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

I found out that a fellow co-worker had it done and had great success with it-several others followed, myself included--

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

Mine was relatively easy. Since I knew I had to have a strong, solid letter, I was approved within a month--If you run into a wall, do NOT get discouraged--find out exactly what they (insurance co) are looking for and make it happen--talk to your PCP, and ask him/her for support--be creative!!

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

Very comfortable--be prepared to take notes-there's going to be a lot of info coming your way!

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

Oh gee, let me think on this one---Hmmm--I wanted to LIVE!!! And have my quality of life back!!

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

The hospital stay was amazing--I stayed 4 days. I was treated with such kindness by the staff. I found that comfortable clothing (loose) and good slippers are a must because you will be walking, plus your everyday essentials.

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

I had none!! I went in on a mission and I am still on the road to the losing side. You do go through some emotional and mental games. For instance, one day I became very ancy. I couldn't figure out why I was feeling this way. I went to my son and expressed my thoughts to him. His reply was, "Mom, the reason your feeling that way was because you were constantly eating and your hands were being used at the time! Now you're not eating that way and you have time on your hands to do other things!" Amazing 11 yr old--

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

Fantastic--one of the best decisions I've ever made!

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

The hospital where I had my surgery done is about 2 hours away. The hospital that I work in has several of us that have gone or are going through the program, so we talk amongst ourselves. I have heard that the support group is great though--

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

I had my surgery done lap--so the incisions are very, very small and are fading away like the rest of me!!

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I hit one or two--but I do not let it get me down because I lose inches during that time!! I also learned to leave that scale alone--

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Oh yes, people will remark on how different I look-there is a glow about me!! Men who didn't give me the time of day want my time now and I just can't seem to find any for them now!!