Amy H.

Obesity & Me

Describe your behavioral and emotional battle with weight control before learning about bariatric surgery.

I was heart sick all the time. I felt ugly and very undesireable to my husband. I never wanted to go anywhere with my family. Being out in the public was a real strain on me. I couldn't find any clothes to fit me. Then, my physical began to work on my emotions. I was hurting all the time with arthritis in my feet, legs, back, shoulders, & neck (all over--really!) I had a hiatal hernia that kept me from getting a good nights rest. I had to sit up to sleep. My asthma was very bad and my husband said I snored VERY loud.

What was (is) the worst thing about being overweight?

The pain of not being able to live a quality life. Not having the self- confidence to participate in everyday activites. Very, very low self image.

If you have had weight loss surgery already, what things do you most enjoy doing now that you weren't able to do before?

EVERYTHING! I can do ANYTHING I want! I can hike, play ball, go sledding . . . ANYTHING!

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

I heard about it from the television. I was very hesitant about having any type of surgery, but after about three years of consistant weight gain and deliberating, I decided that I had nothing to lose but the weight (and maybe some of my pain!).

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 very pleasant. Everyone was so good and supportive. They told me I could leave when I could walk to the end of the hall. By the second day I was not only walking to the end of the hall, but all around the whole floor--and several times! The most important things that I brought were my personal hygene things--deodorant, body wash, toothbrush and tooth paste, brush, comb, and MAKE-UP!

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 was depressed a lot. The waiting period was really hard. Waiting for insurance, appointments, etc. was really getting me down.

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

I don't have anything or anyone.

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

What scars? I hardly have any. I had my surgery laroscopic. I expected it to be a lot worse.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I'm on a plateau NOW. I haven't lost anything in the last three months! I'm worried that I won't be able to lose anymore and I have 40 more pounds to go.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Definitely! I'm treated with dignity and respect! What's more, I have come to demand it! ;-)
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