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

I had heard commercials on the radio by Carnie Wilson and how it changed her life. Then a good friend of mine (and motorcycle riding buddy) announced she was going in for the surgery. I visited her in the hospital, and at home. I started following her progress as well as her "rough" spots and I started going to the support meetings. That was when I decided to make the move and do it for myself.

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

My surgeon's office handled everything! I have no idea what was involved.

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

My first meeting was actually with the surgeon's staff. They helped me complete questionnaires and they took all vital information. The second meeting was with the surgeon himself. He answered all questions I had and put me at ease. People can get the most out of this meeting with their surgeon if they are prepared - bring questions you may have. Know ahead of time what it is you want.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I wanted to be around to see my grandchildren grow up. Once I started talking to people at the support meetings I realized that this was the step I needed to take to improve the quality of my life. It is the best decision I ever made - I am in control of my life now. Plus watching my good friend as she shed pound after pound was a good incentive!

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

My stay in the hospital was pleasant. The staff at South Nassau Community Hospital in Oceanside, New York are the best! I was supposed to stay 4 days, but because of a fever and the start of pneumonia, I stayed an extra day. It is extremely important to get up and walk as much as you can. Make sure you use the "spirometer" to keep your lungs open.

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

The only complication I had was that my IV infiltrated and my arm was swollen. 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 had no anxiety. I went into this with a good attitude. I knew that if I didn't so something for my health, my family would be writing my obituary rather than me writing on this website.

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

The hospital where my surgery was performed has a once a month support group. I think it is important to continue to go to these meetings even as my post op time gets more and more. I learn from people who had the surgery before me and I can help those who are contemplating it now.

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

Scar?? What scar? I have 5 little tiny marks. Heck, the scar from 1979 from gall bladder surgery looks like a road map! Where was laproscopic surgery back then!

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I continued to lose weight through the 6th month. By then I was able to eat a bigger variety of food. I only lost 5 pounds in the past 3 months and at this point not sure if I will lose anymore!

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes. Its funny. I'm the same person inside that I always was. This society of ours places too much emphasis on size. People don't take the time to discover the real person. Now especially, men who wouldn't ask me out are falling over themselves. Oh well, you had your chance! I did this for health reasons. The side effect of weight loss is something I can definitely live with.