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

It was so long ago. It was the singer Carney Wilson I think and I knew that this was the only thing that was going to work for me

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

My husbands insurance, a private union policy paid in full. Approval came with the very first letter that was sent to them Blue Crosss and Blue Shield was my company and they said "NO" with the first letter.

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

My husband and I both met with her and we werer very pleased with all of the information that we were given by her and she was very information about what to expect.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I was tired of the pain. The constant pain. To much medicene. I wanted to feel good again, be able to go and do with my husband. Be able to live to see my grandchildren graduate from high school.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

The Dr. deceded.

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 written my obit. and left it on the dresser in the bedroom. I was so ready for this surgery, that I really did not care if I died. I want to be better so bad.

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

I had wonderful care at the hospital. I was there 4 days. The only thing that I brought along was a loose fitting outfit for the trip home. I remember sleeping alot.

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 felt tired and very weak. I do not remember having any anxiety. My husband was the best help to me that anyone could ask for.

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

I hope that everyone would have someone to help them like I did. When I woke in the morning he had cold water for me. he fixed all of my food for the first 3 weeks. We went for walks and rides, went to visit friends and family. Everyone should have this much help.

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

None

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

Long straight scar down my belly. This is exactly what I expected

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

None. Straight weight loss.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes. and I resent it. I am still me and I nitice it most in the stores. The difference in my shopping experience is like night and day.