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

I have a friend who had a sister that did it and right away I started looking into it. I figured I should since I've tried everything else. I trust the Medical proffesionals and feel they do everything for a reason, so I was never scared to get WLS.

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

It was not easy being in the Hospital while trying to recover, I would have rather been miserable at home. I was in the Hospital for 4 days. I wish I would have brought some chapstick!

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

I was very lucky and had no problems other than what was expected.

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 waited a long time to get a scheduled Surgery date and I was just so happy to be able to say "I'm doing this and I'm going to be thin". I was never scared, just really excited and nervous, but when you don't know what to expect it does make it easier.

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

I have only gotten support from www.obesityhelp.com and I'm so glad I found it because it has been a life saver for me. I am lost for words when I think about trying to say Thank You to everyone on this web site, they have been my WLS guide through the thick and thin. I could never say Thank You enough!

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

My scar is brest bone to belly button, about 7 inches long. It is looking really good now, I expected alot worse and im not ashamed of it at all.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

After my 6th month I started hitting plateaus and now im at a stop. When I hit the couple plateaus, I just decresed fattening food intake and exercised more.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Oh ya, some close family and friends are jealous and trying to make sure they are ahead of my weight and others that were never friendly or close to me are now trying to be my best friend. I just keep being who I was and only choose those that see me for me and not weight.