Traci L.

Obesity & Me

Describe your behavioral and emotional battle with weight control before learning about bariatric surgery.

First, I have to say that it was really hard for me to admit that I was a complusive and emotional eater. I have 2 children and knew that I wanted to live to see them become adults and have their own children. My weight has played a big part in my insecurities in my life. I always felt like I had to "over-dress" to compensate for my size. People used to always say "You have such a pretty face." It used to hurt me when I'd go shopping with my friends, because I always had to go to the back of the store to the "Plus-Size" section. Anyone who has never had the problem really can't understand what it is to not be able to eat whatever you want whenever you want without gaining weight. Then, after so long, I reached a point where I didn't want to care anymore, but that's just not me. My problem was that I didn't have enough willpower to do it on my own. But, as I began to earn about Bariatric Surgery, I learned that it's okay to have some help. The sad part comes in when you don't get any help.

What was (is) the worst thing about being overweight?

The worst thing has been the lack of a good self-esteem. When my husband and I would go somewhere, I would always feel like he was looking at women who looked better than me. I would see women who were healthy and had a good physique and think why can't I look like them.

If you have had weight loss surgery already, what things do you most enjoy doing now that you weren't able to do before?

I'm not quite there yet, but one thing, I am enjoying getting outside and walking more. I want to learn to play tennis.

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

I first found out when Carnie Wilson had the surgery. I was curious, but not curious enough at the time. Then, when I saw her one day on TV and how good she looked, my curiousity was peaked. I began to research as much as I could on the internet. I investigated the different types of surgery that was available, the risks, etc. My first impression was great. I could really see how this could help alot of people in the world who battle weight.

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

My stay in the Krankenhaus Sachsenhausen in Frankfurt Germany was GREAT! The entire surgical staff of Prof. Weiner and all the nurses were great! I was there for 7 days total. The most important things to bring to this hospital was my toiletries. I brought towels and washcloths because I was told to do so. These items were made available, but maybe just not when you wanted them. So, I brought my own. I also took my own bottled water.

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

No, not really. I was sick after the surgery from the anesthesia, but after the first day, I never had anymore pain medications.

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 to excited to have any anxiety. I had researched this for so long, I was truly ready when I got my surgery date. To turn back wasn't an option for me. I knew that this was going to be the beginning of a new life for me.

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

We don't actually have one right now, but are trying to form one. There ae several women in this area who have had this surgery. We could all benefit from a group to discuss our challenges as well as our successes. Like I said if a person has never had this problem, there's only so much support that you can give to someone.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I haven't had one yet, but I know they're coming sooner or later. I'm ready for it. I know it's a temporary thing and I will get through it. Just like when you have the surgey and you have all the pain, you get through it!

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

No, and if they do and it's not for the good, I'll just pray for them. My body is changing, but my heart is still the same. I want the changes in me to always affect people in a positive way
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