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

I heard little snippets on news shows, etc. Then Carnie Wilson hit the news and that was so encouraging. I began researching it over the Internet

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

My insurance approval was handled through my medical group. I had no problems with it.

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

I was terrified that he would see me as 'not a candidate' for surgery because of all my previous failures.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I was becoming more and more disabled by my weight. The quality of my life was poor to non-exsistant. I felt hopeless. I knew it was my only chance.

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 a week due to complications. I don't remember much about my time in ICU.

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

Yes, I bled internally and my kidneys failed. It was very bad. But once my kidneys began to work again and the blood thinners were stopped, it helped.

In the weeks after you got your surgery date, how did you feel? How did you cope with any anxiety you might have felt?

When I finally got the date, I was peaceful. Having a date helped relieve the anxiety. It was the waiting around for the date that really upset me.

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

I belong to several on-line message boards and they are a life saver. I couldn't have done this without their help and support.

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

My scar is great. It was practically invisible until I had to have it re-opened in Dec. for a hernia repair.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

The plateaus come and go. I try to view them as times I am losing inches rather than pounds so I don't become upset.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

oh yes. LOL People look me in the eyes now. I am approachable.