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

I learned about it by looking at Carnie Wilson. I thought my prayers had been answered. It was a miracle. I finally could get rid of all these complications and problems. I also worked with a friend who had an RNY. She looks fabolous.

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

I didn't have any problem with Tenncare. My PCP and surgeon's office may sure that I had everything to send in. After a week, I was approved. The advice that I can share is that make sure that you have every piece of paperwork necessary. It is better to have to much than to not have it all. If you are unsure, let your surgeon's office look over it. I sure they will help you out any way they can.

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

I was a little nervous at first because I didn't know what to expect. I also was very content and happy because I was finally getting the help I needed. Be sure to ask all the question that you feel are necessary. Tell the doctor what your fears and concerns are. I'm sure many people before you had the questions. Just ask!

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

Basically, I just didn't want to die. Death was around the corner from me. I din't want him knocking at my door. I wanted a chance to be a active adult without being out of breath in five minutes. I would one day like to be a mother. I know if I bring a life in this world, how long would I be around to see it grow? It was so many decisions that made me decide to have this surgery.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

Basically, it really didn't matter what procedure as long as if was effective enough to save my life. I was okay in letting my surgeon decide what procedure to perform.

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 think that I am having the normal fears anyone else has. You have to look at the complications because they do happen. A person must realize that it could happen to them. It could very well happen to me. At least you are well informed and you know the risks. Even if I pass away from the surgery at least I know that I did everything that I could to become healthy.

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?

In my family, I have some supportive fans and other are not. You are going to find people who do not agree with what you are doing. My grandparents and one of my cousins doesnot agree. My grandparents think I should stop eating so much. If they only knew how much I ate they would be shoving food at my face. My cousin thinks I'm beautiful they way that I am. They all know that this is important to me so they keep their comment to themselves when I am around. There was no way that I can explain this to them and they think it is okay. All they see is the complication part of it. My PCP had to tell my grandmother flat out that if I don't have it then I will die. I think she is accepting it better now. After the surgery, I know I will have their support, but right now they are very skeptical.

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

When I was working my boss thought it was find and he told me good luck on my journey.

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

I was there for five days and my stay was wonderful. The hospital staff was awesome. The things I think are important to bring is air freshner, and anything that makes you feel at home.

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?

I was on top of the world. No one could hold me down. I did not reaaly feel anxiety until the night before my surgery. I just told myself that this is for me and that this is going to make me healthier.

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

I was fine when I got home. I didn't have any pains. It was just a change from doing everything in a rush to be very organized.

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

I have to drive 4 hours to see my surgeon. It is putting a strain on my pockets, but it is worth it.

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.

I am not allowed to eat processed meat. I can't tolerate pork. I can somewhat tolerate some beef except ground.

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

I am just trying to walk. I want to start out slow then I want to go into the heavy stuff.

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

Smelling the food that my mother cooks for herself. It is so hard .

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

I attend a support group where I am from. It is nice to have support from people who have already been through what I am going through.

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

I have about 6 or 7 little scars on my stomach. I never really had any expectations, but I figure that they will go away and blend in with my skin.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

I haven't notice people treating me differently yet. They are eager to know if I have lost any weight yet.