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

Many girls I worked with had it done and we exchanged stories through e-mail. I felt very encouraged by their results--I found nobody that was sorry although I did find two people who had it reversed for medical reasons.

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

I did not have weight loss surgery at first but I was told by Blue Cross to have the surgeon submit and and get the rejection so I could appeal it. I lost the appeal and the surgeons office staff either did not understand what I needed or was not willing to cooperate. They said I needed to get all of the doctor's clearances before they would submit it. After having gone through all of that, I lost the appeal anyway. I changed Blue Cross plans but it still took another year. Persist and insist--you are your best advocate.

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

I liked the surgeon right from the beginning although I certainly was apprehensive. Dr. Hoddinott explained everything to me and I felt confidant that I had chosen the right surgeon.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

Desparation. There wer no other answers for me. I wanted a better quality of life and injecting myself 10 times a day was not doing it for me.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I just followed Dr. Hoddinott's advice.

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 afraid of dying but that seemed like a better option than living the way I was. I would tell others to address their fears, not hide them. That is what the support groups are for, that is what the surgeon is for. The complications are very real. I had kidney stones following the surgery, a slight heart condition, and Bell's Palsy so far. I also had to finally give up working for now, but I am not sorry I had the surgery and urge others to consider it if it is their only answer left.

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?

They were more supportive than I felt I was. It was difficult for me, especially after being turned down two or three times. My reaction was to just forget it but friends would not let me do that.

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

All were supportive (worked for three companies) but once the complications started, they could not keep my job open forever. They were very patient though.

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

I was in the hospital for five days. The nursing staff was always short-handed and some doctor's orders were either neglected or just not addressed. I don't think the hospital staff was well-prepared to deal with someone my size but they were very apologetic and friendly. I only had one nurse who I considered to be a disgrace to her profession. I think one needs to bring their instruction manual to the hospital. I consulted mine often and took the time to meet with the bariatric coordinator and get many questions answered about what to eat and when, etc.

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

Yes, but I took them one day at a time, all the while keeping my eye on the goal--to control my diabetes and feel better. I still do that, not weighing myself daily, making sure I get my exercise, eating properly. When it seems overwhelming, I remember my long-term goal. Kidney stones, slight heart condition, an abscess and Bell's Palsy were complications I have experienced thus far.

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

At first I could not wait. As it came closer, I was frightened but not willing to back out. I was going to do this--no matter what. It was the only opportunity I had for a better lire.

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

It was more difficult than I expected but I also had two hernia repairs which I did not expect. Perhaps they made it more difficult. I know the incision was longer because of that. Medications presented some problems too. I am about two months following surgery now and I feel great.

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

About 35 miles. This did not affect aftercare and everyone was easily available to me by phone. The visiting nurses helped make it easy to recover.

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.

I had a difficult time with eggs in the beginning-no matter how they were prepared. Also cheese with garlic in it. For one week I had a problem with milk products so I tried lactose milk. I did not like that so I switched back in about a week and everything was fine after that. Other than that, so far everything is okay. I eat a lot of fish and chicken and go light on hamburger, steak and pork. Chili works well. The protein is sometimes difficult to eat enough of but I come close.

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

At first it was very slow. It still is not what it should be but I have knee replacements. I'm limited but spend at least 15 minutes a day on my treadmill--more if my knees will tolerate it.

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

Two children's chewable multivitamines, iron pills, calcium supplements (Tums) so I also need to take two vitamin D tablets.

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?

I have not encountered any of these yet and hope I don't. The worst thing I have experienced is the feeling that I just ate a Thanksgiving dinner occasionally, even though I am not overeating. Some days, I just can't eat as much (or I should say as little) as on other days.

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

I think the fear the few days before the surgery--putting my "house" in order in case something did happen. Would everything be okay? If I died, would my assets be distributed as I wished. If it came to a decision that had to be made, would they follow my wishes. Not pleasant things to think about but one must.

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

There is a support group but it is too far away for me to go to during the winter months. I have been doing okay on my own.

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

I was cut in the same place where I had a previous scar. It is healing nicely although I do have an abscess.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I am having one now although not severe. I have just tried to bump up my exercise or at least to keep moving. Sedentary is not in my vocabulary until after 5:00 p.m.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Everyone is amazed. I think mentally I need that. It helps me stay focused on the final goal