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

Mostly television. I was hopeful and desperate for something to help me change my life. I

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

It was quick and agonizing. My advice is to stay strong and don't take no for an answer!

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

Besides the obvious pain of surger - the hospital stay was just fine. I was there for two nights following surgery. Make sure you have a loved one there the first night to help you.

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

No complications immediately. Several months after surgery I developed scar tissue that began to close up my esophagus.

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 was an ajustment period.

Describe your first few weeks home from the hospital. What should people expect from this period?

You won't be hungry.

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

I didn't attend any aftercare support. I should have. I have an extremely supportive family and that was huge...but looking back I could have benefited by a group.

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

4 small inch long incisions.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

None.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

People would never guess that I have lost 150 pounds.