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

Co-workers at work had the RNY and had very good success with it. At first I was concerned and worried about their safety. Now, I have nothing but good things to say about having WLS.

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

DePaul healthcare center in St. Louis (Bridgton) was very professional and I have no compliants about the service I received and I'd reccommend this hospital to anyone. My room was ready and waiting for me before I was out of surgery. My husband was surprised and was able to carry everything into the room before I came out of the recovery room. The staff left a very good impression on me.

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

No, I didn't have any complications what so ever and I think that it's because I have such a great surgeon.

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 very nervous and I think writing letters to my husband and children helped me a great deal. I made plans for the "what if's" because I didn't want my husband to be stressed about details. I wanted my thoughts and wishes known to everyone so that there was no questions.

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

I am not activly going to any support meetings. I hope to someday be able to find a local group that holds monthly meetings. There are 5 ladies at work that have had the RNY WLS and we plan to start having a meeting every now and then.

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

My surgery was laprascopic and I have a total of 5 small incisions and then one incision that is slightly bigger on my left side. My scars are healing very nicely, and I think they'll get lighter as time goes by.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

Well, in my 1st week post-op I lost a total of -20 lbs and then at 4 weeks out my total weight loss was -25 lbs. Now, at 8 weeks post-op I have lost -30 lbs. I don't think I've actually had a plateau but, it sure feels like one. I've been told that a true plateau is having zero weight loss for a total of 4 weeks. I do feel like I should be losing faster but, then again 30 lbs in 8 weeks is nothing to sneeze at either.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes, a little...I have a lot of comments of how good I look and how much weight I have lost. I feel like people talk to me a lot more.