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

The staff at Santa Rosa Medical Center in Milton, Florida were wonderful. I was an inpatient for 3 days. You will receive alot of support. Bring comfortable clothing to go home with.

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

I was plagued by nausea, which occured with each bowl movement. I only experience nausea now about once a month.

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 in a 12 step recovery program that gave me the tools to cope with the anxiety of having to wait.

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

There are a few available in my local area. It is very important to have something in common with someone else.

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

I was hoping for a laprascopic procedure, but due to adhesions from previous surgeries, Dr. Althar had to do an open procedure.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

My energy level is finally picking up. I am not a motivated person, so with the lack of energy, it has made it difficult to get motivated.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

I receive alot of support from family and close friends. They have always encouraged me.