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

2 words Carnie Wilson! I thought if she could do so could I.

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

I waited for almost 1 year for UCD Medical Center, by the time they got back to me I had found someone else to see. Don't Give UP, and keep calling and bugging them daily LOL.

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

My first visit with my surgeon was a group consult. It was very informative.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

It was gastric bypass or back surgery. Since I've lost weight my back feels Awesome!

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I researched all the different ones, and chose the best one for me.

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've had other surgeries, so I wasn't scared at all. I've always had good luck going under so it wasn't a big deal for me. I was a little freaked out about the drain tube, but it didn't hurt at all. Your on so much morphine after surgery, you'll feel great no matter what LOL. Don't be afraid = )

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?

Some of my family members were happy for me, others weren't. I didn't really care what any of them thought. I did this for me, not them. My Husband and kids were the best!

How did your employer/supervisor react to your decision? What did you tell him/her? How long were you out of work?

I'm a Domestic Goddess so no Boss, I'm the Boss LOL

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

My hospital stay could of been a little bit better, but no nurse is perfect. LOL I was there for 3 days. Bring your Bath Robe, Slippers, Socks, Lip Balm of some kind.

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

I didn't have any 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?

I was excited but scared all at the same time. I just tired not to worry.

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

OK, I can't lie, the first few weeks kinda suck. You will get so sick of broth and jell O. The pain kicks in about the 4th day home. The coughing and deep breathing starts to get on your nerves too. LOL. But you gotta do it. If you can make it through the first week your home free, so to speak. Expect discomfort, and being tired.

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

My Dr's office is only about 10mins. from my house.

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.

Before surgery, eat the stuff you think your going to miss the most. LOL. I gave up Ice Tea, Coffee. I don't eat rice, pasta, breads, grains. I try to stick to meats, cheese, some veggies and fruits. My off limit foods are Fast FOOD! The first month wasn't too bad, I had soups, broth, meats, seafood. I'm in the second month I can have Meats, Veggies and Fruit.

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

The first week your very tired. But I am full of energy now. I feel better than I have in a very long time.

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

I take 1 centrum multi vitmin everyday with 2 calcium pills and vitmin B12 once a week.

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?

I'm still learning to eat slower or vomit. I have to say that vomiting isn't that bad, because there really isn't much to come back up, but it's still not pleasent. I'm learning to pause after every bite and wait to see if I feel sick. I haven't really had any other problems.

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

THE IV!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I hate needles !!!!!!!!!!!! LOL

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

I go to a monthly support group. I guess for some people it is very important, but I'm shy in crowds, so I could live without it LOL.

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

My tiny scars LOL, they are very small. They are better than I expected.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I haven't reached that point yet.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

No.