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

I have a friend that had it done but it was something I didnt even consider after bringing it up to my asthma doctor because he said I would have a good chance of dying on the table and that I better decide who will raise my daughter if that happens

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

I didnt have any trouble with my approval since I was on medicare..being on Social security disability for asthma, diabetes and high blood pressure I was approved pretty much right away.

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

I was admitted to the ICU for 3 days after my surgery because my blood sugar was very high..then a regular room for 1 more day. The ICU nurses were wonderful..very caring, helpful and managed my pain so that I was fairly comfortable.

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

no complications except for the high blood sugar.

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 very excited, I couldnt wait to have the surgery done and over with so that I can get started with losing the weight and get back to a normal productive life and be able to do more with my daughter...I counted down the days and prayed alot.

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

The first few weeks were alittle tough...trying to get down the amount of fluids recommended and eating....also getting around and doing things was alittle hard because of being sore but to me...the worst was over so that made things more tolerable.

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

my aftercare has been with my surgeon and the friends i have that have had the same surgery as me....they have been very supportive!

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

my scars are 6 small incisions and as time goes on they are fading alittle

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have hit a plateau..started at the end of aug (08) when I got sick with my asthma and had to go back on breathing treatments..eventually being admitted to the hospital and being put on IV steroids for 5 days and then at home oral steroids for another week..unfortunately I haven't lost any weight at all since then BUT I'm feeling better now and am able to start my walking again and moving around more so I'm sure the weight will start going down again

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

YES...I don't get those ugly stares anymore, people seem more friendly and willing to talk with me now