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

I first heard about it on t.v. For several years there was no way I would even think about it, but something finally snapped and I knew it was something I had to do.

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

I am a person that NEVER had any type of surgery done, and had never been put to sleep. I was petrified!!!! I just knew that I would die on the operating table and never see my husband or my family again. The morning of the surgery, I balled my eyes out the whole time till the anesthesiologist gave me the good stuff. An hour and a half later, I was out of surgery and in the recovery ward. That part sucked, but that is because I am a very restless person and wanted to start moving right away. On my way to the room, the nurse informed me that I would have to walk from the gurney to the bed in my room. (the Infirmary is very adimate about you getting up and moving around as soon as possible.) I was very happy they did, and had no problems walking. Yes, it was difficult at first, but I was bound and determined that this was going to work. I slept the rest of the night, and the next morning, they had me walk a little more, then took me to have a swallow test performed. After that was done, I was able to drink water and had my first liquid meal. All in all, I was in the hospital 2 days, with no complications what-so-ever. Make sure you bring something comfortable to sleep in (those hospital gowns are not fun) comfy slippers, at least one book to read, or a puzzle book. (not much to watch on t.v.)

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

The only complications I did have after the surgery were bloating from the gas they use during surgery, then once I was at home, having to relearn my eating habits and daily routines. It is not as hard as you think it may be. I just knew as stubborn as I am, that I would have a very hard time giving up the old me. But, a little lightbulb went off that said you can and WILL do it, and I have had no mental problems since then. Physically, I did have a couple complications at home. One, stay away from Apple Juice for the first week or so. Even if you do water it down, it will cause dumping syndrome. Drink massive amounts of water (of course, only a little at a time. Follow the dr.'s orders) I almost ended up back in the hospital due to dehydration, but I was able to get it under control.

In the weeks after you got your surgery date, how did you feel? How did you cope with any anxiety you might have felt?

right after the surgery, I had some remorse, but after my wedding ring started falling off (two days after the surgery) I knew I had done the right thing, and was ready to make the journey to being a healthy person.

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

I have not attended any support groups, but I do have many friends, co-workers, and family that help me to keep on the right path. I get nothing but encouraging words, pats on the back for a job well done, and wonderful compliments.

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

I have six little scars and they are healing quite nicely.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I think I am hitting my first plateau right now (going on three months post-op) The thing that you have to do (I am telling myself this as well) is to not get discouraged. Make sure you exercise and keep watching what you eat. It is very easy (once you are on solid foods) to let things get out of hand. DO NOT DO IT, but I have been able to eat sugar and I have found myself trying to slip back into those old habits. I just have to white knuckle it and keep telling myself that I did not have major surgery for nothing!!!!

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

oh yes...It shouldn't be this way, but people are alot more friendlier, more responsive to me and notice me alot more. I really love the attention though.