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

I heard about it from an assistant at my doctors office who was talking about somebody they knew who got it. I was interested but didn't think I would ever be lucky enough to get it.

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

He was very nice, very comforting to meet beforehand.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I had a lot of health issues and wanted to try to fix them. I figured why not what's the harm in truely trying.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I didn't like the thought of changing my insides that much, this was the least invasive and it's adjustable, which of course is great.

What fears did you have about having complications or even dying from from the surgery, and what would you tell other people having the same fears now?

I had fears about every aspect from being put to sleep to having an alien object in my stomach. But you just get past that when you see how quick, easy and harmless it really feels.

How did your employer/supervisor react to your decision? What did you tell him/her? How long were you out of work?

Extremely supportive. Gave me time, support and encouragement. It actually made me want to get back quicker to be around their high spirits. I was out of school for about 2 weeks. The first few days are the worst of it, then the rest is hazy, but after 2 weeks it's okay to be back to work.

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

The hospital stay was brief. I was in and out the same day.

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

Huge life changes in the first few months; still trying to cope, taking it day by day.

What vitamins and/or dietary supplements have you taken since your surgery?

multi, b12 sublingual, calcium

What was the worst part about the entire bariatric surgery process?

Emotions in every aspect of every part of it.

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

Group seminars at Tri-State

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

5 small ones

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

At a plateau now, hardest time yet, support seems more focused to new patients; currently unsure, reaching out constantly

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes and no. Differently sometimes, but not always better.