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

my first time to find out was thru my dr she told me about the surgery and how she believed it would help me since there was nothing else that i could take for my blood pressure i was scared to death but i went to the support group that she told me about to learn about the surgery my first impression was one of not being sure but those people in group were great at helping and answering all my questions

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

the hospitla stay was a good one the nursed really seemed to care and the dietian was great she answered all my questions and was a good support also dr duke was a one of a kind dr who really cared. i was in the hosp for like 3 days and it was ok make sure you have something to read and to write i keep a journal of my weight loss and a long night gown or something loose to wear home for comfort

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

no i seemed to do ok no complication for me i was lucky i guess but i was sore for a long time as i had the staples the open so it was a little more sore

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 felt tired for a little while and worried that i did the right thing as most people also get that feeling but as time went on i started to get more energy and started to loose the weight i felt great about my self i was getting confidence i had never had i coped well with feeling i had lots of friends and family for support and it helped alot

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

we have a support group that meets one wed a month and a good support group it is also our bariatrics director is good she lets u call anytime you need her and our dietitan is the greatest also we can talk to her anytime and the dr is also a part of our support so they are all then when you need them

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

it is there you can tell yes i was told it would be there but it will stat to show less the more it heals i do not mind it was well worth it to have my life again

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

i have had my ups and downs but over all it has been more uphill then anything i fell good about my self and i have lots of support and am happy

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

some people do but most treat me like a person and who i am i just do more know and get invited to do more cuase they know i can