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

I heard about it years ago. I thought I would NEVER do such a thing. Too drastic and dangerous that I could always lose on my own. lol NEVER say NEVER.

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 4 days. It was very hard for me because I had problems with my legs and being able to urinate. I felt much better when I was able to go home. Better enviroment for me. Usually I do better at home.

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

The only complication I had was some scar tissue blocked my opening but was easily fixed by Dr. Oh by doing a egd. Was not a problem after that.

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

Well actually I feel bad saying this. But my sister came up from Ca. to help me out. My dh also took two weeks off from work to help. I for some reason felt pressure with my sister there so she went home early. I felt much more comfortable with just me and hubby and he helped me out so much. I rested better and wasnt as tense when it was just us. So be careful who you let in to help you out.

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

I have a support group that is great. There are ladies who are years post op who I learn a lot from. It really helps me stay on tract with the program.

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

My scar is long and red. Yes it is what I expected. Wish it wasnt there BUT wanting to get the weight off is far more important than a scar. It goes from right beneath my breast bone to my belly button. I am in no way ashamed of it. I am PROUD of my weight loss so far.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have lost 135lbs since my surgery. I find that I will go through days of feeling nothing and then I wake up some mornings and actually FEEL lighter. It's really kinda funny. I still have about a 100lbs to go but Im getting there.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Well of course they do. People have no respect for fat people. They look down on them. That is the way our society is. I have other health issues and at times have to use a wheel chair like if I want to go to the fair etc. I find NOW that I am more aware of people who have no patience for handicapped people. A lot will always try and cut in front of the wheel chair to get ahead and then get angry if their heels are ran over. I let hubby deal with it. Its one of his pet peeves. But I notice that if I am walking that yes they are nicer than before.