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

A close friend had surgery and watching her through her journey

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

Do what they ask, its not hard. It might take a little time but its worth it

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

It was a very informative. I had done research and had question ready for the doc. he was very helpful in answering all my questions and most before i even asked

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I was ready for a new start!

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

Research and help from my pcp and surgon

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 none. I put it all in gods 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?

Before the surgery my family was not very supportive. I think they were scared. After the surgery they have been great very helpful and supportive.

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

My manager was very suportive. I was off work for 4wks.

What was it like attending your first information seminar on weight loss surgery? Were you glad you attended? if so, why?

Yes! I learned that i was not alone

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 2days. It was very pleasent stay, the staff was very helpful. I followed to the t everything they wanted me to do. Most important things to bring is a small throw pillow to help support your stomach while sitting up and walking.

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

No

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

oh gosh, it was so long ago. I dont remember it being bad just wanted it to get over with. I was sick of jello!!!!

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

Do be a little slow, your body needs time to heal.

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

30 miles

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.

For the first four weeks i followed all the detailed diet plans my surgeon gave me. And i slowly added items to my list. I still have a hard time with different breads. I try to maintaine a high protein low fat diet.

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

I walked 3to 4 miles a day 3wks after surgery and joined a gym one month post-op. I have a trainer and now visit the gym 4 to 5 days a week

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

I take calcicum, multi vit, vits b12, b complex,

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?

hair loss. i have managed to cope with this with increasing my protein intake and taking a biotin supplement. Its wonderful. My hair is even ticker than before surgery

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

the wait

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

Just friends and family

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

i have 5 small sratch like scars. Not to bad

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

i did have a plateau, my doctor had me increase my calories as i workout alot and was burning more calories

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes! They are much nicer and friendlier. People who wouldnt give me a second chance now try to be my best friend