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Obesity & Me

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

I did not like being overweight, but I was pretty happy overall. I don't know that I had an emotional battle going on.

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

Not being able to do the fun things I wanted to do. Not wearing the cute clothes, having to watch as others went off to have fun and knowing I could not go. Being too embarassed to wear shorts or a swimming suit, or even a tank top when it was hot out.

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

Everything. Everything is easier, everything is more fun. I do not look at whether or not I will look silly or be able to fit, or if people are going to be looking at me or if I will get too tired too fast.

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

I first saw a television special about wls several years ago. At the time I thought man you would have to be desperate. Then I thought it was just a crutch, so you did not have to work at it or try at all. Now I know differently. I now see how it is a tool.

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

I could not get insurance. My advice is if you cannot get it covered by insurance, find a way. Beg or borrow. Take out a loan. If you can invest in anything, make it more years here on this lovely planet, make an investment in a healthier you!

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

I had surgery in Mexico, my first in person meeting was an hour before surgery! He was humble, kind and very professional. He answered all my questions and explained things in detail. Don't be afraid to ask questions!

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I am tired of being tired. I am tired of being unable to do some of the things I would like to do because of my weight.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I did a lot of research. Tons of it. I could probably write a dissertation on it LOL

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?

You can die from being obese, I don't feel that I was taking any risk except if I did nothing. Staying unhealthy was the greatest risk.

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?

They were all very supportive, but then they know i did not need their approval.

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

They were all great. I told everyone the truth and everyone was very understanding and supported me fully. Home depot gave me all the time I need to heal.

What was it like attending your first information seminar on weight loss surgery? Were you glad you attended? if so, why?

Boy that was 2 years before I decided to go for it. I think it was a band seminar and I was a little creeped out by one of the women showing her port site. I did not like that something would be under my skin like that.

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

It was great, everyone was so nice and helpful. I only stayed a day and a half. I am glad I had my slippers and my jammies, toothbrush, hair brush, loose athletic pants, phone charger, laptop, and hand lotion. Also whatever hygeine products you want.

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

Absolutely none.

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 was not anxious, I was excited.

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

It has only been one week, but the only problem I have is remembering to drink enough

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

I went 360 miles, it did not affect my after care as i set it up in advance with a local DR
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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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