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

I thought it was my last hope.

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

Well, at first my company had an insurance that didn't approve it. When they changed I was approved the first time. Of course, I had to keep calling them and it took about 2 months to get approved. Don't give up. Keep on them keep calling them and don't let them forget about you.

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

I love my surgeon. He is a no nonsense guy. When the Dr's tell you to do things listen to them. They know what they are talking about.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

Just knowing that if I didn't I was going to die and not see my kids grow up and be productive adults. (I hope)

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

I was at a wonderful hospital and I couldn't have asked for better nurses. I was there 5 days including the day of my surgery. Make sure and take very comfortable slippers to walk in and a phone card if you have family out of town.

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?

It is soon for me to tell.

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

To have some pain, to have some depression and to have some fear. You will get through it, it doesn't last a long time. When you start feeling the weight loss you then get a feeling of euphoria.

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

100 miles. My surgeon had a home health nurse come and see me a few times a week for the first 2 weeks because I did live so far away.

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 to eat only soup for the first 2 weeks. I then couldn't eat chicken for the first few months. I now can eat almost anything. Which in some ways is a bad thing.

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

I don't have one because the closest one is over 100 miles away. I wish there was one closer. I think it would be beneficial

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

VERY LONG!!!! Alot more staples than I expected.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have had plateaus and they are frustrating but I was explained that this is a resting time for your body while it is adjusting to your new weight.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Oh yes. Sometimes that bothers be but then I think they treat me differently because I act different. I am more confident.