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

I didn't know much about bariatric surgery at all. I asked my doctor about it, he never mentioned it to me. But he did seem relieved when I expressed an interest in it. He felt I would be an ideal candidate for the surgery. At first, I guess I did think of it as a quick fix, but after talking to several people, I realized that this was a life changing surgery, and not just do to the fact that you lose alot of weight. For forty years I never thought too much about what I ate or how I ate it, now I was going to have to do both.

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

I feel very blessed to have only had to stay in the hospital overnight. The hospital I used was extrodinarily wonderful. Crestwood Medical Center, in Huntsville, Alabama has the warmest and kindest staff of any hospital I have ever had to encounter. I didn't need anything, they supplied every thing. I hope everyone can experience the same kind of care I received as a patient at Crestwood Medical Center.

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

I went into this surgery with a very good attitude. I praise God for all of my friends and family who prayed for me. I am two weeks post op and except for my scars and the loss of 18 pounds, I can't even tell I had 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 had my surgery one week after scheduling it. I didn't have very much time to think about anything. Although, I did say good-bye to some of my favorite things. I guess you could say I had a food funeral.

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

I have a group called Life Savers. There are about ten of these groups in our region. However, I have not been to any of the meetings yet. I feel very strongly about them though. I can't wait to be in contact with people in my community who are now or will soon be sharing my experience. There are so many questions that the doctors cannot answer. These groups are not just good, they are essential to health after weight loss surgery.

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

I had laproscopic RNY. I have only five small incisions. I don't expect to have any scarring or anything.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

One of the biggest differences I have noticed about the way people treat me is that they are more aware of what they are eating. It's like they start trying to justify eating unhealthy food. My husband still has trouble eating in front of me. I tell him it's okay; just three more weeks and I can eat solid food.