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

A friend of mine was having it. I thought she was taking the easy way out. I was so mean to her because of my jealousy and anger at myself for my struggles. After seeing what a horrible friend I could be, I started my research. I found that it is not the easy way out, it was the way out and nothing is easy about it! A year late I had my surgery.

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

My surgeon would say I was a "baby" lol because I found it painful and severely humbling. I have never felt so dependent on others to do such basic things like pee and wash. I felt humilliated and scared and I never thought I would be without pain. I was there 5 days after delaying my discharge. My surgeon was very patient but I knew he was frustrated with me. After five days, despite my soreness, I was walking, bathing and starting my journey. It got so much better from there I forgot all the pain I suffered.

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

I had no complications at all!

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 couldn't wait. Every minute in my body seemed like a lifetime. My surgery was pushed back three weeks. That three weeks was filled with depression and anxiety. I hated myself, I just wanted to do this already! I felt so positive about this being the answer that no pain could match what I was feeling. I felt motivated as well. Every month of the six I had to wait I picked a goal and mastered it. After I had the surgery, I had only the surgical mandates to contend with. It was much better and easier that way.

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

I went to the support group at Montefiore for a year pre-op and still attend now. You are always learning. I no longer need therapy, my therapist told me I am too happy! I have many friends that have had this done. It is so relaxing and great to be with them. You feel so normal and understood. My family and friends are very supportive. I could not have done this alone!!!!!!!!!!!!

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

I had laproscopic so I have like six little purple dots on my stomacjhe. I can live with that!

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have not plateaued yet. I have lost 95 pounds in six months!

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Totally. Even though I am the same crazy, funloving spirit, I am treated with more respect and I recieve more smiles from strangers every day. Men watch their P's and Q's around me now and I even feel their anxiety of what to say to me, hahaha isn't that a trip! The door is always opened for me and people do not fear me in elevators and subways!