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

My best friend had the surgery 1 year prior to mine. I was very skeptical at first as I wasn't sure I wanted to make such a definite life change and in the meantime I kept adding on the pounds. As I saw her weight decrease mine continued to increase. So I started researching and here I am 2 months Post Op and I am feeling better everyday.

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

I was admitted to Ocala Regional Medical Center in Florida on 3/31/2004 and my surgery was performed within hours. I left the hospital about 24 hours after my surgery and began to return to a normal way of life. I went back to work in 10 days (including weekend). I think the most important thing to bring to the hospital is a comfortable robe and some good slippers so you can cruise around the hall. The more you walk, the sooner you get to go home. I had laparoscopic RNY. I also recommend taking a good chap stick or something similar as your mouth gets really dry and the only thing you get for 24 hours is crushed ice. AND boy does it taste good.

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

No complications at all.

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 actually had surgery within 2 weeks after receiving my surgery date. My surgeons office was informed that my insurance was going to begin not covering the procedure so they helped me accomplish my goal without any complications from the insurance company. I was very excited and nervous all at the same time. I really didn't lose it until I was in the surgery waiting area and the anesthesiologist came in and talked to me. Then it became real and I broke down. But in no time I was out like a light and awoke in recovery. Not alot of pain to speak of....

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

I have a local support group that is headed under the supervision of a different surgeon in my area. The people that attend are great, lots of valuable information and great friends. My surgeon is actually 3 hours from my home so I am not able to attend his support group. Someday I wish to travel there and attend at least one.

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

I had Laparoscopic RNY and have 5 small incisions and a drain hole. They are very small scars approx. 1/2" to 3/4" long and probably the largest scar is the one where the drain tube was. I will heal eventually as well.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I had about a week plateau at about the 5 week point. It passed within a week. I have currently lost 40 1/2 lbs in 8 1/2 weeks. WOO HOO!

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Only that they tell me they notice my weight loss. They say they can really see it in my face. I notice it in my pants as well as they are getting looser and I am beginning to wear some things that have hung in my closet for quite some time.