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

I first heard of it four years ago, when my best friend had it done, and I can remember feeling envious of her that she was lucky enough to be able to have it. Then one year ago, my pcp said that my insurance would cover it for me due to my many health conditions. It took me one year of research and thinking to decide to finally get this done.

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

I was in the hospital for three days, and it was ok. The nurses did their jobs, but only one person that took care of me, had a good bedside manner, the rest you could tell were just there for a job and a paycheck. I do want to say tho, that I felt confident in the staff and the hospital for any situation. A friend told me to take flushable baby wipes and a pair of kitchen tongs for wiping my bottom, I thought she was nuts, but she wasnt..ha ha...best thing i ever did for myself.

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

So far , with god's blessing 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?

The first two weeks were rough, was so tired of a clear liquid diet, and three days before I was allowed pureed foods, I was beginning to feel weak and wobbly and very hungry. The first week and most of the second week, I was in a lot of pain., mostly from my back and hips, which I was already suffering major problems from. I have severe arthritis and fibromyalgia, so any trauma to my body intensifys those issues. The doctor sent me home with adult liqud tylenol and to my surprise , it helped ease the pain. Now going into the third week and eating pureed foods, I feel stronger, altho tiring easinly, and The pain is somewhat gettng better...and now I have no regrets like I did the first week..

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

My biggest support group has been from my friends at the site from obesityhelp.com. Those people there are the best. My next support group are my family and friends. And most importantly my higher power of my faith in God.

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

My scars are laproscopic and no big deal to me at all.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

So far, just the pain..bad days and good days with it....and I am tired so much. AS for the moods, im ok..seem happier actually and less irritable, unless its a bad pain day.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Not really....