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

I had been researching weight loss on the web one afternoon and came across a site for a clinic in California... I was ready to pack my bags and head west to get the surgery. One day I went to my therapist and she mentioned that another client of hers had found a doctor in my state that performs gastric bypass...so I got the info and got in touch with the doctor and everything happened from there.

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

I had absolutely no problems at all with my insurance company. My advice is to be patient... let the doctor and the insurance people handle the situation. But, if you have doubts... write a letter (personal story) about being overweight and send it to your insurer.

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

My surgeon, Dr. Procter in Gainesville, GA... he is the absolute BEST. My first visit with him was awesome... he knew what I was going through and sympathized with me. Make sure to ask as many questions as possible... I had many going through my head. Write them down the day before you go... you don't forget to ask.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I wanted to regain my health. I just wanted to make a change for the better and I was determined that I was going to have the 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 was so excited. I didn't feel anxious or nervous until the morning of. I was just ready to change my health.

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

PAIN !! Sometimes the pain is real excrutiating. I really liked just being able to relax though...

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

Nothing. The weight loss and blast of self confidence compensate for anything that could have been bad.

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

The program I went through has a wonderful support group system. I usually only make it to the meetings that are held the first Saturday of each month. Its real helpful to hear everyone elses stories of weightloss and surgery.

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

Its beautiful... I was thinking it would be very big and ugly. But it is hardly noticeable.