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

I have been thinking about having this surgery for years. I think it is great to have something like this as a tool to help people lose weight

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

I had no problem

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

I was very nervous. I think if you have questions write them down because once you are in there you kind forget what you wanted to ask.

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

I had no problem with my work

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

My stay at Unity was good. My nurses Where very helpful. I did not feel like I was being judged as a fat person unlike when my step daughter had her surgery the nurse was very rude to her (she was at another hospital) I think the most important things to bring to the hospital are comfy clothes, hygeine products, something to read, slippers. I can't remember what all I took.

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

The first couple of weeks home I was kinda sore. I quit taking my pain medicatins about 2 days after I got home. I just took my time getting up. I was pretty tired but went back to work 1/2 days 2 weeks after surgery. the third week out I went back full time. I would encourage anyone to take at least 3 weeks off unless you are feeling really well.

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

I would walk. Ech day going a little farther. It was 6 eeks fter surgery that I started taking care of mmmy horsesand that is only because I could not lift much. I did what my body would let me.

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

b-12, multi vitamin and calcium

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 had some hair loss not to bad. I vomited only a few times. all which I have not had for while. Just remember to eat your protien and chew, chew, chew and when you think it is ok chew some more.

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

My scar is not as big as I thought it would be.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

If I do not exercise I stay the same . You really do need to exercise

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

not really