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

Heard about it on tv, asked my local doctor what he thought. I was ready for it. Never really gave it much thought, just wanted it done to feel better.

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

My hospital stay was a good one, got the care I needed. I was there for two weeks due to breathing and fluid problems not related to surgery. I was too sick to be worried about my appearance.

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

I had no surgical 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?

After coming home I was still very weak and ill and had to have visiting nurses come in and had a helper at home to fix meals and help bathe me. I also had to have physical therapy to get me moving again.

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

The only support I get is on the computer at GBIC. This is very important. I wish I had known about these sites prior to surgery. I wish there was a support group in my area. I know there are people here who have had the surgery but don't know any names.

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

My scar is about 5-6 inches long, never had a problem with it. When I have my TT it will be redone according to my doctor.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I am 15 months post op and have now hit my plateau. I have difficulty drinking 64 oz of water a day because I'm not thirsty all the time.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Absolutely. Get a lot of positive comments about how I look now.