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

I learned of bariatric surgery from a college peer who had the surgery. She had been heavy her whole life, was developing the co-morbidities associated with morbid obesity, and was ready to make the lifestyle changes for a successful long term result. Initially, I was amazed at the very existence of such a radical surgery for the treatment of obesity. Then, I was taken aback at the risks involved and the process individuals underwent to welcome such drastic medical/surgical intervention. Lastly, I was delighted to see my friend emerge from a world of comprised living due to co-morbidities to a world of glowing health and a wholehearted embracing of life and all the wonders it offers.

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

My own journey from researching the surgery to actually choosing that as my means of treatment was about four years in length. By the time I was submitting the necessary paperwork for insurance approval, I had thoroughly researched what the insurance company might want for verification of weight-loss attempts, for the need of a psychiatric clearance, and for my family Doctor's need to write a letter strongly detailing the medical necessity of this surgery. Therefore, with my surgeon's capable staff and my own attentiveness to details, all appropriate paperwork was submitted at one time and my surgery was approved immediately upon my first request. My advice is to be thorough and actively involved in the paper gathering process.

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

My first meeting with my surgeon was cursory in surgical details and such. I stated to the surgeon my reasons for consulting with him and my realistic expectations. He gave me an overview of the risks and benefits and we parted with my understanding that after insurance approval was granted, a more thorough discussion and question and answer session would be part of my pre-op appointment. He was gracious, to the point, and I felt confident that I, after considering several surgeons in my area, had chosen wisely. I feel that having family members attend this first meeting with the surgeon was extremely helpful. My family felt reassured after meeting him and I also had another set of ears that could hear what I didn't.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

After thorough research over a four year period, after meeting several successful and unsuccessful WLS patients, and after my family Doctor urged me to have the surgery, I felt that the benefits of the surgical outcome far exceeded the very serious risks involved. I also knew that I was ready to closely adhere to the permanent lifestyle changes that would be imperative for maximum success. Finally, I want to enjoy my life. I want to run and play with my children. I want to awaken refreshed and energized rather than wondering if my swollen feet will allow me to accomplish my daily responsibilities.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

Again, thorough research plus the surgeon's procedure recommendation aided me in the procedural selection.

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?

Even though the statistics of dying from the surgery are small, if I am the one to die, the statistic is no longer small but is 100%. However, as far as I know, I have done all I know to do to educate myself about this surgery. I have aggressively determined what behaviors I can do pre-operatively to better my chances of survival. I am prepared to have a post-operative recovery period enhanced by my adherence to the diet and medical regimen recommended. I am a Christian and that means, I recognize God's Sovereignty. I also have the assurance that I will, for eternity, dwell with Him. I have two children still at home and a husband I adore. I want to live and live in a way that my energy and exurbance for life brings them great joy. I've done all I can to prepare and, in my opinion, it is just one more life decision that I have to place at the feet of Jesus and trust Him explicitly regardless of the outcome.

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?

At the beginning of my journey four years ago, my husband was quite reluctant to even accept the possibility that WLS was a viable option. I wisely chose to inform him of my findings gradually and intermittently. I love and respect him enough that I talked with him before I made my final decision to pursue surgery so that he understood the risks and benefits and my commitment to the post-operative lifestyle changes. My husband and children fully support my decision. Contrary to what this survey might indicate, I am very private about my personal life and didn't feel my friends opinions were relevant.

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

My employer was concerned but supportive. I told her of my confidence in my research, my doctor's recommendation, and my surgeon choice. My surgery is scheduled for 6/24/03, which is 20 days away. My post-operative period, as it relates to my employment, should be 4-6 weeks.

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

My hospital stay was six days long because of a rectal bleed that required 3 blood transfusions. I received care on the regular floor and then on the next level of care, PCU. Both floors provided excellent, compassionate care.

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

I experienced a rectal bleed 3 days after surgery that required 3 blood transfusions. Since I had confidence in my surgeon, I refused to become unduly frightened by this complication. I just followed their instructions and prayed.

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

In the weeks following surgery, I felt very well and had no problems tolerating my prescribed diet. I was fortunate in that I did not have any anxiety or depression symptoms after surgery. The only thing I noticed is that I fatigued easily.

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

There are two support groups that meet in my area. I attend those meetings when I can and keep in constant contact with the groups by email. The groups have individuals who are years post-op, newly post-ops, and those considering the surgery. The group shares all kinds of information and has a clothing exchange.

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

My scar is approximately 10 inches long and has healed nicely. It is just about what I expected.