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

I first found out from my sister when she had it done in Mobile, Alabama at USA. My initial impression was "NO WAY"! Couldn't pay me to have it done. I had never had any kind of surgery a day in my life, so I wasn't about to volunteer for it! I guess everthing changes...especially when there is enough reason.

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

My approval took a while (too long for me). They required I go to a Psychiatrist and an Endocrinologist, but did say that my medical conditions were enough for coverage. It took a while, but I was patient (upset and discouraged at times, but patient). Anyone going through this, all I can say is be patient. After all, you really don't have a choice.

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

My first meeting with my surgeon was wonderful!! He was everything i could have asked for. Made me very comfortable right off the bat. i didn't second guess a thing and was ready to do it! Go in with an open mind and full of questions. You will know in your heart if the doctor you have chosen is the one to go with.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I wanted to get married and have kids and I didn't want baby weight on top of the weight I already carried around every day. I didn't think it would be healthy for me or the baby (needless to say, I am now 31 and haven't seen hide nor hair of the first baby...funny how life altering things can completely change the way you think - maybe one day).

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I met Doctor Seay and he told me the procedure that he does and it was just like my sister's. That was the only kind I knew of at that time. Minis weren't around then, or sure were being kept a secret if they were.

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?

My only fear was that I would be allergic to something they were going to give me (namely b/c I had never had surgery before). I didn't know I was allergic to penicillin until I was 22 when I had strep throat for the first time, so I could only imagine the drugs they were going to give me. The nurse assured me that they would have a counter-drug (to reverse the reaction) for every drug they use during the surgery. It was like that was all I needed to hear and I didn't doubt her one bit. I was ready to go!

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 was VERY supportive. They had already seen the wonders it did on my sister and couldn't wait for me to do it. They were also very supportive after the surgery and helpful. I couldn't have done it without them.

How did your employer/supervisor react to your decision? What did you tell him/her? How long were you out of work?

My employer was supportive, but no one could imagine me needing to lose that much weight. They said that I didn't look that overweight. But I sure felt it! I was out of work for 6 weeks. I blew everone's mind in a matter of 2 months! After all my weight was off (about 6 months) they realized how big I really WAS!!

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 (as hospitals go). The nurses were great with a sense of humor (that always helps). Always came in with a smile on their face. I was at Thomas Hospital in Fairhope, Alabama. I was there for 6 days. I suggest you bring a blanket (your "fave" from home), ASPIRIN or MOTRIN (BOY!! DID I HAVE A HEADACHE!), socks, and something warm and something cool. My temperature went up and down, up and down.

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

The only small detail I had with the surgery was I had a "bypass intolerance" at first, where I couldn't tolerate "fatty" foods. (I lived on cheese ravioli - 4 tiny pockets, cut into 4). That is how I lost my weight a little faster than others. Mine was nearly all of in 6 months. I never had vomiting or anything like that, nor bathroom problems of any kind. And, I also had anxiety attacks for a period of time. I didn't do well in restaraunts and such. It was weird, but it wore off too. Nothing else since then and I'm on my 5th year!!

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 didn't have time to feel anything between the time I got my surgery date and the time I actually went in. It was less than a weeks time. That was probably a good thing, because the anxiety would have beaten me up. I was alright with everything until right before surgery and the nurse helped me with all that, so I guess I was pretty lucky.

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

I was very tired and weak my first few weeks home from the hospital. My biggest fear was pulling my stomach. I walked alot at the mall, but sat down whenever I was tired. You can't overdo yourself. The best thing is to just take it slow. Your body will let you know. It seems like forever, but in almost exactly 2 months, you will be your old self again. Just count the days (and the pounds!!)!

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

I didn't travel very far for my surgery, 3 hours. You need to have a doctor in town aware of the surgery you are having and willing to help you if you need him/her.

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

I take the Trinsicon vitamin and it has everything in it. I also have to take a B12 shot because I have Pernicious Anemia. I can't say that that has stemmed from the surgery, because my mother has it and I have heard that it is hereditary.

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

The worst part about the surgery to me was the IV and the tube down my nose. I have rolling veins, so the IV thing was a chore and a big sore spot. The tube down my nose was killing my throat and very uncomfortable. But, I have to admit, I had it easy. The pain wasn't as bad as I had expected. I was more sore than in pain.

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

I didn't have an aftercare support group until, believe it or not, just last week (4 years later). It is still a big and important part of my life, so when I found a group I jumped in with both feet. I couldn't wait to share with others and hear their stories. From what they've told me, I am the longest one Post Op in the group, so maybe I can give them hope and support.

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

My scar is beautiful!! I wear a bikini in the summertime and show my belly any chance I get. He did a wonderful job. It is narrow and straight, starts center between my breasts and ends at my belly button. It is not jagged. It is very neat and tidy. :)

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

EVERYBODY treats me differently now. I am the same person inside, but I do have my confidence and self esteem back and it has made all the difference in the world! It is a topic in my life. I tell everyone about my surgery. I don't hide it and I am very proud of it.