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

My aunt had surgery years ago. My initial impressions? I was impressed greatly with her success.

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

My stay was horrible. I caught a fever I couldn't get rid of and it lasted for 4 days. I stayed in the hospital for 5 days. The most important thing to bring is someone you love and trust. I took my mother. Nothing else was important when you hurt that much.

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

No complications I wasn't prepared to deal with. I am now lactose intolerant, I can't eat bread. Sugar makes me dump hard and I feel bad just about every time I eat. It's worth it, though. I wouldn't change my decision to follow through with this.

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've felt ok, I've had no anxiety to deal with except the few plateaus I've hit. But I just bide my time and get over them.

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

I don't have any right now, but desperately need one so I can share and compare with others.

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

VERY big scar. About 8 inches long. I expected it. It's just another thing I had to prepare for before surgery, so it's not bothersome to me. I'm sort of proud of it.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

Every couple of weeks I hit one and have to wait a week or two to lose weight. Nothing serious except my old doubts that all the weight will suddenly be back one morning because I've not lost any.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

So far they are treating me a little differently, but it's good. My friends and family love it.