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

I met a friend 4 years ago who was newly post-op open RNY. I saw her pictures and watched her recuperate. I was curious but I didn't see myself having the qualifications to have the surgery, so it didn't impress me all that much in terms of me, personally. I was happy for her and I could see how it changed her over time in a positive way. Her daughter had the surgery too, so I was able to watch both of them go thru their emotional and physical changes and ask any questions.

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

My experience was easy and positive. My advice is to be very clear about your weight-related aches and pains at your initial visit. Every little bit helps! Think positive, do a lot of reading. The internet is full of journals of post op WLS patients. Take notes and ask lots of questions.

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

I think its best to come prepared. Bring your questions and fears and express them. My Doctor made it seem like he had all the time in the world to answer my questions. I really appreciate that attitude.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

Philosophically and spiritually I don't think there are any accidents. I got laid off my job late August, kept my insurance and had a lot of time to think and assess about where I was going and what I was doing. I think Carnie Wilson inspired me with her public statements. I read dozens of WLS journals online and began to think that maybe this weight gain was a blessing in disguise. I decided I had nothing <and everything> to lose by seeing if I could qualify. I decided that if it went smoothly, then it was meant to be. It went smoothly!

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

Before I went to the consultation I was worried since my friend had been to this surgeon 4 years ago and it was an open RNY. I really wanted a Lap RNY if it was possible. When I spoke to the doctor and found he has been doing Lap RNY's for the past couple of years I felt it was a message that it was time and it was okay =)

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?

Well I haven't had the surgery yet but I am not afraid that I will die from the surgery. I don't think thats in the cards for me to die on a table or post-op. The odds seem real low and I assume that it might be lower if my weight is lower, especially dying literally on the table. I turn these things over to God..if its my time, its my time..but I seriously doubt this is how I'm supposed to "go".

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 slim friends who have no clue think that if I would just go on the post op diet and drink clear and full liquids for weeks on end, that I could lose the weight without surgery <this cracks me up>. I suggested that if it were the case, I would be slim right now and clearly that it not the case! I have the type of personality where you can tell me anything, but that has nothing to do with whether I will do it or not. If I make up my mind, thats it..My family is supportive, concerned and hopeful. My 3 friends who have had this surgery are a great source of information and support. My boyfriend thinks I am gorgeous now and that I will continue to be so no matter what I weigh..Hes been great.

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

I'm not working...so this is a mute point. I am job searching but I will likely do temporary work starting about 2-3 weeks post-op.

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

The hospital was like a hotel. The nurses and staff were great and right there when I called. I was there from 7:30 am one day to 2pm the next day. The most important things I brought were a positive attitude, slippers, chapstick..they provide the rest pretty much.

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

The only complication I had was an allergic reaction to the pain medication which was remedied right away and then I was fine. I had no complications from the actual surgery.

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 had to wait a month between approval and surgery. I was glad it wasn't as long as others have had to wait. I felt excited. The night before I was emotional and crying and kind of scared, even though I knew I wanted it. I felt like I was about to walk across a threshold into a new life. I felt a bit sad about leaving my old life. The tears flowed alot the night before. By the next morning of surgery, I was at peace. I think anything I felt before was worth it to get to the other side.

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

I am still pretty new to the post-op side. I have the option of going to a aftercare support group via my surgeon. I haven't felt the need to. I have several close friends who are post-op and they provide most of my support. My friends and family are supportive too. I am sure its helpful and important to get support in whatever way you feel most comfortable.

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

My cuts are very slight. There are six of them. Two look like they might leave a mark. I am using Curad Scar Therapy on them to see if they work. Considering my stretch marks..these marks are no biggie. I got what I expected.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

None as yet.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Not yet