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

A lady that I knew had it and I was amazed at the change in her. She told me about her surgery. I was scared to death esepcially when she showed me her scar. But then I started investigating it on my own. I researched for about a year before I decided on which procedrue/surgeron, etc...

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I was sure right from the beginning that I did not want to be cut open. It scared me. If I could not have this procedure laparoscopically, It probably would have taken me longer to make my deicion. I am totally happy with my decision now!

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?

I was scared. I had never had any surgery before. I joined a local support group. They were so helpful. People in my church were praying for me. Actually, after the initial decision to go through it, and getting everything in order, I had a real peace about the whole thing.

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?

My family and friends were totally supportive of my decision once they knew I was serious and how much it meant to me.

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

I was in Munroe Regional Medical Center in Ocala Fl. They hospital staff were great for the most part. Only one nurse and nurse tech that were a little iffy.. I brought way too much. Make sure you bring your toiletries, slippers, and something comfortable to wear home.

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?

Ok, as of right now, I am 10 days out. I have had no real pain at all. Most just uncomfortableness from the G-tube I still have. It comes out in a week!! I will admit that I have had some mild depression. Mostly, what if questions. Like, what if I am the one to screw this up? What if I go back to my doctor and have not lost any weight, or gained weight! things like that, but I have been reassured by my support group, that these are "normal" feelings after surgery. So I am dealing with them.

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

I was a lot tireder than I expected. I had to keep reminding myself that I had just had MAJOR surgery. I guess not being in pain made me feel like I should just jump up and be back to a normal routine. The worst part was not being able to drive and having to rely on other people to help me.

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

I was one hour away from my surgeon and hospital. It did not affect anything negatively.

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 have been on a full-liquid diet since I got home. It has been ok. I eat LOTS of sugar free popcicles. Basically any cream/broth based soups that can be blenderized, grits, cream of wheat, sf yougurt, sf popcicles, sf pudding, etc...

What was your actvity level in the days and weeks after surgery?

I have walked since the day I got home. Not miles, but up and about. I think not being able to drive has been the worst.

What vitamins and/or dietary supplements have you taken since your surgery?

I have just been given my vitamin list. I take two childrens chewable multivitamins, a b12 sublingual once a week, two tums, and liquid iron.

What side effects (nausea, vomiting, sleep disturbace, dumping, hair loss etc.) were worse for you? For how long after surgery did they persist? How did you cope with them?

have not had any as of yet

What was the worst part about the entire bariatric surgery process?

Having to slow down and let my body mend.

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

I belong to the NFWLSSupport Group. I have met several of the ladies in this group. They are my lifeline!

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

I have seven little (about 1/4") incision sites. I am very please with how they look! I get my staples out this Monday! (6-25-01)

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

None yet.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Not yet.