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

I met a girl at school who had the bypass. She was 317 pounds and now she is 140. She told me about it and it actually motivated me to find out about it and see if I qualified for it.

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

It took no time. I got a referrel from my PCM and 4 days later I was approved. It took me less than a month.

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

I was in the hopital for 1 day and it was quite wonderful. The staff was so nice and friendly. I was walking around 3 hours after I come from recovery. I did everything on my own.

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

I had no complication at all, maybe a little gas, but that is normal.

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 so nervous. I found myself at times asking myself, " Do you want to go through with this?" I was anxious and ready to get it over with. I had my surgery 1 week before my husband left and went overseas to Iraq.

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

When I got home I was a little sore, but I walked around as much as I could. I was quite comfortable until it was time to sip on diabetic boost and water.

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

I only had to go a mile or two to the hospital.

What was your actvity level in the days and weeks after surgery?

I didn't want to exercise, but I had to make that a priority. I walked everyday after that.

What vitamins and/or dietary supplements have you taken since your surgery?

I have to take daily vitamins. I take flinstones because the liquid vitamins are so nasty and they make me gag. Also, I eat a calcium chew and take zyrtec everyday.

What side effects (nausea, vomiting, sleep disturbace, dumping, hair loss etc.) were worse for you? For how long after surgery did they persist? How did you cope with them?

For the most part I vomited alot, because I was trying to eat a little more than I could take in. I still vomit sometimes but not often. It is very tiring and nasty. Please take in your protein because if not your hair will start to fall out.

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

Not being able to drink for a day. My mouth was so dry and I felt so sick.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes, everyone notice. So many people that knew me before always say I look good. My new nickname is "Slim".