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

I first found out when I went to my PCP and told her, "I need help!" That's when she mentioned the surgery and told me where to go to get information and to get back with her. For me it was very upsetting - especially when I found out that it would change my life forever.

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

My experience with Cigna was a good one. I have been told how Cigna is hard to work with but I had no problems.

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

I was in the hospital for 2 days for gastric bypass surgery. The rooms at Flagler Hospital were nicer than most hotels in which I have stayed. They were clean and set up for heavy people. The most important thing to bring to the hospital is a robe & slippers because they are going to insist that you walk a lot.

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

No

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

In the weeks before surgery, I became anxious. That is not a good feeling but I tried to concentrate on the positive. I had great support from my family, my friends and my co-workers so I am sure it was better for me than some.

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

I am only at the end of my 2nd week from surgery I have a few concerns. I have had trouble in the tight scheduling of the pureed food and the drinking. You must have between 80 and 100 oz of fluids per day with at least 40 of them being water or water based. I have had a little trouble with the protein shakes - they make me nauseous. I have also had problems with diarrhea. This is to be expected but I have more than I think I should have. It is a great help to keep all times, etc on what you eat, the water content, the protein content, carbs, calories, fats, your daily weight and blood pressure and whatever else you need to keep tabs on.

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

I have none so far. That is why I am filling out all of the information for OH. It's a start. I have a unique situation where I stay at 2 different parts of the state from time to time - actually, every week and I intend to join an on-line group for now.

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

I have 1 scar about 2 inches and the other 5 are very small. They are just about healed and I am very pleased.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

None yet.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

I haven't been out much. I am going back to work in less than a week. However, I expect nothing but good things said - my co-workers are great people and they were very supportive of my decision. I have lost (since 2 weeks pre-op when I was put on that diet 34 lbs.