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

Bariatric Treatment Centers commercial and Carnie Wilson. It seemed drastic but I knew from the start that I had to do it to live.

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

I don't remember much in the hospital.. until I went home. I was pretty groggy, after all, I did have to have a transfusion. I lost alot of blood. Between the medications and my hemoglobin being so low I was in a cloud most of the time. My nurses were great though. I'd say a robe and slippers and of course the one thing I forgot--the wooden spoon or tongs!!

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

Lost too much blood. I didn't have to deal with it much.. They gave me a transfusion and I stayed in a haze for most of the time.

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 was so nervous I couldn't eat much.. always nauseous. I lost ten pounds prior to surgery.

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

The first week I was feeling like I had gone a few rounds in the boxing ring with all the punches landing in my gut. The second week I made myself get up and walk my daughter to school. I was still pretty sore. But I made it and then I came home and slept for a few hours. I slept alot those first weeks. The third week I was back to work.

How far did you travel to have your surgery? (If far, how did this affect your aftercare?)

20 minute drive.. not that far away