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

I found out about the surgery thru a friend. I was scared at first. But the more and more info I got on it, I knew this was something I had to do.

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

I really didn't have any problems with getting the insurance approval. The surgeons office handled everyting for me.

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

I was very nervous at my first visit. But Dr Steward made me feel very comforable. I would have your list of questions wrote down on paper. Because if your like me you'll forget to ask them. LOL

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I think before I even met with the doctor I already knew this was what I wanted to do. But my kids were my main reason for having the surgery. I wanted to give them the mom they needed.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

Dr Steward only did the one proceedure. RNY.

How did your family and friends react to your decision? Would you have communicated anything differently if you could now? How supportive were they after your surgery?

My family and friends were very supportive. They asked alot of questions, but that's about it.

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

I was in the hospital for 2 days. Went in on Thursday was home on Saturday. I really don't remember much of the first 2 days, (Thursday and Friday) but Saturday I had a nice time in the hospital. The nurses and doctors were wonderful. I brought a book to read and some cross stitching to do, but didn't do either. LOL. I also brought a calling card.

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

No 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?

Ummm well I got my surgery date 2 weeks before I had the actual surgery. So I really didn't have much time to deal with anxiety. I was just trying to get everything done that needed to be done before I had the surgery.

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

The first few weeks were slow. Everything, including me, were slow. It took time to get out of bed, to get dress, and to take an shower. Also it was hard to know what I could eat and drink.

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

I traveled about 45 miles. Fort Riley Kansas to Topeka Kansas.

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

The first few weeks I was tired. But around week 3 I started getting my enegry back in full force.

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

I'm taking an chewable multi-vitamin.

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

I attend the support group meetings in Topeka and now we have an support group in Fort Riley too. I've also have alot of friends that are having and have had the surgery.

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

I have 6 small scars. Their not that bad, they do itch since they are still healing.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I was on an plateau for 3 weeks. It was very hard, but I made it thru it. Just don't blame yourself. Your body has to have the chance to catch up with all the weight lost your going thru. Be patient.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Everyone keeps telling me how great I look. I have had no negative feedback yet.