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

By people who had had the surgery. My endocrinologist suggested it for several years but I was against it. Then one day I thought this could be what saves me. And it has.

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

I was there only overnight. Because I work at the hospital where I had the surgery I was given a special room. The worst part was having to get up to go to the bathroom every 1 1/2 hours because of the IV. The most important thing to bring is your positive support system. My husband was there all day waiting for me.

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

No complications.

In the weeks after you got your surgery date, how did you feel? How did you cope with any anxiety you might have felt?

We went to Hawaii 2 weeks after my surgery. I felt good. Anxiety - still have that sometimes. But I have to remember I don't have high blood sugar anymore and that was my goal. So I've met it.

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

Try to keep your mind active, and your body too if you can. That will help you not to obsess about what you can't eat. Try and drink alot of fluids.

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

45 minutes 1 way. I work in the town where the hospital is so am there everyday.

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 still haven't eaten read meat. I used to be a big chocolate eater. I had 5 M&M's one day and they tasted like dirt. (YES) I miss having salad but am adding alittle back into my daily eating. Off-limits? Alcohol so far.

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

There is a support group in Santa Barbara. I haven't been able to attend yet, but plan to this month. I have a strong network of friends who are supporting me and one who is contemplating having the surgery herself.

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

I have 5 little pink scars that fade more everyday.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

My plateaus have been shortlived. Only lasting 2 or 3 days.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

People do look at my differently, but I think it is because I am happier and have more self-esteem than before.