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

I actually have known about it since 1980 I had surgery in 1980 at Mt. Carmel. At that time I was given no education concerning it. I was told to go home an eat half of what I used to. I lost 85 pounds very fast and had no problems. Unfortunately because of the lack of education it was not a successful venture.

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

No problem. With mutilple health problems and because I have to doctor almost monthly their were 12 years of records. Also having a family doctor who you are comfortable with and stay honest with about all problems including both physical and mental is a big help.

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

My first visit was pleasant. He and an intern spent alot of time with me. Drawing his own pictures of the procedure explaining everything in detail and in layman terms. Anyone going to the surgeon should be well informed and take any questions to them. For me a surgeon who did not rush me, was personable, and informative made me secure.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

In May 2001 I had stoke level blood pressure was hospitalized for 3days. I had a heart cath and the cardiologist told me again that I was smothering the left side of my heart and if I did not do something drastic I was not going to be here. The day I was released I came home and filled out my packet that OSU had sent me several weeks before.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

The surgeron decided. I had previous surgeries so the open surgery was needed for me.

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?

I had so many health problems and knew from my last heart cath that I was smothering my own heart. For me it was a chance to save my life. I also knew mentally I was ready to have the surgery and my desire for quality of life diminished any fear. The reality that any surgery can have complications and WLS is no different. I think education, trust in your Dr. and facility and believe that you are going to a better life helps calm you down.

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 scared but with me educating them and my Mother and daughter attending support meetings with me, hearing a surgeon speak, they became comfortable. My daughter was really scared as she had a friend's mom that died from the surgery.

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

I am disability retired from multiple health problems.

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

My hospital stay was fine. I had good personal care although the dietary department messed up several times. I was in the hospital 5 days. I took way too much to the hospital as I did not feel like reading my magazines or books. I am glad I took a little makeup as it made me feel better to do a little of my routine.

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

I had and open surgery and had a slightly racey heartbeat for a couple of days. I could feel the difference and it went away and has not returned.

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 actually have not snapped back like I usually do. At 4 weeks post op my energy has really just now started to be somewhat normal. I have walked when able but have not pushed myself. I was nervous with others eating around me so I eat alone right now. It is easier and helps deal with any head hunger that may come.

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

I was slow and sleepy. I stayed on pain meds about 10days after coming home although by the 7th day I was just taking at night so I could rest. I followed dr orders and I think we should all try to do that. Let your body heal, get your rest, so that when you progress you can deal with obstacles.

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

25 miles.

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 am 32 days post op and still on alot of blended. On the 29th day I was allowed to start stage 3 which is allowing me to try a soft food each day. I am taking it slow and chewing. I have tried baked fish, pimento cheese, carrots, baked potato and got along ok.

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

Very limited as I was weak. I walked when I could.

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

As of 32 days post op I am still on Flintstone chewables twice a day.

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 have been very fortunate it took me almost a month to not wake up 2 or 3 times a night. I have vomited only once and I think it was antibiotics that made me sick. 6 months out I have had no hair loss, sleep problems, or anything. The only side effects I have is discovering I do have bones inside LOL.

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

I think the mental pressure of your life changing. So many things we do is based around food and drink. You have to be committed to wanting your health and life more than being one of the gang.

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

I go to the OSU support meeting held each month. I also communicate with several people who have had the surgery and continue to read and educate myself. I think support groups are extremely important. You learn and get motivated. I think it is also important to share that I continue monthly and sometimes twice a month with mental health counseling. This keeps me on track with emotional eating and staying ahead of depression as my body and life is changing so quickly.

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

My scar is from my breasts to navel. He did an excellent job. His scar already looks better than my gall bladder scar from 1974. 8 weeks out and my scar looks beautiful. Thank you Dr. Cook.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

8 weeks today and I have none. 53.5 pound loss 12 weeks today and I have none. 68 pounds lost

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes there is a definite difference in how I am treated with a 68 pound loss.