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

I found out a couple of years ago from a friend of my that had the surgery done. I was scared at first. I done a lot of research on the surgery.

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

My stay in the hospital wasn't to good. My surgery lasted 6 and 1/2 hours, should have been only 2 hours, I had a lot of scar tissue covering my intestines. The Doctor almost didn't do the procedure because he was having trouble finding enough intestine to do the procedure. But I got it done and glad to have it. I was in the hospital for 5 days. Just bring your prayers.

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

See the above statement.

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 really getting afraid to have it done. But I put my faith in the Lord and my Doctor. I new that I needed the surgery to help me in so many ways. I wasn't happy with myself or anyone else either. Now I feel I have a new lease on life.

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

There is a group that meets in Jonesboro, Arkansas, which is about 50 miles from where I live. I am trying to get a group started here. The meeting was very helpful. You learn what things are working for some and not for others.

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

My scar is more than what most people would have. It is from breast bone and past my belly button. No that isn't what I expected.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have had one plateau since surgery on June 21st, 2004. I was scared that I was doing something wrong. But a couple of days passed and so went the weight.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

No, not yet. I am sure as I go along I will notice more.