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

About 3 years ago a friend of a close friend had the surgery. I heard through my friend the changes her friend was encountering. It took me 2 years to get up the nerve to even consider the possibility of the surgery. Then about 7 months ago I started researching the process. Small miracles began to happen. I was encountering women weekly who had had the surgery( I wasn't seeking them out they just appeared at stores, work, you name it). I began to think this was for me. Then Tracey, an aquaintance from 7/11, had had the surgery. the weight melted off her. I knew then that this was the answer. I've never been afraid of the process. I have been enthralled with it. It is like a college course that I get to research and find as much as I can on. It's been an incredible journey.

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

I kept thinking that I really wasn't fat. That I wouldn't qualify. For some reason I wasn't a good candidate. I found my doctor and in a day I qualified. Advice: My husband said it best: If this isn't the avenue for you then that just means there is another avenue out there. But remember you must turn over every rock and move mountains sometimes to find out what is best for yourself. This gave me an out. I knew that I had to do my part, work hard to get approved ( if necessary) and if it didn't happen then I had to reevaluate my journey. I am greatful that I was able to get approval the first time. THere are folks out there who have to fight a bit harder for approval--I think it's worth it...Just know when you've exhausted all possibilities.

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

My first visit was informative. I think going in with a list of questions ( I had 52!!!!) is an empowering move on anyone's part. I did lots of internet research and lots of interviews with people. I had concerns and questions that some people hadn't ever addressed. It was important for me to know I had exhausted all the concerns in that first consultation. I found this to give me great comfort.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I knew that this was my only option. After counselling, weight watchers 6 different times, and attempts to try to exercise at 320 lbs. I knew that my path would have to be drastic. I want to change my eating habits. I want a new life that is life changing. I now know that I have to do this drastic step because my physical life is in a drastic spot. I am worth the effort.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I talked to tons of people. Laprascopic surgery kept coming up as the way to go...I am a school teacher and I don't want to be away from my kids any longer than I need to be. Besides I get antsy when I have to sit for long periods of time. Depression sets in and I really want to get on with life ASAP. It is least intrusive and least recovery time. What's not to love?

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 have extreme fears, not of dying so much, but of leaving my husband behind. He is more afraid of me dying than I am. If death happens, that is totally out of my control. I trust that I am supposed to have this surgery. I have been prayerful the whole way through and have seen no red flags( yet). I know to continue living like this is a slow and painful death anyway. Honestly, my biggest fear is that the surgery won't work. This is fear talking, because when I get down to it faith has to play into this whole process. I have to believe that I am not so special that I'll be the one this process doesn't work for. I have only seen success, why would I be any different.......then fear creeps back in. If there are those out there with fears of dying or of leaving loved ones or believe this surgery won't be the answer: pray and talk to others. People who have had this surgery are incredible sources of strength.

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 tell everyone I am going to do this. My husband is the only one who has voiced concern. Most of my friends just want to be updated and kept informed. I am so lucky to have surrounded myself with friends who love who I am and just want the best for me.

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

Dr. Harkins, my supervisor, is so supportive. She just wants me healthy and serene. She has always seen my potential professionally and sees this step as just a small piece of the puzzle as to who I am. She is a love.

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

I was in the hospital from Thursday to Saturday morning. The most important things to bring are a positive attitude and a humble spirit. The hospital I stayed in provided sleepwear and socks. I didn't have the ability to take a shower or to wash my hair. I really just needed lots of love and understanding. This hospital was wonderful for those needs. Be sure to wear something large and unfitted the day you go home....

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

The only complications I had were the huge desire for not having a dry mouth. We can't have anything, including water, in our systems until the x-ray. I was so dry and cranky until that moment. Make sure they get you in for the barium xray as early as possible on day two. You will want to have sponge water as soon as possible. I also had a diareha incident the day I was to leave the hospital. I needed a nurse to clean me up and I needed to be humble enough to allow that.

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 had a great support system when I got home. There were 3 women who had had the surgery before me and knew the problems I would encounter. I met them through this site. Get a support system. I promise my crazy attitude was softened just by talking to them. I can tell you that sleeping in bed with that drain tube was difficult. I was in constant pain until it came out.

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

I go to counselling with a great therapist. I think it is essential to get some help after the process. I still have the same eating problems, I just don't have the outlet because I can't eat. I talk them over with her and find ways to work out my stress. She is a Godsend and one that I hope all of us can take part in. It isn't just about losing weight, but figuring out why we overeat to begin with.

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

You know, I was fat for a long time and never intended to let anyone other than my husband see me naked anyway. I have 2 scars that are about 1 inch long and 1/2 millimeter wide. The other 3 scars are blips on my body. I really don't care about that aspect. I see them as positive "battle" scars for a positive new lifestyle.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I am 42 years young and plateau about every 10 lbs. At first I thought I was the only person this surgery wouldn't work for. Now I realize that about every 10 lbs my body needs a rest and it takes it. Then I'll have a sudden weight loss and a rest. I realize that I am doing all I'm supposed to do to lose the weight and my body is in charge now. I am along for the ride. To realize my part in all of this and what I am in control of really helps me not beat myself up--most days.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Not really. I do have a couple of women in my world that like to comment negatively on my weight loss by saying: " Look at you Skinny Minnie" and "I see an improvement this week, you must be doing a good job". It is done with fear from them so I don't take it personally. I haven't lost enough for most people to see a difference yet. It's been 68 lbs and I need 90 more for my goal.