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

My PCP first talked to me about it. My intial impression was -yeah right! But then after learning more about it - I realized this type of surgery was for me.

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

The only lag time (8mo) was due to the Surgeon was new to the area & had to be added to the 'network'. Be patient - if it's meant to happen it will; however, seek out all resources as thoroughly as possible.

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

It was like a blur- I was nervouse and had so many questions, I forgot mostly all. Write down any questions or concerns you may have.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

Well, I had been single for 10yrs and my daughter was starting to fall into the same eating patterns I had. Kids can be cruel & I realized if I didn't do something about myself-she would eventually continue & grow to be an obese adult. I believe 10yrs alone was enough-but I didn't have the courage with my current body to be available to anyone. I know people say -if he loves you -he will love you anyway you are-but how could someone love me if I didn't love myself.

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

My first time in, for the RNY surgery was good. I was in for four days. I was surprised to learn that the majority of my nurses had had the surgery and looke great. This was a motivation and a reassurance to all my doubts. the most important things to bring are lotion, hair products. I brought a robe (paid $70 for a size that fit) -but the hospital had nice gowns.

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

Yes, on my week follow up, the doctor noted that I was dehydrated but told me this is typical but to keep pushing the liquids. The next week, I knew I hadn't been keeping practically anything down, so I called the doctor-he referred me to Urgent Care where I was administered two bags of IV and prescribed Zofran. The next week at my follow up on Monday, the doctor noted that I was still dehydrated & prescribed Reglan. I did good on Tuesday day, but by Wednesday early morning I was in excruciating pain. The doctor referred me to the Hospital were I was admitted for xrays and tests. I was told @ 12 I was to have surger y as somehow my intestines had gotten 'knotted up' and there was evidence of a hernia. I had a 3hr long surgery. I was in the hospital for 5 days that time. I became depressed but by the end of the following week was feeling soo much better I decided to return to work.

In the weeks after you got your surgery date, how did you feel? How did you cope with any anxiety you might have felt?

Today, I am feeling better-compared to after the first surgery. I feel normal-which is scary knowing that I am now 'different'. Anxiety-I coped by talking about my weight problem for the first time with those closest to me. I felt this was important so that they could provide support without feeling sorry for me- I was beginning to take control of my problem. I know that it is a long road with bumps and crossroads - but I know that my goal is to stay on track and keep up the work

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

the first few weeks for me were not all that bad even with my dehydration. I knew my child was taken care of by my sister. My mom cared for me, reminded me of my meds/vitamins, tried to get me to eat/drink. I slept alot with the pain meds given. People should expect only to care for yourself. Listen to your body. They should make necessary arrangements for household chores, children, bill paying and all other stuff prior to surgery. That way -afterwards they can focus on recovery.

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

Not far -it was in the same town where I live.

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 different as I wasn't even able to keep water down. But after my second surgery- I was at the soft food stage - I tolerated everything-Instant Breakfast Carnation, cottage cheese, mashed potatoes, mashed beans, soups, jello. I haven't experienced much with foods. I tolerate chicken well.

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

After the 2nd surgery, I am able to do mostly everything - when I'm motivated. I can walk six blocks with out huffing.

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

I take b-12, Pokeman vitamins twice a day, Tums 2-3x a day, Vitamin E, Iron, selenium (yuk!), Vitamin c

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?

Nausea/vomiting was due to my complications but were resolved after second surgery.

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

The complications. The catheter, JP Pratt

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

A support group is offered but I haven't gone. I still continue to see a therapist for my depression -this has been my savior.

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

I had two surgeries - the first-WLS I had 5 small scars, the second to correct complications- I had an additional 4 small scars.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

none yet

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes- but that is because I'm more open and confident now.