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

I read about Carnie Wilson (I think thats her name) one of the singers from an 80's pop group. I was amazed when I saw her before & after photos. I immediately started researching the surgery. To my surprise there were many weight loss surgeries available.

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

My hospital stay was wonderful, of course there are always something bad about staying in a hospital. But its nothing bad enough to mention. I was there 3 days. I went for surgery around 5:30am I think it was. As for things to bring I really don't know what to say I pack everything when I go somewhere. I don't think I have enough room here to type everything I took. :)

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

No, none what so ever.

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 mostly concerned with the whole live or die thoughts, but then again it was my first surgery ever. I remember being scared going into the operating room but I would do all over again.

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

Plenty of liquids. Ice is truly your best friend. Just listen to everything your doctor tells you & if you have any questions about anything ask your doctor. It's better to be safe than sorry!

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

I traveled to a different state. The roads aren't the best either. So the ride home so definately an adventure. The pain medication helped so much!!!!

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.

Well now I am having trouble tolerating milk products. I try to stay away from foods high in sugar. I don't like soda anymore but if its the only thing to drink I will force myself. I don't tolerate spicy foods as well anymore. Other than that everythings going well.

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

Days after surgery I wasn't exactly running 5 miles a day but then again I'm not doing that now. I had hardly any pain. Two weeks later I was back in college.

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

I take a One-a-day multi-vitamin. Plus a calcium & a protein supplement.

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?

I remember over eating then vomiting a couple of times. But I now know my limit.

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

I wouldn't say there were any bad things about this procedure. Although, my scar isn't the smallest(I had open surgery). Other than that it was all very good.

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

The hospital has support group meetings every Monday. I live so far away I can't attend them plus I have night class on that night as well. I hear they are very helpful though. Before surgery I attended one everyone was so very helpful & seeing the results was wonderful.

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

My scar is 6 inches long in the center of my stomach. I wasn't sure what to expect. But I have no regrets!!!

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes I do people don't stare as much. Not as rude as they used to be.