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

I first found out about this from a freind. Then went to my PC and talked to him about it.

Describe your experience with getting insurance approval for surgery. What advice, if any, do you have for other people in this stage?

At this time I have had no problem. I was approved before I started all of my tests.

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

My visit went very well. I was ready with questions. I think the beat thing for a person to do is read all the books that you can get. The books will answer alot of question and they will give you alot of information that you can ask questions about. I really got a lot of information this way.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

Talking to my doctor and not being able to lose the weight by myself. Also my activity was being limited more every day. I didn't like that at all.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I decided when I read the different books. I also have the attitude that if I'm going to go through this I want to go all the way first and not mess around about it. I want to get this weight off and I will do it. I want to be able to go places with my Grandchildren and have fun with them again. I hate having to rent carts or wheelchairs.

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 am not affraid cause I know my surgeon is good and he is very confedent also. I have chose a very good group and I am very satisfied with them. They are always there fore me.

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?

I am pre-op[ and my family feel they are supportive. They are just unknowledgaable about the surgery it self and what a person goes through before surgery. They feel that I am being stupid because I can lose the weight before the surgery so Why can't I do it without the surgery.

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

My stay was really okay. I was there for four days. I found that I wanted to get into my own night gown. Toothbrush & paste, brush and comb, a book to read and lots of patience.

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

No, I was in and out with no problems. It was not bad at all.

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 excited and the anxiety was horrible the last few days. I delt with it by keeping myself busy doing something all the time. This group is the best cause they will answer all of your questions and help you along the way.

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

My first couple of weeks have been bad due to the flu. But now I am slowly getting the hang of things and I want to do more then I should do. But, I am doing and eating most everything I want now.

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

I have a support group with Dr. Nair patients and it is really great. They are very important to me and I depend on them alot.

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

My scar is from my breast bone to my navel and It is not anything like I expected. It is very thin and not hardly sore at all.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have not had a plateau yet. I gained a pound whick really disturbed me.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

No, I have not had that privelege yet!! I can't weight till it happens though.