Weight Loss Survey Responses

The following are Renee C.'s responses to the Weight Loss Survey:

Describe your behavioral and emotional battle with weight control before learning about bariatric surgery.
I have tried every diet under the sun. I would always loose the weight but gain it back and more. I was becoming severely depressed and needed to find a way to regain control in my life. I hadn't really dated. I seemed to have relationships with men that took advantage of me or just didn't treat me the way I should be treated. With respect! Almost like they were ashamed of me.
What was (is) the worst thing about being overweight?
The way society casts aside those who are overweight. No one looks you in the eye. Somehow, people assume that because you are overweight you are less intelligent, lazy and completely not worth their time. I haven't dated in 5 years.
How did you first find out about bariatric surgery and what were your initial impressions of it?
I found out about the surgery from a friend of mine that I hadn't seen in years. She had the surgery a year ago and looked wonderful. After that I did a ton of research on the internet and prepared myself to see my primary care physican. Never did I expect to get the approval.
Describe your experience with getting insurance approval for surgery. What advice, if any, do you have for other people in this stage?
It was fairly easy. I had already been seeing my primary care physican about my weight problem. After I had made up my mind I wanted the surgery, I made a list of every of diet I had ever been on plus a complete family history. I went to see my doctor and we discussed the procedure and a week later I had the referral to see a surgeon at UCLA. The wait for a consulation date was long. I waited 6 months! It seemed like an eternity. But, I used the time to get myself mentally prepared. I started seeing a therapist and got my life in order.
What was your first visit with your surgeon like? How can people get the most out of this meeting?
It was very informative. I asked tons of questions and he asked me questions. He wanted to be sure I knew what I was in for!
What made you finally decide to have the surgery?
I went to Disneyland with my goddaughter in Dec 2001 and I completely worn out! I could hardly walk the next day!
How did you decide which procedure to have?
I did some research on the internet and decided I wanted Lap. The down time is much shorter. UCLA only performs RNY so I did not have the choice of any other surgery.
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 was worried that I would get a blood clot or even die. BUT...I felt so secure in the knowledge that my surgeon did not want me to die! He was going to do everything he could to "save" me. Being comfortable with your surgeon and having complete faith in him or her is the most important thing.
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 family was supportive from day one. I never expected this kind of support from them. I have some problems with overweight people I know. They think this is the easy way out. Unfortuately it couldn't be farther from the truth.
What was your stay in the hospital like? How long where you there? What things are most important to bring?
It was good. A mini-vacation! It was the first time I could completely relax. No telephone to answer. Heck I didn't even watch T.V. Just dozed on & off. I was in the hospital 3 days. There is no need to take anything except deodorant. Of course I packed a small bag but I never got in it except for the deodorant!
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?
I was anxious and I cried at a drop of a hat. I kept myself busy. Visited with friends and cleaned my house from top to bottom!
How far did you travel to have your surgery? (If far, how did this affect your aftercare?)
I had to travel 2 1/2 hours away from my home. I went straight home after surgery with the knowledge if I had any type of complication I would be back in the car on my way to UCLA. My PCP provides all of my aftercare. We are both learning everything together. Scary but she has a few patients she has referred for WLS and I was her first patient. She keeps in contact with UCLA and I & she are religious about blood work and follow up. I see her once month just to monitor my progress.
What vitamins and/or dietary supplements have you taken since your surgery?
Calicium Chews from Trader Joe's, Multi-Vitamin with Iron, a monthly B-12 shot, Biotin, Zinc and Vitamin E.
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?
The hair loss! I cut my hair short and pray it grows back!
What aftercare support group/program do you have? How helpful/important is this?
I attend a support group here in town. I am so very thankful it is here because I need it. I need to hear that everyone has gone through the same things.
What is your scar like? Is this what you expected?
My scars are nothing! They are a bit dark but I would rather have that then the long open scar. (I had my surgery Lap.)
Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.
I have plateau every month before my period. Nothing big.

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