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

At first, I read about Carnie Wilson in People magazine. I wasn't really sure that I was willing to endure surgery, and I didn't know how safe it was. The more I checked into it, the more appealing it became. I'm glad that I finally went through with it.

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

BTC dealt with my insurance. The wait was the most difficult part.

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

My husband and I went in armed with questions. He answered every one of them. Dr. Viglianco was very nice and knowledgeable. Don't be shy. Voice your concerns.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I had tried everything else, and nothing had worked.

What fears did you have about having complications or even dying from from the surgery, and what would you tell other people having the same fears now?

I was a little worried, but I would have died without it.

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?

They were scared, but everyone was supportive.

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

I was in Bariatric Treatment Center of Ohio for 3 days and Mount Carmel for 2 days. I was transferred due to some minor complications, and then transferred back to BTC for the remainder of my stay. The staff at BTC was wonderful! They were very understanding and helpful in every way. I really didn't need anything but clothes to wear home. The hospital provided everything. I would recommend tongs to wipe personal areas. They really come in handy in the bathroom and the shower! The most important thing I can recommend is a supportive shoulder to cry on.

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

I had some complications with the anesthesia and was transferred to another hospital for 2 days. Everything turned out fine.

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 didn't have much anxiety. I was just excited!

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

At first, I was a little depressed because I felt bad and was in some pain. After the first week, I was much more upbeat. I began losing weight, and people began telling me that they could tell. Expect to have trouble eating and to be in some pain. Just remember that it is all worth it!

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

I had to travel 2 hours. It hasn't really affected my aftercare. By the time I had to see the doctor for aftercare, I was hardly in any pain.

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

I have begun to work out for the first time. The same day I had surgery, the nurse had me up walking.

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

I will be on Bugs Bunny vitamins until 6 weeks post-op.

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?

So far, my big problem has been nausia.

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

The insurance and the initial pain.

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

My scar is from my breastbone to my navel. It really isn't bad. Once it heals completely, it will barely be seen.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

Once in a while, my weight will stay the same for a couple of weeks. It's kind of depressing, but I will suddenly lose 10 pounds. IT HAPPENS!!!!!!!

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Absolutely!