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

I first found out about bariatric surgery late one night while browsing the internet for weight loss help. I didn't know that bariatric surgery was available anymore until I stumbled upon www.Obesityhelp.com.

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

My first visit with my surgeon was like celebrating my birthday! In the weeks preceeding the appointment I felt more energy and optimism. Sort of, there IS a light at the end of the tunnel afterall!

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

When I was able to actually see before and after photos and read others stories about how much weight they were able to lose and keep off, I knew this was going to be the way to go.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

The surgeon decided which way to go based on my weight and my GERD problems.

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?

It was a mixed reaction. At first my husband hated the idea. But after I was able to educate him and he saw the before and after photos of others who went thru with the surgery - he was convinced I should have it, too.

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

My stay in the hospital was fine. I was in the intensive care unit for 2 days. Then transferred to another floor. As soon as I was on the new floor I forced myself to get out of bed and walk. I was sore, but it wasn't so bad once I got moving. (the I.V. of pain killer helped tremendously!)

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

No complications, thank God.

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 felt elated that I was on "the other side". After several weeks of daily vomiting, I did break down and cry one day wondering just what the heck I did this for. For all of you who might get to this point, know that it is temporary. My body needed to adjust along with the GERD problem I had. Although I "ate" very little, I was sick most of the time and miserable not to have my oreo cookies and other junk food to eat. Food commercials would drive me to distraction!

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

Dobbs Ferry has a wonderful support group thanks to the auspices of Dr. Artuso and one of his star patients, Marygrace Carone. He also has other helpers whom I don't know, but are there each and every meeting, too.

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

Scars? I have scars? <grin> Teeny, tiny laproscopic scars that do not bother me. Once in a while one gets a little itchy.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

Nov. 22, 2003 -It's been over a year and a half,and I think I can say I've stopped losing weight. In fact, I have to remind myself to eat sometimes! I weigh between 116 and 122 now.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

I think I am treated as if I am not invisible anymore. I feel more confident therefore I am treated better.