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

When I first saw the ads for bariatric surgery , I thought not me. I don't want to be cut. Then I started trying to diet. I could not do it. My friend had surgery in 2001 and until she went in I tried to talk her out of it. How silly of me. Now almost 3 years later she looks great. I am ready to start my new life

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

It wasn't tough. We lost insurance for 6 months and then when we had it again the company had changed things. Now they wanted a 6 month monitored diet. So it sorta set me back. Not hard. Once we met their "wants" it only took two weeks for approval.

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

He was great. Don't be afraid to ask questions.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

After trying to diet, I realized I love food. I also needed a tool to assist me in losing weight.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

Open RNY is the only way my Doctor does it and I had a friend also have it done.

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?

Be positive. Yes it may be a risk, so is being 200 pounds over weight.

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 kids were excited. I think my husband ws nervous. You are talking major surgery.

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

Fine. Not much rest. I was there for 4 days. You don't need to bring anything. Maybe lip balm.

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

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 so mentally ready. I was excitied and scared but ready for my new life.

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

Hurley offers a support group in my area. It is very important. I also am very social and talk to many people. I find that helps others is good for me too.

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

I think it looks pretty good. I don't figure I'll ever be in a two piece. I am healthly and that is all that matters.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I haven't had any to this date so far. I have lost about 4-5 pounds a week. No complants here.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes,being overweight is just no fun. We don't treat heavy people with respect. After being there I know but I think that a lot of people think that fat people just sit around and eat. I know this is not true. We have families, kids and things that we want to do and we don't want to be overweight we need someone to give us a tool to lose the weight.