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

I found out about weght loss surgery watching Oprah and was very interested. It sounded like the perfect solution to losing weight and keeping it off. I never once was scared or wary of the risks.

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

I was in the hospital for 4 days, Friday morning until Monday morning. I came in and they started the prep process. I was nervous at first because I had never had surgery before. But the staff immediately put me at ease and it was wonderful from then on. The staff at the hospitol was so kind and accomidating. They offered words of encouragement and were so upbeat. A scrunchie to hold my hair back and a comfortable pair of slippers were the most important things for me to take. I also had reading materials and my makeup. It was important for me to look good in order to help keep me upbeat and motivated!

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

I had no complecations from surgery. The surgery was incredible and the recovery was awesome and virtually pain-free.

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

The first thing I noticed was the energy level. It was amazing to me how fast it changed. It took alittle to get used to how fast I felt full and how much I craved water. I did have to get used to eating tiny amounts and to chew my food very well. I had anxieties about the reactions my body was going to have to different foods but dealt with them like it was all a new adventure and kept thinking of the changes that were happening to my body every day.

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

I don't have any support program that I am involved in except for this wonderful website. This website has been amazing in helping me when I have questions or worries.

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

My scar runs diaginal from the center of my body to the left side and it is about 6in. long. I didn't expect it to be quite as long but it has healed very well and has faded to a pale pink. The way the incision was cut is to be less painful and I totally agree from my experience.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I had several plateaus since surgery. The first occuring three monthes and lasting a week then two since then. I am in the middle of a huge plateau right now at 18 monthes. It has lasted almost 2 monthes and I am trying a diet to jump-start the losing process again.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

I get so much more respect and the looks I recieve now are so much different! It helps that I don't hide anymore, I am more outgoing and I crave that attention now. I am a much happier person now and more active. My children are definately loving the benefits of this life-changing experience!!