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

Ive always heard about "tummy tucks" since I was younger and had an empression that they never worked. I dont think I knew "tummy tuck" and gastric bypass where two different surgeries. I heard about lap band surgery on a t.v. comercial and thought I would look into it.

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

When I initially wanted the surgery in 2005, I had my x-husbands insurance. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska, they denied me at that time. I tried again when I was removed from that insurance because of divorce. I went on Blue Cross Blue Shield Blue Plus of Minnesota (medicaid). I was approved within a few weeks. My advice is to never give up. Polocies change everyday to benefit the changes of science and the changes in health care.

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

I had my mind set on lap band. If I could go back I would have wanted more information on all types of surgeries. Of course new studies have came out on the lap band since I have had it put in 2007

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

My health. I wanted to get healthy for my children. I still do. Its still an ongoing battle for me.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I was young, I didnt do too much reasurch. Lap band was a new thing. I thought it was the "magic pill"

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?

Basically in the world today, they have so much technology, there is really a slim chance of dying. I told myself, would I rather die of being over weight or die trying to get healthy? I heard being obese or even over weight is like having a diagnosis of cancer. Fat distroys the liver, just like an alcoholic would distroy thiers.

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?

They were find with my decision. No one tried to stop me. They were not that supportive.

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

I never told them what kind of surgery I was having. I told them I was having surgery though. I was part time, my boss gave me a few weeks off, that was enough time. It was laproscopic.

What was it like attending your first information seminar on weight loss surgery? Were you glad you attended? if so, why?

Yes, it gave me a lot of information, support and inspiration. Sadly that was the only one I went to. Im planning to go to another one that helps inform me of how to get back on track with the lap band.

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

It was ok. The room was small. I remember having a lot of gas pain more than anything. I asked for gas pills, but the doctor wouldnt allow that. I knew walking was important to prevent blod clotts. I did a lot of that. I only stayed 1 night if I remember right. I was able to sleep in my bed when I got home, unlike my gallbladder sugery a year earlier. I would bring a robe and slippers for sure. Maybe a notebook and pen to write down questions and experiences.

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

No complications.

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 horrible at first with all the gas pain, but in a few days it was a lot better.

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

Being nervous about the first few bites of food you take. Of course, take it slow. You will find out what your body can handle and what it cant. You want the surgery to heal properly.

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

Only an hour. Didnt affect aftercare.

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 took it slow at first followed the diet plans. After a few months, was eating like I normaly did before the surgery. Had a few fills here and there. Did get one over fill and couldnt even choke down water. I stayed at a comfortable fill for a long time. Never lost weight, if I did it wasnt much and gained it back. I got pregnant during that time and lost the baby. After 6 months of beeing down in the dumps, I got pregnant again and had them take all the fluid out. Ive been filled 2 times since I had my last baby.

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

Not active.

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

I took a multi vitamin every day. Now Im taking a prenatal vitamin every day.

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?

Throw up when I eat too fast. Or dont chew enough.

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

Not chosing the right surgery, or so I think. I dont know yet I guess.

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

None, I think its important. I would like to find more support.

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

Yes, its not bad compared to my STRETCH MARKS!!! LOL

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes, because Ive actually gained weight! What an emberassment.