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

I went to a doctor at U Mass Medical because of severe back pain. I was hoping he could do something to help aleivate the pain but because of my size he wouldn't do surgery on me. I told him about my battles with my weight and he told me about the bariatric surgery and surgeon. I was really scared at first but even with all the problems I have encountered it was still the best thing I ever could have done.

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

I went in and had my surgery on 2/23/2000 and came home on 2/27. Unfortunately the hospital I had my surgery in didn't have bariatric beds in it and the worst part was the fact that the beds were so uncomfortable. I brought way more than I needed with me. They pretty much supplied me with most of my needs. I did bring a robe and trial size shampoo, deodorant, and powder. They provided pretty much anything else I needed.

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

I made it through the surgery fine. I did have severe gas pains for a number of days. I had my surgery done laproscopically and they have to use more gas during that procedure. I walked the floor for days with gas pains. After 3 weeks I was supposed to start eating soft foods. I wasn't able to actually eat and keep things down until I went back in for a dilation procedure at 9 weeks post op. I had to go back in again 1 month later for the same problem.

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 got approved by my insurance rather quickly but then before the doctor could perform surgery they changed insurance companies and I had to start all over again. Luckily I kept focused on what I truly beleived would be positive aspects from the surgery and it helped me cope with things.

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

The support group I belong to is over 2 hours from my home and I try to never miss a group. All of the people in the group have had surgery with the same doctor and it is a very open forum so you feel comfortable talking. The surgeon, nutritionist and behavioral health psychologist are at every meeting. I think this is one of the most important peices to the whole puzzle and helps with your coping skills

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

I had 5 incisions the largest about 2 inches. 2 of them are gone almost completely and the other 3 are trying to fade but are about the size of a nickle.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I had so many complications with eating for so long that I lost quite rapidly. I haven't been eating regular food for quite some time so I really haven't had to deal with many plateaus so far.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

With more respect and almost adoration because of my being strong enough to stick right with everything even through all the complications. They are very supportive and complimentary.