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

Secretely - Of course. Late at night all alone with my computer. I never felt I could talk to anyone about it because I was so obese and could not make it go away.

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

I Checked in on a Tuesday Morning. I was treated like Royalty. Given the grand tour, shown my room. It even had a Murphy Bed in it where my wife could stay with me for all the nights I was in the hospital!! Great staff. They had some problems putting in my IV before surgery and the nures, DEB, Bless her, turned it over to another nurse because she did not want to hurt me. Caring at the highest level.

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

None whatsovever. Of course you have to follow exactly what the MD and Nursing staff tell you. DO not over drink your fluids. Sip, Sip, Sip!!!!!

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 imediately felt like I did something wqring... This is typical. I had not told my sisters or freidns about the surgery. I did tell my work and people there were supportive. My parents are passed away so I had two sisters left in the world and I did not tell them "On Purpose," because I didn't want negativity. I talked with my wife, several close friends and mantianed Phonconversations with my MD office staff.

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

I have a wonderful and caring therapist and my internet friends. My wife is my greatest support. Currently she is working on her insurance to have the same operation.

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

I have two 1 1/2 inch scars midline above my belly button. (all Hairlines) I have Three small puncture scars and a puncture scar where the drain plug was left in. No Appreciable scarring is noticeable at any one of the sight. No infections and no problems.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

My boss came to visit one week to the day after my surgery and she said, "Your face looks thin, this is really working." No one has ever told me my face looked thin. This is 7 days, what will happen in two weeks.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

I treat me differently. That is the main one I needed.