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

tv. wow, scary.

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

my stay was almost perfect. i was in for 3.5 days. i brought a thin house coat to fit over my hospital gown.

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

no complications. i thank god and my surgeon, and his staff.

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 am 2 weeks post op tomorrow (4/7/03). i had an open vbg/rny. i have been very sore, but can feel improvements daily. i had battles with head hunger my first week. but it is getting better now.

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

my support is from internet groups. im sure its not as good as in person , but with 4 small children and a hectic schedule, its the best i can do. it is extremely important to have a source of help. questions arrive daily. i dont think any drs office wants calls daily about everything in a persons journey. its helpful to get so much good advice from people who can relate.

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

my incision is WAY bigger than i expected. but im not complaining. no complications outweighs that.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

im only 2 weeks out. i havent had a plateau yet. i have already been able to fit into clothes 2 sizes smaller in just 2 weeks.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

have not been out in that way yet.