it doesn't matter to me.  I take whatever support I can get because I need it.  So, if the incentive for you is financial, you can push me just as those who are in it for me! 

Thanks again!!!!! 

Sunday was my "off" day

I everyone,  Sunday was my day off from blogging.  Instead, I spent the day creating my facebook fan page Belviq Daily Personal.  This page is about me taking Belviq Daily and my person quest to lose weight by eating right.  I will post pictures of things I ate during the day.  Please stop by and like my page.  Every 100 likes the page gets, I will pick a random name of someone to give me an workout idea to try in the gym.  I will video my attempt and whether I passed or failed at it.  So, please go like and you could be the one to inflict pain! ha!

https://www.facebook.com/#!/BelviqDailyPersonal?fref=ts

I never realized what I was getting in to with my blog.  It all came about on Twitter.  Follow me @ewenker and you can go back and read for yourself.  Overwhelming and exciting at the same time.  MAYBE, just maybe I can get a sponsor to help cover the cost of Belviq.  It's really expensive and my insurance does not cover it.  Fingers crossed..........ANY TAKERS?????

Today, my mom would be 71 years old.  She passed away 3 years ago from bladder cancer.  It was then when I began my way to the biggest I have ever been.  I do alot of emotional eating.  Today, normally, would be no different.  The difference with today is, I couldn't force myself to eat with Belviq so it is preventing me from going on a binge.  I am very thankful!!

I want to thank everyone for following my progress.  I am determined, more than ever, to make this work!!!  I now have way too many eyes on me, and I would be embarrassed to fail!!!!!  So, keep them coming ya'll!!!!!!!!

More later.........