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

A co-worker did it and I thought, "Wow! Can I do that too?"

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

It was fairly easy. After one week, I was told by the nurse at my doctors office that I need a cardio clearance. I had a stress test and that was it. In 4 weeks, I was approved. I think that one has to be patient in this stage and know that it will work out.

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

He's not very personable but he is professional and that's what is most important.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

My blood pressure climbing and the people that I know that have had it.

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

The first 24 hours are fuzzy to me. I was in the hospital for 4 days. It was quite an experience. Quite embarrassing because I had an open surgery, so when I went to the bathroom, I couldn't reach back to wipe myself and the aide had to do it for me. But it was bearable. The nurses were wonderful and very pleasant to talk to.

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

Thank God, I had 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 good in the next several weeks. Alot of trial and error as I learned what to eat. I honestly did not feel anxiety. I mentally prepared myself for the change before the surgery.

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

I do not go much to the support groups however I have 3 co-workers that have had the surgery as well so we support each other. It's very important to have someone to talk to who knows what they're talking about.

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

My scar is about 8 inches long. It's really not what I expected but I would rather have an 8 inch scar than 140 of extra flab on me!

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I hit a plateau at 241 lbs. For about a week and 1/2, I did not lose anything! I got a little nervous so I called my doctors office. I was advised by the nurse to go on liquids for two days and sure enough I started losing again.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes! People notice me more and my husband can't get enough of me. My kids (ages 23,21,20, & 18) keep making me try on their clothes. I'm turning many heads these days!