Donna P.

Obesity & Me

Describe your behavioral and emotional battle with weight control before learning about bariatric surgery.

I have spent the majority of my life battlingmy weight. I have tried every diet known and lost a few pounds here, a lot of pounds there only to regain them plus many more. When I was 29, I gave up that fight. I blossomed in weight from 150-200 in just a few months. I hurt inside listening to the comments and "advice" from others on how I could lose weight if I only "wanted to" or would just "stop eating'. In 2000, my sister had VBG and I watched her lose weight and her life seemed so much happier. She was able to do things with ehr girls she never was able to do before. I wanted that. I needed that. Then, in 2000 I became Type Two Diabetic, my blood pressure went up and I hurt all the time. I knew I had to do something. My Dr. suggested bariatric surgery and I went to see the surgeon.

What was (is) the worst thing about being overweight?

The worst thing about being overweight was not being able to be the mother and wife my family deserved. I couldn't go on walks with htem. I couldn't get down and play. If I did get down, well, it took everyone and everything to get me up!

If you have had weight loss surgery already, what things do you most enjoy doing now that you weren't able to do before?

I can wear my wedding rings again! My clothes are getting looser and I can see a light at the end of my tunnel! Walking is easier already.

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

When my sister had bariatric surgery, I was happy for her. I never thought I would be having it 1 1/2 years later. I started researching it and found all the benefits I could reep as well as the risks.

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

I went into the hospital on October 9th and stayed until October 14th. The 12th-14th was mainly precausionary, but I didn't mind. I suggest to bring socks, chapstick, something to read and for the women out there....bring some female "personal" items you might need...as I did postop day 4 (it can happen).

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

I didn't have any complications at all.

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 am two weeks post op and the one thing I really want is the staples OUT! I have had a few bouts of sadness and crying. At these times, I talk to my mom or sister. When my husband is home, I talk and spend time with him. The rest of my time is spent withmy four children reminding me what all I have to be thankful for!

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

I have my Dr. support group online all the time and in person the first of each month.I have my family who (most) have been very supportive. It has been very important to have the support of my family and friends. I have lost one friend, as she cannot support me in this surgery and has cut ties with me.

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

I have a scar from my breast bone to just below my naval. It is clean and healing smoothly. It looks like someone took a pen and drew a line down my abdomen other than the area where the staples were. I think that area will go away. I expected a much worse scar.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

N/A at this time.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

No one treats me differently other than the fact that I had surgery and still get tired easliy. My childrena dn husband have been taking good care of me and the housework.
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