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

When Carnie Wilson had surgery, my first thought was, "Eww, I wouldn't do it on the Internet". But now I understand why - she was unselfishly sharing her struggle for the world to see. God Bless her. I also didn't know my insurance would cover it. My investigation and actual WLS happened within 3 months, so looking back, I really can't remember if I thought it was the 'easy way' out or not. I think I just thought it was beyond my means and the rich woman's diet.

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 problem getting approval. I would suggest, however, that if you know the paper work is in the hands of the insurance company, you contact them and let them know you are waiting.

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

Having a bit of a medical background, I didn't have a lot of questions - especially since I learned so much from AMOS. We spent about 15-20 minutes together and I was absolutely sure I was ready for this, so I guess I didn't need alot of handholding. I think it does a lot of good to be very prepared before going in.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I had torn my meniscus in my right knee and the orthopaedic surgeon wanted to do surgery. I had glass removed from the same knee 9 years ago, and I didn't want to endure the surgery again. Also, I know that surgery would have only been a band-aid for the pain, and I would probably need it again every few years, and then likely, a new knee. I asked if I would get relief from losing weight, and he said, 'yes'. So I thought, well, if I'm going to have surgery, it might as well be a permanent solution, so I opted for WLS instead.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I went with the facility rather than procedure. BTC has been doing this for years, and they are specialists. When I learned they do the 'gold standard', I was pleased. However, being a big sweet eater, I wanted something that would discourage me from the goodies, so I was even more pleased with the RNY. I also respect the fact that open is a safer operation as my ex is a surgical assistant and I have heard many stories of laps going bad when the field of vision is compromised. Also, I scar well.

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?

Not really. I've had several surgeries and always came through with flying colors. I would say if you are healthy, young and have had prior surgeries, or babies, and came through that, you will do fine.

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?

All of my friends and family have been supportive. My sister-in-law, an RN, did have concerns prior to the surgery, but she has seen my progress and is now one of my biggest fans.

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

I am currently unemployed, so I don't have to deal with this one.

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

My hospital stay was very nice, considering the scope of the surgery. As I recall, the things that I brought and used most were the fan and the CD player. Other than that, I mostly slept and walked.

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

I had no complications.

In the weeks after you got your surgery date, how did you feel? How did you cope with any anxiety you might have felt?

The first week, I was sore, but in good spirits. My children helped pull me off the couch. I didn't sleep well because I'm a side and tummy sleeper and sleeping on my back gave me backaches. That got better in 10 days. I think I went into this knowing that there would be some weeks of discomfort, so I wasn't suprised at the pain or restrictions.

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

The worst part were the clear and full liquid stage and wanting to chew something! The diet gets boring very quickly.

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

I traveled 2 hours, but they moved there offices within 1 hour of me. I will continue to see them throughout my 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.

I have been able to tolerate everything since I've been on regular foods, including breads, pastas, meats and the occassional bite of sweets. I have learned, however that something that doesn't make you dump now, can make you dump later on as some pinto beans caused me to have abdominal cramps for about 45 minutes.

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

I didn't do much for about 5 weeks, then I began bowling with a 13-lb. ball. 8 weeks out, I walk, ride a stationery bike or a real one or dance about 5 times a week. I've a cold for a few days, so I don't have much energy right now. But the weather is nice (it's Oct. 1 in Michigan as I write this), so I'm going to bite the bullet and enjoy the sunshine while I can. I'm also considering consulting with a personal trainer for at home toning exercises rather than joining a gym.

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

I take two Flinstone chewables a day. I also keep protein bars and powder on hand when I have trouble eating the protien.

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?

Other than the sleep disturbance, I've been fine for two months. I could sleep through the night at about 10 days post op. I used get up and drink some water or read or watch TV for about a half an hour.

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

Seeing my weight come off relatively slower than other losers! I'm so jealous! However, I started at 43 BMI, so I expect that I will lose slower than others.

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

I generally stick to AMOS

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

Mine is fairly fine and looks a little better than most that I've seen on the Internet. My appendectomy scar is barely visible, so I'm not worried.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I plateau every other week for two weeks. That's just my cycle of losing and I've come to accept it. However, when I lose, I generally lose 5-8 pounds in a week.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

No, not really. I've lost 40#, so it's not as visible as say, 75 or 100 lbs., but I've not really been treated badly anyway. I am blessed because I'm attractive and confident.