Angie W.

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Obesity & Me

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

I have been overweight for a while. I would lose weight and gain it back. I have been depressed every time I gained the weight back. Three years ago I got excited when I thought my insurance would cover the surgery. I had a meeting with the insurance Rep at my work and he advised me that it wasn't covered and I should eat less. I was furious and depressed.

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

Not being comfortable doing things with my family and friends. Not feeling pretty enough.

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

This will sound silly but taking the stairs and not being out of breath and feeling like I will fall over and any minutes is the best feeling. I love being able to play with my grandsons and not having to stop to catch my breath.

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

I have friends that have had lapband and gastric bypass surgery. I was interested in bariatric surgery from the first time I heard about it.

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

I went to a seminar about bariatric surgery and called my insurance to see if it was covered. I made an appointment with my surgeon the next week. Once I went to see him and knew what was needed to get the approval I started getting it done. I started this journey in October and received the approval letter the end of May. I was surprised that I was approved so quickly. My advice is to find out what is needed and start working on it as soon as possible.

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

My surgeon is great. At my first appointment he asked if I had an idea which surgery I wanted and when I told him he asked me why I had chosen that surgery. He listened and was willing to discuss my reasons. He was willing to answer any questions I had.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

Wanting to be healthy for myself and my family.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I knew if I had the lapband I wouldn't get fills like I should. From the research I did I found out if you have reflux gastric sleeve is not a good option. That lead me to gastric bypass.

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'm a little nervous about having surgery but I'm excited. My surgeon has had wonderful reviews. Read as much information as you can about the procedure and the surgeon. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Go to support group meetings prior to surgery and ask questions...listen to their experiences.

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 sister and boyfriend were very nervous about me having surgery. They all supported my decision to have the surgery. They are very encouraging and are always telling me that they are proud of me and how good I look.

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

My supervisor has been very supportive. She has asked me questions about the surgery and my progress.

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

The seminar was informative and I was glad I attended.

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

I had surgery on Monday morning and was discharged home on Wed. I was in pain the first two days. Make sure to take loose fitting clothes as the incisions will be tender. Take a pillow to put across your stomach for the ride home.

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

No complications at all. Loved the staff at the surgeons office and the hospital.

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 have been so excited. I talk about it with anyone that will listen.

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

I was very careful to to over do it. You will get tired very easily. Allow yourself time to rest during the day. Follow the instructions of your surgeon and don't be afraid to ask your family and friends for help.

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

30 miles

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

There is a support group that meets the first Thursday of each month at the hospital where I'm having surgery.
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