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

I heard about bariatric surgery from the media. I work in a large facility and one of the girls who works in manufacturing had it done. My initial impression was, WOW! I could never do that! It's too risky. What a drastic measure.

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

After my visit to the seminar I was given an appointment for consultation with my physician. He, in the meantime, sent a letter to the insurance company. The surgery was approved in less than 6 weeks! On the first try! I was so pleased.

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

My visit was great. I had talked with other patients that suggested making a list of questions and considerations to discuss with the doctor. I had a long list. Don't be afraid to ask questions, even the most obvious ones or ones that you feel may sound silly. This is a big decision you are making and you need to be well informed!

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

My health was very quickly deteriorating and I was very unhappy. After I talked with other people who had the surgery and had my fears laid to rest I decided to start of year 2002 on a positive note! I am SO GLAD I DID IT! It has changed my life! I am happier, healthier and enjoying life so much more!

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I did research, talked to other patients and doctors. This website helped quite a lot! The internet has very good information on the different procedures and what complications to expect.

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 really had no fears...I read the facts about the statistics

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 children didn't really have a reaction to my decision. They were supportive. My family (mother, father sisters) all had different responses to my decision. Some were against it completely. Really, only one sister supported my decision, somewhat. Most of my support came from my co-workers and close friends. Their support made my decision easier. I would not have communicated anything any differently. Ultimately it was my decision to make and I made it. I believe I made the right choice. I am extremely happy. After surgery, everyone began to see the results after a few weeks and were very amazed that I had NO PROBLEMS. I think they expected me to have pain, anguish and frustration. I did not experience any of them. Any surgery comes with a pain factor, but it passes quickly as you heal.

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

My stay at Southepointe Hospital was excellent. I had great care and they nurses were very supportive and helpful.

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

I had no complications from the surgery initially. The only slight issue was about 2 months post-op I caught flu-like symptoms which caused diarrhea and cramping for about 2 weeks. This passed and I haven't had any problems at all since then. I don't believe that the diarrhea and cramping were a result of the surgery.

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 great after my surgery date, with the exception of the healing pains, which are normal. I didn't experience any problems and fully expected to! You know, expect the worst then you are prepared. I truly had a great recovery.

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

I did and do not attend any support group. I did not feel the need, but I think it could be helpful for those who are sensitive to these types of situations. My family, friends and co-workers were very supportive. I kept in touch with my nutritionist and physician about every 3 months at first. I was sure to check my blood levels with my physician to check for nutrition deficiencies. I've had none so far! Two years after surgery 2004 Other than some temporary low iron levels I continue to do well.

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

My scar is about 8 inches in length from the breast bone to about 2 inches above my belly button. It has healed very well. After 8 months post-op it is light pink in color and no pain is present. It is what I expected. 2 yrs the scar looks great, all pinkness is gone

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I experienced plateaus only recently. I consistently lost weight each week until I reached 90 lbs lost. I am at the point where I need to incorporate more exercise and toning. I look and feel great, but would like to take off at least 25 lbs more.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

YES< YES< YES<!!!!!!!!!! Men and Women! It is expected that men would treat me differently, but I have even noticed that women do as well. The men are very flirtatious and complimentary. The women are complimentary as well, but I have noticed that they are also a bit leary of me now, especially when their "significant other" is present. I not only believe that this is from weight loss, but also from a change in self esteem, better attitude and the way I approach people now.