Weight Loss Survey Responses

The following are BigBob N.'s responses to the Weight Loss Survey:

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

Off and on battle-I would get concerned, diet, lose weight get off diet then slowly (sometimes not so slowly) gain the pounds I had lost and they brought friends.

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

Energy level-not being able to keep up with the kids

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

I had heard of gastric bypass surgery many years ago-I heard success stories as well as the horror stories

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

Remakably easy. I called Dr. Kellum's office-they asked if my insurance covered the procedure-checked the policy-told them yes. Had initial consultation with the "team"-they submitted info to the insurance co. I was approved within a week.

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

Very informative-They answered all questions The only advice I have is ASK-the only dumb question is the one you do not ask!

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I currently do not have any major health issues-no diabetes, no heart disease, no sleep apnea, etc.-However, I am getting to the age and weight where I could see any and all of these maladies in my not so distant future-I have 3 kids-the joy of my life-and I want to be here for them for a long time to come. The tool of this surgery will help me accomplish the goal of living a long, healthy life.

How did you decide which procedure to have?

Research,and asking questions.

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 have faith in God. I know where I am going when I leave this rock. If it is my time to go, so be it. I do not feel that God is done with me here on this rock quite yet-and I'm excited to see what lies ahead.

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?

Family is very supportive-as are most of the friends I have told. Surgery is in 11 days-will update this later

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

Again - very supportive-will update the second part of the question after I get back.