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

Originally I did not think it was for me. Then I continued to have problems and keeping from adding a few pounds each year became tortuous and never ending.

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

So far, so good. We will see once everything is paid for completely.

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

I first went to the intro meeting and everything described me, so I turned in my personal packet of info and set up a date for our consult. I like Dr. Hendrick's straight forwardness. I didn't want someone to make things out to be peaches and cream.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

Life, I wanted a healthy, active life.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

The originally thought the band and then changed to by-pass because Dr. Hendrick said (and research proved) it had stronger long term results.

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?

Dying, stroke. But everything went smoothly, no complications.

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?

Positive, but nervous.

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

My principal knows, and she was happy. I don't plan to miss any work.

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

Very good. I was there for three days. Bring walking Pjs because you should be up and walking, a lot!

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

None

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

Anxious, I logged on OH and checked stuff out, did internet searches, and talked to friends and family. I was very open about my surgery.

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

You will be sore and tired, but I was also felt strong and happy. I know I made the right decision for me. I worked around the house.

How far did you travel to have your surgery? (If far, how did this affect your aftercare?)

Less than 5 miles.

Please describe in detail what things you could and couldn't eat in the weeks and months following surgery. What foods have been off limits? Please explain how your dietary tolerance changed week-by-week, and then month-by-month since surgery.

no here yet... So far I am still on clear liquids.

What was your actvity level in the days and weeks after surgery?

Active bursts, with rest following.

What vitamins and/or dietary supplements have you taken since your surgery?

None yet. I start next week.

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?

None yet!

What was the worst part about the entire bariatric surgery process?

Soreness, lol.

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

Family and I plan to start going to a WLS support group.

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

Not bad! Five tiny and one 2-3 incher.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

Not here yet!

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Can't wait to find out!