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

I found out of Bariatric surgery on Discovery Channel. I spoke to six different Doctors as well as saw the result of several friends during a period of four years before I decided it was the best option for me. My initial impressions were negative since there was a lot of negative information as well as a lot of complications that could arise.

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

My experiencing with my insurance carrier at the time of surgery was fabulous. I recommend that anyone planning on having Bariatric surgery to contact there insurance and see what requirements must be met. Furthermore keep copies of all medical documentation of any diets, exerciser program, including Doctor's orders to facilitate information to insurance.

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

It was great, i already had an idea of what to expect since I researched both the Doctor and facility. I had questions for the Doctor already written down so that I may answer all concerns that my family and I had.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

It was the best option to eliminate other health issues that were becoming more apparent.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I eliminated the band of the back due to its maintenance that is not covered by any insurance. Then i spoke to my surgeon and based on my medical needs as well as insurance covarge I decided to go with the Gastric Sleeve.

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 left it in the hands of God. I had no fears nor did I think negative going into surgery. I knew all would be well, I was in good hands.

How did your family and friends react to your decision? Would you have communicated anything differently if you could now? How supportive were they after your surgery?

Family reactions were skeptical since not everyone believes i the surgery and the good it brings to ones health. I don't believe i would have communicated anything different. As to support after surgery depends on who you ask, but I do receive a lot of support and since the weight is coming off and they see the positive changes they are more motivating.

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

They had no reaction, and at first were accommodating to schedule. Unfortunately I no longer work for that employer and the one I have now is very supportive.

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 about three days. I brought under garments as well as a set of clothing to leave the Hospital. I also brought a pair of slippers, and robe to walk the hall. I brought my own toiletries since I am picky. So I recommend if you like anything in particular take it with you.

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

Thank Goodness No complications from surgery.....

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 counted the days and made plans of what the new me would look like.

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

On liquids only ate a lot of Popsicle. Everyone is different and tolerates food differently. At first I was lactose intolerant I am starting to tolerate lactose again. You must have patience what one day you can tolerate the next day you can't.

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

I am about a 45 minute drive on a good day from the facility I choose.

Please describe in detail what things you could and couldn't eat in the weeks and months following surgery. What foods have been off limits? Please explain how your dietary tolerance changed week-by-week, and then month-by-month since surgery.

Immediately after surgery for the first 2 weeks I was on only liquids. I started consuming protein about 7 days after surgery. As soon as i was given the okay to start on solids I have tried chicken, tuna, and a variety of seafood. At 3 months post surgery I cannot eat tuna, chicken must be moist, no heavy red meats or pork, and no spicy foods....As per vegetables must be very tender and light on salt. All foods must have a low sugar intake or I cannot digest.

What was your actvity level in the days and weeks after surgery?

My activity level as well as tolerance to strenuous activities is increasing as the days go by. I do a lot of swimming and exercise in water. I found that to be the most helpful. I walk every day and have started to do weight training.

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

Vitamin C, Multi- Vitamin, B-12, B complex, Calcium with vitamin D

What side effects (nausea, vomiting, sleep disturbace, dumping, hair loss etc.) were worse for you? For how long after surgery did they persist? How did you cope with them?

I have had very little side affects post surgery. The only thing that occurs from time to time is if I eat to fast or I get upset and do not digest food I have some vomiting. If the food is not moist I will have dumping.

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

None so far.

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

There is a support group available at the facility where I had the surgery. I have found that they are educational and help with the motivation to continue to strive to do better. It also lets you see your not alone.

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

Scars are minimal and I knew what to expect since I had my gallbladder removed in a similar procedure.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

At this time I have not experience any plateau the only thing I have found is that when you are with your menstruate cycle, you can retain weight but start loosing right away.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes defiantly, I receive a lot of compliments. I feel great and I know that shows. I have lost over 6 sizes in clothing so it helps when I do a little shopping here and there.I don't feel that I am being stared at for being over weight. It feels good to go out with the family and be able to keep up with the kids.