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

I saw and advertisment in the Sunday paper. I started reseaching it for a year before I made an appointment. My first impression was, if I knew the insurance company would pay for this, I would do this in a heartbeat.

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

My stay in the hospital was good. I had 2 excellent nurses. I was in the hospital three and a half days. Honestly, there's not much to bring. Clothes to go home with, very loose fitting, don't bring a bra, you won't be able to wear it, bring a T-Shirt instead. They really give you the hygiene stuff you need. But your personal preference stuff.

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

I had no complications. I took one pain pill the first night home from the hospital and nothing else after that. The ride home was my most complicated thing. It's a rough ride, you will feel every bump.

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

It's very natural to feel concerned, worried that you may not make it through the surgery. I simply wrote all my friends, husband and children letters to be opened in case. I know that sound really bad, but it made me feel better knowing they would have something from me if something should happen. I was never concerned with the pain, I knew in the end everything you go through will be for the better.

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

I have not attended any aftercare program, although my surgeon does encourage it. I've been just doing so well with so many friends, co-workers and my family supporting me.

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

My scar is not bad at all, it's 6 3/4 long. Not problems with it at all, opening up, etc. I really didn't know what to expect.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

Just one for 2 weeks, I was stuck at 50 lbs but that past quickly. I just modified my meals to eat less carbs. I don't eat much of them anyway but I figured it couldn't hurt.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Just treating me with support and admiration for my achievement thus far. They are eager to see me after we've not seen each other for awhile.