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

My Uncle's ex-wife had it done in California about 7 years ago and ever since then I have done extensive research on it - I always wanted to have it done but had to wait for a job with the insurance

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

My hospital stay was great! I went in on Thursday July 3, 2003 and was released on Saturday July 5th {my 30th Birthday} talk about a wonderful birthday gift. I brought the basic neccesities along with chapstick- but I didn't have to use it b/c my lips were fine

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

I was very very lucky-- No!!!!!

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

Honestly I felt fine. I never regreted having it done. Now I was very sore but after a couple of weeks all was well and back to moving around like nothing again

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

I haven't been able to go to the support groups like I would like to b/c of my job but I talk to people on line and also have some friends who have had it done in the last couple years that I talk to about things. The more support you have the better it is.

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

I have 7 scars. They are healing good and they are not very big

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

None as of now which I am 6 monthes post op

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes indeed!!!