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

My doctor told me about it. My first impression was YIKES that sounds dangerous.

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

I had no problem they called and it was approved in 24 hours.

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

He was informative and answered all my questions

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

my health and energy level was failing

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

the doctor

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?

I did think about dying but had the feeling that I was making the best choice for myself.

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?

I am lucky I have a wonderful supportative family

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

I explained the procedure and she was very supporative

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

I was there for 4 days Definately bring your own pillows and if you are a woman bring feminine pads because most definately you will get your menstral cycle, and a comfortable robe

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

none

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 am a week post op and I have had some pain but day by day it lessens. I have to say it is important to walk and move around as much as you can.

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

20 minutes

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

I go to as support group someone started in my town I attend at least once a month

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

It is bumpy and no i figured it would fade more than it has

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I ahve had a plateau in my first year and lately inmy 13th montha fter surgery

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

They notice me more often and comment on the weight loss