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

I knew a little about it - but when my doctor suggested it 2 years ago - I was totally against it. Didn't think I was that desperate. So tried another diet - lost and gained it all back. Then I started doing the research on Gastric bypass and became a believer.

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 trouble getting Insurance coverage - but my advice is that YOU must follow up EVERY step of the way. If I had not continued to call at each piece of the process - it would have taken me years to get everything done that was needed (numerous tests, Psych evals, Nutritional needs, surgery dates, etc). Took me 5 months from start to finish.

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

I was ready for the surgery - felt like I had all my answers by then - but you need to bring a list of the questions you want answered - this may be your last/best chance to get them answered. Bring a list of your medications with you.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

Finally realized that I was going to be 45 and I was heavier than I'd ever been and was getting more co-morbidities (diabetes, hypertension, high blood pressure). I was miserable constantly. I took on raising my nephew (got him at 5 - he's now 8 - and I couldn't do much with him.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

People at work that I had talked to said it was the best. All my research showed that it had the best LONG TERM loss ratio (KEEPING the weight off).

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 went in with the attitude that I was going to be fine and that's how I came out. I believe positive attitude is definitely required. However, I did get a Will written out just in case.

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?

A few were against the idea - until I explained that being as heavy as I was was much more dangerous then having the surgery. All were on my side by the time the date arrived.

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

My employers were very encouraging. Totally supportive. I told them everything - I'm telling EVERYONE everything because I am so excited about the process. I was out of work for 6 weeks.

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

I stay was great. I had a private room off the beaten path so it was quiet. The nurses were great. I was there for 3 days. Need to bring slippers, chapstick, robe, brush, toothbrush, shampoo, soap, and comfortable clothes to go home in.

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

None.

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 dancing in the streets and so excited. Very little anxiety. I had done my research and I was READY.

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

I had no complications - so 5 days after the surgery - there was nothing I couldn't do except lifting over 15 pounds. I had 5.5 weeks of leave time left and enjoyed every minute. It was a definitely a learning experience on what I could eat - the best vitamins to take - getting in my protein drinks, and my water while waiting 30 minutes before and after eating to be able to drink anything. My life revolves around the clock now while I try to make sure to get enough protein, enough water, enough calories to avoid any problems.

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

120 miles. I had to stay in a hotel the night before and for 3 days after to be near the doctor. The first month checkup - I had to drive back the 120 miles - however, future checkups can be done about 50 miles from home. If I were to have any complications, I would have to travel the 120 again - but it would be worth it.

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.

I have had problem with chicken and some fish. I have a hard time eating small bites and slowly - so I get pain or vomiting if I'm not careful with many foods. It's only been 2 months so far - and my tolerance is getting better each week.

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

I did 2-3 miles of walking the first 4 weeks - then I started adding in an eliptical machine. At 7 weeks out - I joined a gym to be able to begin weight lifting and taking aerobic type classes.

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

(2) multi-vitamins daily. (1) Calcium Citrate and (1) Calcium with Magnesium and Zinc daily, B-12 sublingual once a week. Actigall (because I still have my Gall Bladder - take after first month - 2 a day for 6 months. I had to take Protonix to avoid acid reflux for 1 month. I just started taking iron and zinc. I take 1 Biotin capsule to help avoid hair loss.

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've only had a little nausea and vomiting - mostly gone by 2 months out. Haven't experienced the hair loss yet - most say it occurs around month 3-7. I'm notlooking forward to that.

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

The FEAR of what might happen was worse then the actual process. However, having to go through so many steps to have it done and having to push each step of the way was probably the worst thing for me so far. I do have a fear about the excess skin and the plastic surgery that may be required.

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

I will be starting a support group in Pasadena, Ca. in June. Only meets once a month and not on a good day for me. However, I have been LIVING on ObesityHelp.com support boards - it has been very helpful and informative.

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

I only have 5 small scars from laporascopic and they are already fading. Not bad at all.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have been losing MUCH slower then I expected and much slower than many other people. I lose 2 pounds and then stay at that weight for 7-10 days, then 2 pounds and stay..... I have only lost 30 pounds in 2 months and I expected more with 150 pounds to lose and eating so little while exercising and drinking all my water. Everyone tells me it will speed up and add up - but I expected to be down at least 40 pounds by now. However, I'm also hoping that since I am losing slower - my skin will have time to catch up and I might not need plastic surgery.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Not yet. Only down 30 pounds.