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

My gynecologist recommended the surgery and gave me the name of Dr. Brathwait's CNP. My first impressioon was a hopeful one.

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

Have any questions or concerns written out and with you. Relax.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I want to have a life. I want to be able3 to leave the house. I would like to have less pain. I would so like to be able to walk and enjoy the seasons again. The older I got the harder it was. I would like to be more independent and like myself for a change.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

The pros and cons of each surgery were explained and I chose the roux-en- Y because of the success rate.

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 afraid of dying but in my mind I was not really living. I felt life was worth the risk.

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?

My family didn't want to talk about it much preop - I think out of fear. Post op however they have been absolutely wonderful. I am glad the way the journey has gone so far.

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

I had a positive experience in the hospital-no complications- care when I needed it. I had surgery on Wednesday am and went home Saturday am. Bring slippers you can just slide your foot in but snug enough so you don't trip in them. Bring loose fitting clothes to go home in.

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 kept up with physical therapy and the home excercises and attended suppport group meetings.

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

Expect a certain amount of fatigue. Feeling very full. The food plan was a little overwhelming at first but family help reduced the problem.

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

Stony Brook Medical Center in NY is only about 40 min from my home and was not a problem.

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.

Initially, just staying hydrated was difficult-I was told not to worry about protein at that point. As days go by it is easier and a more pleasant experience to eat. The only food I have had difficulty with is oatmeal.

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

After care support group is essential-there is no one else who can understand and help.

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

Yes, my incision was in the same place as a previous surgery so no surprises there. I had a light reaction to the staples with itching but cortisone cream (CNP recommended) helped alot.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

yes-men hold doors open-everyone smiles more-children seem more at ease