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

I first found out about this surgery from a girl I worked with back in 1997. I thought it was extreme, too dangerous, and an "easy way out"

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

My first visit with the surgeon was wonderful!! First, I walked up to the check-in window an see a huge print of a surgeon in prayer!! Then, further down the wall was President Washington kneeling beside his horse in prayer - talk about making me feel at ease! My surgeon's nurse saw me first, she is five years post op. What a nice informative person she was. The surgeon was extremely professional (very important to me) and compassionate. I was confident I was in very capable, experienced hands.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

After losing 47 pounds just to gain 70 back, I started having knee pains that kept me from doing any activity long term. Standing at the sink washing dishes hurt my back - and I had enough. I've fought this battle for almost 15 years, and I didn't want to spend the rest of my life in pain and immobile. I'm only 34, spent my 20's obese, and refuse to allow it to take over the rest of my life. I deserve better and so do my children!!

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I decided to have the RNY because it is the "gold standard" and the preferred surgery of my surgeon. Since he's done 600, I felt it was the best choice. :O) I also wanted it done laproscopicly because it is the least invasive and has the smallest risk of infection, plus recovery time is faster.

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

I stayed in the hospital for 2 1/2 days. Unfortunately, I was really uncomfortable only because of the bed and the leg shunts I had to wear. I could only sleep on my back, and I became a bit of a grump. The staff was kind, though!! The most important thing to bring was personal hygeine items. I did not use the magazine, book, or anything else.

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

I did not have any complications at all. I feel really blessed!

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 excited!! I knew that my day to change my life was finally coming and I couldn't wait! Because I prayed about this beforehand, I felt no anxiety at all. :O)

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

The aftercare/support group program I have has just started up here in Crescent City. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to attend one yet. However, I am eternally grateful for this website, my questions are always answered and I'm even able to answer questions now!

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

My scars are teeny! They are still a bit purply-red, and is what I expected. I've bought Mederma and if I can only remember to use it, I know my scars will minimize.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I've just recently came off of a plateau that lasted about 3-4 weeks. I was still losing weight, but only at a rate of 2 pounds a week, vs. 4-5 lbs. when I first started. I started exercising and after 2 weeks of that, my weight started coming off again more rapidly.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

I DEFINITELY notice people treating me differently now. It is amazing how much nicer folks are when you aren't as heavy. People even look at me and smile!