Weight Loss Survey Responses

The following are Becky G.'s responses to the Weight Loss Survey:

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

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

Hating myself, hating the pity I'd see in my families eyes when they'd see me. I hated the way teenagers would snear and make rude comments. I hated that I couldn't do anything without huffing and puffing.... I couldn't hardly even stand while making dinner. I'd have to do it in small bursts, sitting down on a chair between them.

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

A friend of mine had a RnY surgery about 4 years ago. At first.. I was so upset with her. I'd heard all the bad examples from years and years ago. Then after that I saw a commercial for Bariatric Center of Michigan... I called them and got a brouchure. I decided that this was something I needed to do. But I did not like the idea of dumping, I did not want to have to *diet* as well as have surgery. I've always failed at diets. Somehow I heard about the DS surgery... and I investigated it further, eventually meeting others RL who'd had it. I decided that was the best surgery for me, as it offered the best *normal* way of life, and had the best long term results. I wouldn't want to gain back any of the weight after loosing it.

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

I had a very positive experience with my insurance company - Medical Mutual of Ohio SuperMed Plus. I called and talked to one of the information helpers, and she told me all I would need to send in, along with the Dr.'s letter of necessity. I compiled my life long weight history, even though only 5 years was needed. I included documentaion from Dr.'s, which showed my weights. I wrote a long letter as well, expressing why I needed this surgery. All of that together was sent in, and withing 3 weeks I had my approval. Pretty cool. :)

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

I called and set up an apt. to see Dr. Hess. He takes a small group at a time, having them watch a video about his practice and the surgery. Then he see's you personally, to talk to you and weigh you. He video tapes that for his reference. From the information he gathers he then writes up a letter of referal for the Ins. company. He was friendly, rather amusing as he's always chuckling and happy. He then told me about the pre-op informational meetings, and that I should go to one. I did, taking my husband with me so he could understand the process too. How can you get the most out of this? Be prepared... research your surgery types.. and look at long term results. Dr. Hess has been doing this surgery for over 15 years.. and at the meetings you can actually meet some people who are 5-10 years postop. This is a great help to see how it's changed people's lives.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I hung off... even after my first surgery dates were scheduled... I was afraid to go through with it. Finally..having gained another 40 lbs since my first apt. I decided it was time. I was only gaining more and more weight, I had to put an end to it. That's when I decided... and then when Dr. Hess gave me the opportunity to do it without having to pay my portion... yikes.. I nearly ran to have surgery!

How did you decide which procedure to have?

I researched. Always research!! Not just people's words... everyone seems to like their own choice. But choose for yourself. Some surgeries end up needing revisions. Check that out. My goals were simple. 1) loose the max amount of weight 2) KEEP it off forever! 3)be able to enjoy normal eating 4) Is the process reversable and finally.. 5) which surgery leaves the body functioning the closest to how it was meant to. The answer to all these for ME was the duodenal switch 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 worried about complications... I worried about adhissions and bleeding during surgery. I have had a very *normal* recovery, for which I am truly thankful!! My main worry now is staying hydrated... and taking my vitamins. :) Most fears are unreal... and we grow stronger by facing them. What is more scary then dying of obesity? surely not having surgery. I'm an odds player.... I go with the high odds.. and that says that everything will go good.

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?

Everyone I told was happy for me. Some worries of course, but all seemed to agree that I needed to do something. They were all worried about my dying already. My husband didn't want me to have the surgery... but he became the BEST nurse to me after surgery and during recovery at home.. and all through this. It's bolstered our relationship so much! He wants me to be healthy.. and HAPPY. Happy being the key. I've not had anyone tell me it was a bad idea.

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

When I told them, they are a couple, they were positive. Turns out they had a friend who had a wls! They were concerned about how long my recovery would be, but they hoped for the best for me. I was off work for about 3 weeks..and then slowly slipped back into my work schedule with no problems. Hardest part was I couldn't stand sitting at my desk early after surgery.. it got better, and as it did, I was able to work more normal hours.