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

My best friend wanted to do this together and I wanted nothing to do with it

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

I stayed in the hospital overnight. I was treated ok. I had some trouble throughout the night. I was not aware that I needed to ask for pain meds and therefore, I received none. I was offered gingerale and crackers for nausea.

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

No complications

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 felt awful the first week, but it got better each week. I had a G tube in for a month, but it didn't bother me.

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

I was wiped the first week. Didn't really want to visit with anyone. Each week gets better. I had a lot of nausea for a while, but it eventually passed. I did notice I was more emotinal for a while. I did not get hungry for about 4 weeks. Not much pain, so that was good

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

10 minutes

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 tolerated the liqud diet fairly well. Had no real issues with food until I started eating. I could not tolerate eggs or tuna fish for about 3 months. I still feel very uncomfortable with beef, so I try and limit it.

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

I go the local supoort group meeting, once a month. They help a lot. I think it is important because you can share with others that are going through the same thing as you.

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

I have 5 small incisions that go in a circle, like a clock. It does not look bad

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have had 2 plateaus that lasted about 3 weeks. It was distressing

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes. As I lose weight, I am getting less negitive stares and comments. As for friends, family, and coworkers, I am getting wonderful support.