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

A fellow coworker that I know was severly obese and I saw her in the cafeteria at work one day and did not even know who she was. She was so beautiful and glowing. She had to tell me who she was. She then told me of what she had done. I had known others who had had the surgery but to me they did not have an impact on me like my co-worker.

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

My hospital stay was excellent. I was in the hospital for 4 days and I received excellent care. The staff was caring and everyone even the employees that brought me broth were so friendly and attentive. I think the most important thing to bring is a made up mind that this surgery is going to work and you are going to succeed at losing weight. That you are on your way to being that happy and healthy person that you always wanted to be.

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

I had no major complications. My sugar levels were high but the staff managed to bring it down to normal.

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

After I was informed that I had been cleared for surgery by the insurance company, I was ecstatic. I began to see the new. I planned my time off at work, paid any past due bills. I packed for the hospital atleast 2 weeks before my surgery date. I was ready!!!

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

I have not at this time had an aftercare support group. My plans are to contact a known group here in my area and attend the meetings. I know that I will meet new friends that have the same goals as I have and can help me as I lose the unwanted weight.

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

I looks like a centipede. I actually expected a smaller scar.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I wake up every morning thinking that I am now in a size 6. I have had a plateau experience as of yet. But I know others that have gone thru the plateau experienec.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

No everyone still treats me the same. My children are joking that their Mom will be finer than they are. I have 3 children ages 33,32,28. Each of my children are obese because at a young age I gave them my terrible eating habits. I hope that they can see a new and decide to change their lifestyles.