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

I found out over thirty years ago when I dated a young man who had been morbidly obese. He had an intestonal by-pass. I thought it was dangerous and un-natural.

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

I had no problems with insurance approval.

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

My first visit was exciting and very informative. Come to with questions for the surgeon, but do your own homework before hand. There is a lot of information available on the internet and other resources too.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

As my diabetes worsened and I realized I did not want to continue on the same path. At one point I thought I was headed for an insulin pump. I was tired, depressed, in a lot of pain and on countless meds. When I seriously investigated Bariatric surgery I saw a light of possibilities.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I trusted my surgeon. He chose the rny for me, said he could do it lapriscopically and it was the best surgery for my type.

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 had a concern about my enlarged liver being an issue for lapriscopic procedure. My surgeon reassured me all would be well. There is a waver you sign stating that if they have to open you up its okay. Talk to your surgeon, ask questions.

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 were for the most part very supportive. Some said I wasn't heavy enough, why don't I just diet and go to the gym? I did explain how the diabetes was shortening my quality of life and I felt it was a lose lose condition. After the surgery my family and friends have been wonderful. Sometimes I wondered if I had told too many people about it. There are times I feel as though I am on display. I just smile.

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

My employer shared some surprize that I qualified because he did not think I was that heavy. I am in education, I have the summer off and it worked out perfectly.

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

It was very exciting and I was glad I attended

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

My stay at the hospital was interesting. I was there for 3 nights. Bring chap stick, walking shoes, decent robe, and a positive fearless attitude.

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 was eleated, felt as though I had won a great prize. I coped with any anxiety by blogging here on O.H., and reading many other's blogs.

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

My first few weeks were slow. I was tired but not exhausted. I was able to go on walks, and keep a normal sleep schedule. As my eating progressed there was a lot of gas and quick trips to the restroom. Great patience with one's self.

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

100 miles one way. I went to my daughter's for aftercare, best choice for me.

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.

The main food I notice I have to be mindful of is solid protiens. Many are richer than we realize. They must be lowfat and chewed thouroughly in small bites. My tastebuds are also more sensitive to sweet tasing things. Even drinking too big of a gulp of liquid can feel like you have lead stuck in your upper chest.

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

Medium, walking mostly.

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

I take a bariatric complete chewable vitamin twice a 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?

Heavier protiens sticking in my pouch.

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

Food sticking when I ate too fast. Bad gas.

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

I attend a bariatric support group twice a month and have met with the psychologist who helps lead it a few times. If I need an appointment it's not a problem.

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

I have 5 mini scars. They are small and did not bother me.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

None yet.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

They seem to be watching me, I feel as though I am on display. If they are not a close friend I do not discuss my surgery with them.