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

I first found out about in 1999. I was approved and scheduled, but backed out. I recently had a conversation with a cousin of mine and she let me know all about it and how good she felt. My first impression of course was the opportunity to be thinner.

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

I had no problems being approved.

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

My first meeting I was nervous and basically shocked at how much I weghed. My doctor was very open and upfront. I was asked over and over if I had a questions or concerns.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I finally decided to have the WLS because I knew that I had no control any longer and didn't want to continue having my weight go higher and higher.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

My doctor decided. I was approved for the RNY.

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 can't say I had any true fears. I am Christian woman and although I knew the risks going in I trusted GOD.

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?

I didn't initially tell my family, however by the night of the surgery everyone knew. The reaction mainly was happiness for me and true support. If I had it to do all over again I probably would have talked more about it and told my family sooner. My family is truly supportive and caring.

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

My supervisor is overweight as well, but when I told her she seemed alright with it. I don't really feel comfortable discussing personal information at work. My first day out of work was 11/06/06 and I haven't returned yet.

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

My hospital stay was just like any other. The staff was very supportive and helpful. One of my nurses had also had the RNY procedure. I stayed in the hospital M-W. I didn't bring anything with me to the hospital.

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

I had no complications.....THANK YOU JESUS!!!!

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

I am no 3 wks out and I am still adjusting to the change. Every day to me is a struggle trying to keep the transition smooth and the menu varying. The way I cope right now is talking through my frustration with family, friends, etc.

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

For me the first 2 weeks were a huge struggle. I just could not acquire a taste for a lot of the things I was supposed to be having. I wasn't even taking my protein. I had lost 26lbs the first 2 weeks out of surgery. I think people should get in their mind sooner than later that there is a huge sacrifice in the weeks following surgery and to try to be as positive as possible.

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

I traveled about 15 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.

In the first 2 weeks I hate to say this but since I could not stomach broth and other suggested liquids I took my vitamins and sipped cranberry juice. I am only in week 3 and I have been able to stomach tune and soft meats, other soft or pureed like foods. I am definitely looking forward to having a variety to choose from.

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

My activity level was mediocre. I got up and walked with no problems but I am still struggling with fatigue and staying awake through out the day.

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

Protein, multivitamins, calcium, and sublingual b-12

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 haven't had many side effects just yet. I still am not sure what "dumping" feels like.

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

The actual procedure. I was in a lot of pain right after and a few days following, but now I have almost no pain and the incisions are healing fine.

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

none.

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

My scars are almost invisible unless you are looking intensely at the sight.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

None at this time.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

no.