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

I saw people who had it done and couldn't believe the changes in them. I wanted it done but knew I couldn't afford it. When it became apparent I was never going to do it by myself I started looking in to the possibilities.

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

I was in Doctors Hospital in Shreveport, La. They were the very best. They were so concerned with every aspect of my comfort and recovery. I got the very best attention and encourgement from the entire staff. SOme of them had had the surgery themselves and were an inspiration.

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

I haad a saroma at the surgery site. It did quite extensive draining for a long period of time and was aggravating but not threatining in any way. My surgeon and his staff were very helpful in explaining how to care for it. No other 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?

I was so ready for this and knew that it was my last chance and answer to my prayers. I was somewhat apprehensive , but I had a very positive attitude.

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

I was tired at first, but in very little dicomfort. Changing my habits and watching what I was doing was the most important. I started to feel better almost immediatly. I had so much support from my family and friends. I was somewhat emotional the first couple of weeks but when I could start getting out more and more that helped alot.

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

about 75 miles. I had to stay an extra day in the hospital. I was having a little trouble with oxygen levels but it did not affect me much. My surgeon was just being careful becuase I did live some distance away.

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 was on clear liquids for the first 3 days. Then to full liquids. Cream soups etc. Graduated to some soft foods after 3 weeks like cottage cheese, crackers etc. After 6 weeks I could eat most everything but learned very quickly that I had become lactose intolerant. Had constant diahreah. after 7 mnths I am still intolerant. Do well on most things. I can't tolerate much bread. No tough meats. No fats. I do very well with salad and alot of the vegetables but some make me have gas very bad.

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

My energy level started improving almost immediately. I can't believe myself now. I feel at least 15 years younger.

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

I take 2,000 mg. of Calcium (citrate) every day. 2 one a day vitamins with iron and B12 (sublingual). So far all of my labs are great

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?

I had some vomiting. but it was always my fault for eating too fast or not chewing well. I have had 2 dumping episodes. both after eating out because of high fat content . Lost hair by the handfuls starting aboout 4 mnths out but it has stopped and is regrowing.

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

This has been such a positive experience for me. Sometimes I felt sort of left out but I think it is important to continue with all your activities and jus adjust you eating habits to your lifestyle.

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

My support comes mainly from internet support groups where I can read what everyone else is going through.

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

It is pretty bad but also a reminder of a great gift to me. Im not into bikinis so it really doesn't affect me. Ive been married for over 30 years so it doesn't affect my husband either.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have them occaionally. At first they scared me to death. Now I expect them and don't worry much about them I try to keep alot of protein in my diet . When they break it seems like I lose alot very quickly .I may go nearly 2 to 3 weeks and only lose a pound or two then bam!! I get up one day and have lost 5 or 6.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

YES!! They do treat me differently. I have noticed that alot. People are alot friendlier to me and don't look at me with disgusted looks. All of my friends have been so encouraging.