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

I was always familiar about bariatric surgery. I knew some individuals who had it prior. At first I was really scared. Because I saw others go through so much pain after surgery, and so i based my recovery off of theirs.

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

I can honestly say once I made the sound decision to go along with it, everything went smooth. I didnt have any problems getting approved.

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

My first visit, I was really nervous because I didnt know what to expect. You can reach out and ask people, but everyone experience is different. But my surgeon was very nice, considerate and gentle. He made me feel as though I mattered. He didnt belittle me or anything. He assured me that I was making a great decision. I advise others to ask a lot of questions, get all that you can get. And build trust with your surgeon.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I finally decided to have the surgery, when everything else didnt work. Years and years of dieting, i just couldn't see any real results and I was tired.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I went to some classes at Kaiser, and this was the best one for me.

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 always was afraid of the pain. I saw others suffering so much after, so I based my recovery off of theirs. Plus I had a cousin who died after having surgery. But I never had a fear of dying from surgery. It wasnt even a thought. But I am a firm believer in God. My mother began to pray from and she assured me that I would have absolutely no complications. Besides over eating, I didnt abuse my body, I didnt sleep around, i didnt use drugs, drink or smoke. So I believe that played a big part in my healing. Its normal to have fears, but dont let it consume you. Do your research, and become very knowledgeable of what you are getting ready to do

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 parents were the only ones that I cared about, and what they would say. NO one else mattered. I told my grandmother after i got my date, she has always been so anti- surgery. I wouldn't change anything. My mother is my #1 cheerleader. she encourages me. She works out with me. She tells me how great I look. I love playing dress up in her clothes. My dad supports me by always telling me how great I am. Other family, they give me compliments. But they didnt support me or even come visit during the process.

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

I didnt tell them. It was none of their business. I took 6 weeks off.

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

My hospital visit was good. I slept most of the time. I was only in there a day. I over packed. Just bring loose clothing and your phone. They provide you with everything else.

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

i had absolutely no complications. PRAISE GOD

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

After I got my was elated. I wasnt scared anymore. And any negative thoughts I had, I prayed about them and I always had my mom to encourage me.

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

My scar is okay. Its 5 little marks on my stomach. I really didnt know what to expect

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

OMG. People actually talk to me know. I exist. I have a name. I'm not just so and so daughter. But I dont totally blame it on them. I'm sure I was not always plesant. But I love my life now. Im so much more open. Im much more outgoing. I hug a lot more. I laugh a lot me. I just love it