How did you first find out about bariatric surgery and what were your initial impressions of it?

One day i went to my regular doctor and she said we need to talk.i said okay.She asked me if i ever heard of bariatic surgery.I said yes but i was always scared to look into it.so she set me up with the seminar they have through oakwood ,so i went and got information on it.I was amazed that they can help people cope and deal with weight .

Describe your experience with getting insurance approval for surgery. What advice, if any, do you have for other people in this stage?

I have carechoices and the first time they denyed me.But i just kept doing everything they wanted.i went in front of the boardmembers and told them how i felt and why i wanted this surgery,showed them pictures of me at 350 .On my way home they already called me and i was approved. I started in march and i had my surgery by october17.

What was your stay in the hospital like? How long where you there? What things are most important to bring?

My stay in the hospital was good,I was there about 3 to 4 days.The most important things to bring are extra underware and clothes good walking slippers and a rob.

Did you have any complications from the surgery? If so, how did you deal with them?

I did not have complications right away,but i over did it when i got home and not resting that i riped something inside my stomache and i was bleeding didnt know it till i got sick with a cold and they checked my blood and it was low so i had to have a blood transfusion and stay in hospital for 4 days.so dont over do it when you get home..I dealt with it pretty good.

In the weeks after you got your surgery date, how did you feel? How did you cope with any anxiety you might have felt?

I did pretty good,I was real sore but after awhile i just kept pushing me self everyday.you do get down and discouraged at times.the anxiety is there sometimes,when i go to a family funtion or holiday people always watch what you eat.thats how i felt...

Describe your first few weeks home from the hospital. What should people expect from this period?

It wasnt bad,my family and friends help me out.my family kinda gave me my space because it is a big change in your life. the first few weeks you will be tired.But i just would walk a little bit.then take a nap..

How far did you travel to have your surgery? (If far, how did this affect your aftercare?)

About 10 minutes

What aftercare support group/program do you have? How helpful/important is this?

They do have support groups and it is important to go at the hospitals.I have not went but i am going start because it is hard.and you dont want to fell like your doing it alone..

What is your scar like? Is this what you expected?

I have 5 little scars that you can barely see.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I am having a plateau i lost at first and now i have been stuck for 3 months...

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes