Karri T.

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Obesity & Me

Describe your behavioral and emotional battle with weight control before learning about bariatric surgery.

I had a incredible lack of interest in life because it was so exhausting just walking from one place to another. Grocery shopping was actually a chore and struggle. I was even having trouble grooming myself including wiping my backside when using the restroom. At that time, I knew I had to do something drastic at that point. I couldn't o to amusement part because I couldn't fit into the rides, I couldn't go to movie theaters as I didn't fit into the sits without bruising both sides of my hips. My daughter was made fun of because she had a fat mom and was embarassed. I wasn't able to be the mom I needed to be nor perform my job as effectively as I should have because I just did not have the energy.

What was (is) the worst thing about being overweight?

Lack of interest in things. Before we embarked on anything I would always consider it a chore rather than having fun!

If you have had weight loss surgery already, what things do you most enjoy doing now that you weren't able to do before?

Walking to and from my care without breaking a sweat without having to sit down to rest. Everyting is easier. I feel free.

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

A friend who had the surgery 6 years ago. My inital impression was that it was a cope out and that I should have the will power to do it myself. But after four years of considering it, I finally came to the realization that if I didn't do something I might start having serious health issues or perhaps lose my job.

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

Insurance approval was a breeze. My doctor sent in the request and it was approved within 2 days. Advice I would have is to have patience if it meant to be it will happen for you.

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

The stay in the hospital was horrible. I kept asking myself what did i do and how can I reverse this because I was so mirable. i was in the hospital for 3 days. Most important things to bring to the hospital is very little because you don't feel like to doing anything but recover and watch tv. I also recommend limited vistors that seem to make it easier for me. Make sure when your able to walk and walk that helps tremdously.

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

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 wanted to eat big portions but unable to without thowing up. it was very frustrating, This was the worst thing abou the surgery was retraiing my brain to the small portions. How I coped is that I had a very suportive family that kept reminding me this is temporary.

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

Rest,, rest, rest. Have pre-made jello, pudding all sugarfree available and made prior to coming home. Be prepared to sleep in the recliner rather than the bed because it is much more comforatable. Have lots of pillows and drink your protein. and water.

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

I did not attend any aftercare support groups. I just made phone calls to friends that had previously had the surgery for support and called my doctor for advice.

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

Scar was very minmal and really not noticable.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

Lots of plateaus, do not be discouraged the weight will come off, I guarantee it.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

I am way more confident since the weight loss and in fact I have received alot more advanment in my job and alot of attention from the opposite sex!
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Before & After
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before photo after photo

ARE YOU READY TO PAY IT FORWARD & SHARE YOUR JOURNEY? Your journey will help highlight the many ways weight loss surgery improves lives and makes a difference in our families, communities and world. EACH JOURNEY COUNTS as a voice towards greater awareness.

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