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

On television. I was scared and thought impossible.

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

I had no problems getting approve for the surgery. My advice is don't give up, things will work out with a positive attitude.

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

Nervous, exciting, and very insightful. Listen carfully and ask as many questions remember there's no dumb questions.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

When I couldn't handle being the biggest person I know, and when I couldn't go anywhere or so anything with family and friends.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

My surgeon told me this would be the best since I am super obese.

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 a few fears of dying and complications. I know that if complications should arise that the medical staff is fully trained to handle these situations, and dying well basically the path your going, your on your way to death.

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?

I had alot of positive responses, and I had a few negative responses. I just told them my decision and I am happy with the outcome 'cause in the end I'm doing it for me, not them. I've not had my surgery yet.

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

I don't work. Not had surgery yet.

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

It was very informative and showed the warnings. Yes, I am very pleased that I attended.

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

Excellent. Be sure to bring a hairbrush, toothbrush and if you require a cane, walker etc...

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

No.

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 didn't have anexiety issues til the morning of and they gave meds for that.

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

Being tied to a timer drinking 2oz of liquid every 15min. until you get 64oz a day will really take a toll on your nerves. Just stay calm and time will pass quickly.

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

1hr. away. No it didn't affect the aftercare.

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.

All I can have is liquids and protein must have 64oz. a day. Then you can have puree food.

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

Must walk 15min. a day

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

Protein shakes and powdered bariatric vitamin.

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?

Dumping and sleep disturbance. I stopped after I stop takeing the Reglan

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

Taking 64oz of liquid a day by timer 2oz every 15min.

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

WLS Support group in Sevierville, TN. It is very important.

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

Minimal. No I expected more.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

More friendly and more supportive.