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

I first learned about it many years ago when you would have to fly out of state to have it done. Then as it got more and more popular my friends were having it done. My first impression of the procedure was not good. I thought it a cop out. Now, i have changed my mind. After years and years of unsuccessful dieting the surgery seems to hold hope for those of us who cannot just lost the weight but to keep it off.

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

I really had nothing to do with getting approval. The doctors office took care of all that. They are familiar with the insurance companies and they knew what each one requests to obtain approval. So I submitted the information and within 2 weeks it was approved.

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

The visit with the surgeon was fine. I went with lots of questions and got lots of answers. I was given a booklet and loads of informational materials at the time of my seminar. You should really read through them and write down everything that you want to know. The doctor is there to help you, and if you feel you are being pushed out of the office than maybe he/she is not the doctor for you.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I have type 2 diabetes and am insulin and other injectables, oral meds, constant dr appointments...it is endless. I heard a radio ad and I decided to call and attend a seminar. After hearing that the DS can cure diabetes 98% I was sold. I want to be better, losing weight is just a benefit that is not my sole purpose for doing this. If you have cancer and needed and operation to save your life you would do it, that is what this is to me. to SAVE MY LIFE!

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I went into the seminar thinking I wanted a gastric bypass and came out thinking I wanted a DS. After consulting with the doctor and him hearing all the things that are wrong with me, my weight, BMI he too thought the DS was my best option for maximum weight loss and better health.

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 believe in GOD and my faith is strong. However, everyone senses fear when you have surgery. Honestly, I could leave my house and get hit by a bus, when God calls you home you are going no matter where you are. That is truly how I feel. As far as complications, I am not signing for that package!! It is ALL in GODS hands as HE guides the surgeons hands!!

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?

Mostly all were encouraging, as I am actually going thru this journey with my sister, her surgery is scheduled for a month after mine. My mother was the one who seems upset by it, but after we explained the benefits that seems to ease her fears.

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

I work for a Church and everyone there has been very supportive!

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

I was full of information that I did not know about. I am certainly glad that I went. It helped me make a very hard decision into a little easier one.