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

When I was much younger I heard of "stapling" and I thought I'd never be fat enpough to need it. As an adult, I heard about Carnie Wilson. At the time of her surgery I didn't know much. Since then I have been researching and seen the differnce it made in her life. Then I found this site and all the people it has helped.

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

The meeting was better than I thought. I was not as embarassed as I thought I would be. My advise...Write down any question you have casue when you get there you are so busy listening you will forget what you know, what they said and what you didn't ask!!!

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

The benefits outweigh the risks. Keep in mind that any surgery has risks. If you have a heart problem, you have the surgery. The benefits outweigh the risks. Well, at the rate I was going I would have ended up with open heart surgery anyway!!!

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I have decided on the VBG. I saw that many people chose the RNY, and that almost changed my mind but, the though of "dumping" and not being able to ever, ever again tolerate Ice cream...I mean you have to have a taste once in a while...and having to take all those vit & min supplements evry day several times a day for the rest of my life.

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 was only afraid of what would happen to my children, ages 5 and 2. I made my family discuss their care and they agreed to my thoughts and wishes. As for advise, I would only say that you take risks everyday...even just crossing the street. As a woman, I have given birth twice...many women die doing this but women still get pregnant everyday

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

Well, I am currently a stay at home mom, but I did discuss it with my former employer, who is my Internist and he thought it was a good idea. He didn't push or encourage it but he did support my decision.

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

the staff was great. i only needed the demerol shots the first 2 days. i did ask for some ativan as my anxiety was acting up and it really helped. i was there from tuesday to saturday. i brought everything and only needed slippers for walking and a photo of my sons to cheer me up. too tired for make up. too sleepy to read. to warm for my robe. too lazy to change from hospital gown to my own pj's. they gave me soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, lotion, and shampoo. i had my own but it was easier touse what was in front of me!!!!!

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

a little anxiety and depression but i had them before surgery too. i ran a low fever till aboyt 8 days post op. they weren't sure why but my blood count was normal and it went away. it made me very nervous cause i know fever can be a sign of infection, but it turned out to be nothing.

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 ok. i cleaned the house and stocked up on food for the rest of the family and i made sure i would have what i needed post op like jello, broth and crystal light. the house was spotless and all the laundry had been done when i left for the hospital. i also painted my sons room 2 weeks pre op...a little nervous energy maybe?????!!!!!

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

i go to my dr's support group the first wednesday of every month and i come to this sight a lot to ask questions and read what others have to say. it helps so much to know that others are going or went through the same thing.

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

a thin line from my sturnum to my belly button. to be honest the first time i saw it it scared me...i never really thought about having a scar...i was just worried about recovering. it doesnt bother me now and my boys like to look at "mommy's zipper" LOL

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

none yet

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

not yet...only lost 18 lbs but my friends are very supportive and everyone asks how i am and if i am hungry