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

My friend had the RNY and she has done remarkably well! I wanted the same for myself. I noticed that she felt better and looked great. I needed a change...so I went for it!

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

Arghhh! The insurance was a nightmare. It was the most difficult time in my life. To want something so bad and not be able to receive it after all the premiums I pay each month was ridiculous! I couldn't believe that they denied me 3 times! Once I was diagnosed with diabetes, I was approved!

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

My first visit with Dr. McNatt was great! I enjoyed him and I could tell right away that he was a knowledgable man. I was encouraged by his expertise. He was friendly and I had so many questions. I recommend taking a list of questions to your doctor. My doctor sat back and answered every question I had with great thought. I am pleased to have had Dr. McNatt!

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

When diabetes set in. I would have to give up my job as a school bus driver in the state of WV if I became insulin-dependent. My sister has to take four shots a day...so I knew my chances were great that I would have to do the same thing. I knew I would lose my job. So, I think that was the finally breaking point. I had to have the surgery!

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

My insurance did not approve any other procedures except the RNY. So, I accepted that and went with it.

What fears did you have about having complications or even dying from from the surgery, and what would you tell other people having the same fears now?

Oh, I did have fears. But, I am a praying woman. I pray all the time. I handed complete control over to God because He's in control anyway. I just give Him all my worries. I was scared I would have complications....which I did have 3 hernias to be repaired.

How did your family and friends react to your decision? Would you have communicated anything differently if you could now? How supportive were they after your surgery?

My husband and close friends were very supportive. My sister and brother were apprehensive. But, they're glad I had the surgery. They see such a change now. My dad was there the whole time. My husband was the greatest support system I've ever had.

How did your employer/supervisor react to your decision? What did you tell him/her? How long were you out of work?

I was off for summer break when I had the surgery. My doctor released me to go back to work on the first day of school...so I didn't miss any days! I have taken off a few days because I felt bad or needed a break when it was so hot. But, I was down for 4 weeks. I took care of myself and didn't do too much.

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

My stay was good. I hated the fact that I was awakened every few hours at night. So, I felt that I could not rest. I had surgery on a Friday and was released on Monday. Important things to bring to the hospital: Socks and slippers House coat (robe) PJ pants Underwear Small bottles of shampoo, lotion, deodorant Magazine Your OWN pillow Phone card Leave Valuables at home (NO jewelry, etc)

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

I had a 6.5 hour surgery. I had 3 hernias that I had no prior knowledge of.

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 only had a few weeks to think about it. I got busy and cleaned my house and cars before the surgery date. I was just anxious to get everything done before the big day.

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

My first few weeks were great. I had a great support system. I prepared meals prior to my surgery; however, people from my family and church brought items for my family to eat. I just required jello and plenty of crystal light!

How far did you travel to have your surgery? (If far, how did this affect your aftercare?)

I traveled 3 hours from my home to Morgantown, WV for my surgery.

Please describe in detail what things you could and couldn't eat in the weeks and months following surgery. What foods have been off limits? Please explain how your dietary tolerance changed week-by-week, and then month-by-month since surgery.

I did jello, crystal light, soft or pureed foods for a couple months after the surgery. Now I eat most anything in moderation. I don't eat rice or high carb items. I do not drink tea anymore. I have had a soda now and then---left out overnight and no carbonation & plenty of ice! I love sugar free popsicles. My diet hasn't changed all the much. I try to get all the protein in each day and drink 60 oz a day of water.

What was your actvity level in the days and weeks after surgery?

Right after the surgery, I was dreadfully tired. I didn't have energy to put one foot in front of the other. I get that way still.

What vitamins and/or dietary supplements have you taken since your surgery?

I take a shot of B-12 vitamin once a month, and I feel better! My energy level has increased. I take a once-a-day vitamin each evening. I take a potassium pill in the mornings.

What side effects (nausea, vomiting, sleep disturbace, dumping, hair loss etc.) were worse for you? For how long after surgery did they persist? How did you cope with them?

I don't have many side effects. I did have a couple of episodes of dumping. I now know what bothers me and what doesn't. I am beginning to lose my hair more and more. Thin feels better than being bald...that's for sure!

What was the worst part about the entire bariatric surgery process?

Learning to live a new lifestyle. This is not a temporary fix. It is permanent. Weight loss surgery is ONLY a tool. You have to practice using the tool everyday.

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

This website is all I have for my support. I live in rural West Virginia and there is no support groups. I do go to counseling once a month to keep check on my emotional eating. My husband is a great support to me as well as friends I've made along the way who also have had this surgery.

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

I have 11 little scars on my abdomen. Due to hernia repairs during the gastric bypass surgery.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I notice I quit losing when I do not drink enough liquids.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

I am talked to more. My son's friends call me 'skinni-minni'--which puts a smile on my face!