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

I started research about 6 years ago, and it scared the crap out of me.

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 by my insurance, and then had to go thru an appeal hearing. Then the insurance reversed it and gave me my approval.

What was your first visit with your surgeon like? How can people get the most out of this meeting?

He was very pleasant. Very personable, and caring, and wants to make sure you are ready. Ask questions and listen.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I was tired of being in a 2 year plateau, an my joints were giving out.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

It was no contest, wanted RNY.

What fears did you have about having complications or even dying from from the surgery, and what would you tell other people having the same fears now?

Just do it. I was scared to death I would not wake up. It was not as bad as I thought it would be at all.

How did your family and friends react to your decision? Would you have communicated anything differently if you could now? How supportive were they after your surgery?

They were totally against it at first, until they realized how bad I was struggling and decided to support me.

How did your employer/supervisor react to your decision? What did you tell him/her? How long were you out of work?

n/a

What was it like attending your first information seminar on weight loss surgery? Were you glad you attended? if so, why?

It was nerve wracking and I am so glad I wnet.

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

My stay was wonderful. Great nurses and staff. I was there 2 days.

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

It is 2 hours away from home