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

I went into to my primary family Doctor, and told her I was going on the diet of my life. I explained I feel motivated, ready, and have a plan for the loss. I wanted to use her for accountability. Plus, I wanted to be sure the Atkins diet did not decrease my lifespan...my goal in dieting to begin with(increase my years) AND BE HEALTHY, AND PHYSICALLY FIT. She asked me if I have ever considered WLS. That is where it all began! She planted that little seed that germinated over 7 months.

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

He was attentive, and wanted to know that I understood what I was asking for in asking to be a WLS candidate. He answered my questions, and evaluated the progress I had made in getting through the required "Hoops". He assured me I would be a good candidate. No existing Co-morbidities. Just developing ones.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

My decision was made after researching the topic, and realizing this option IS for me. I always thought it was for people who couldn't loose weight. I coould loose it, just couldn't keep it off. Strong family history of HTN, DM type 2, stroke, cancer, &CAD. My blood pressure is creeping up with my weight, and my insulin sensitivity/ resistance was worse than ever- actually giving me symptoms.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

That was strictly up to the surgion's recommendation.

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 was most concerned about leakage of the anastimosis sites. This can lead to sepsis, and death. I sure do not want to die, but I gave this to God, and prayed for the surgical team's competancy, and ability. There is little to do with our fears. The fears do not help prevent what we are afraid of, but the Lord can, and will act on our behalf if we enter into this with the child-like faith that the Lord desires from us. A true test of faith -to be sure!

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?

Family was very supportive. They wanted information, and details. Which I forwarded via e-mail tthem. Friends were generally supportive, but I excused myself from the negative reactions I recieved from some. Some asked why!? You have such a pretty face; Oh, boy, don't get me started down that road! I had a blanket reply, and added more details to those I thought realy cared. Some even stayed correct on my count-down days! Absolutely everyone has been super-supportive since my surgery. I've had countless phone calls, well wishers, and even an organized effort from my co-workers to feed my family for a week ater I got home from the hospital.

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

I am just one week out.. My employer is excited about my efforts. She had commended me on my efforts to jump through the insurance hoops, and keep an excellent attitude right up until the surgical date. My yearly evaluation was completed just prior to surgery. I plan to take 4-6 weeks off.

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

The staff was very attentive, except one male RN in ICU. I spoke to the WLS support staff through tears about his insensitivities. She spoke to him, and the charge RN. He became quite concerned, and changed his approach with me. All other staff was very supportive, and encouraging. One of the night RN's said he was impressed that I was up at 0330 on my 2nd night after surgery walking. His opinion was that I was recovering faster than anyone he has seen in some time. Went from surgery to ICU- was in ICU x 26 hours, then transfered to a surgical ward. Bring a robe to walk in the halls, slippers that won't slip in the floor, hand cream, and your great attitude!

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 did have concerns, but I used my faith to pray them away. afterall, the things I had concerns about, I had absolutely no control over. The concerns were buried to a level that I mainly discussed with my closest friends, and husband. The overwhelming feeling I had was of excitement. I felt like a child awaiting Christmas morning.

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

20 miles No effect

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

The light-headedness. The understanding that I needed to take it easy. The hills, and valleys of energy

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

Monthly support group through the hospital. Very important to me prior to surgery.

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

I am pleased by the relative smallness of the scars I am left with. I dont plan to have any further aesthetic surgery. No plastics, no removal of scars

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I changed jobs 2 yrs after the surgery from an active on my feet job, to an absloutely sedentary job. There has been some wt gain, and I combat that by 3-5 days/wk @ slim and Tone workouts. Also, my dad died just after that 2 yr mark. I plan to take the next 4 months to actively loose what I have gained. My goal is 141#- 1/2 my presurgery wt....I know with everything else I have done in my life, I can do this as well!

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

ABSOLUTELY... I like it but it also makes me mad sometimes that fat people are truely discriminated against, and society accepts these assumptions.