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

Carnie Wilson told me of it and I experienced her loss over the last couple of years. I never dreamed Medicare would cover this, but my doctor told me finally, and I never looked back after that!

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

My hospital stay at Scripps Mercy in San Diego was fantastic! The staff was wonderful, helpful, the nurses kind and empathetic, every-thing was just terrific!

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

none

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

Had no anxieties whatsoever, there's not once been a time whenI've wondered if this was a mistake!

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

I have a wonderful on-line support group with whom I've corresponded for three months prior to my surgery. They've been wonderful - some are post-surgery, some pre-surgery, all are willng to share their trials and tribulations, worries, successes, etc. There's a local group comprised of pre- and post-surgerical patients as well a people looking for info re the surgery; that's very helpful too -- any venue where you can learn from those who've been there already, or from those who are researching, etc.

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

My scar is beautiful! It's just what I expected, still a bit "touchy" and dark red, but is healthy and is healing well. I understand Vitamin E will help "hide" the scar some, haven't started this yet but will soon.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

not yet

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

My dear friends and family who have always been wonderfully supportive are more so now, are as happy for me as I am for myself!!