Judy H.

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Obesity & Me

Describe your behavioral and emotional battle with weight control before learning about bariatric surgery.

I weighed 117 when I graduated high school. As I got older, married and had a family, the weight just kept on sneaking up on me. Next thing I knew, I was weighing 255. I have tried every diet, every diet pill, every excercise machine, etc. My mom had the surgery in 2003. It was a difficult road but one she was glad she chose. After lots of research and visiting with other people, I decided the surgery was right for me.

What was (is) the worst thing about being overweight?

Feeling bad, looking bad, not wanting to go out in public, not being able to find anything to wear

If you have had weight loss surgery already, what things do you most enjoy doing now that you weren't able to do before?

I have more energy. It has just been 6 weeks so I am looking forward to seeing changes as time passes.

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

My mom. She has done great!

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

I was denied my first go round. Didnt give up and finally was approved. My advice, DONT GIVE UP!

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

I was very nervous the day of surgery but everything went great. Dr. Babineau has his own section of the hospital for his bariatric patients. This is really nice for the patients and the nurses. Be sure to bring socks or shoes for walking. You need to get moving as soon as possible.

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

I did become dehydrated and had to be put back in the hospital. I also had a stricture 4 - 5 weeks after surgery. Everything is great now! Just be sure and drink, drink, drink!

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 was very tired and weak. I took several weeks for me to feel good. I talked with my husband and friends daily about how I was feeling. They are one of the reasons this has been a success for me so far.

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

I was sore. I did go back to work 2 weeks after surgery. Do expect to be very tired but I found getting back into my routine really helped me.

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

I have been reading lots of books and constantly on the internet. I hope to begin support group meetings since I am feeling better. Its just a long drive from my home.

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

I have 5 small scars on my tummy. But I already have scars from Csection births and gallbladder surgery.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

N/A at this time.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

People are noticing my weight loss and it feels really good.
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