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

I saw a BTC Commercial on Tv about three years ago. I tried to get them to get approval from my insurance Co. But they didn't. I felt that the surgery was drastic, but I knew it was going to take drastic measures to help me!!

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

He was very informative and was so nice. He's an excellent Doctor!

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I was tired of being fat and it was taking control of m life. Now I have control of my life!

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I researhed the open rny for about 5 months.

How did your family and friends react to your decision? Would you have communicated anything differently if you could now? How supportive were they after your surgery?

My parents weren't too happy. Some friends thought I was crazy and others thought it was a great decision.

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

The hospital i was in was Georgetown Community Hospital. It is a very small hospital , but it was very very clean, the people working there were so very nice . I have been to alot bigger hospitals and I cant say that they could have done any better. My hospital stay was 4 days,1 In ICU and the other in a private room. Really they have everything you need. I didnt have to bring anything but I did. I just cant say enough about the hospital and the staff they were GREAT!

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?

I was sore, but nothing I couldn't handle. I just got out and walked when ever I was feeling down or confined.

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

Liquids for 10 days then pureed foods for 10 days then slowly I added regular foods.

How far did you travel to have your surgery? (If far, how did this affect your aftercare?)

2 1/2 hours . It didnt affect my aftercare at all.

What was your actvity level in the days and weeks after surgery?

right after surgery I didnt have alot of energy but every day it got better and better. I have so much enery now that it's really unbelieveable!

What vitamins and/or dietary supplements have you taken since your surgery?

one a day vitamins and protein drinks. My Dr. didn't really think that it was necessary to have the protein drinks but I felt much better after I started them.

What was the worst part about the entire bariatric surgery process?

The Pain for the first week and the NG tube although they took it out after the first day.

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

none

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

Its from my breats bone to below my naval. I think I expceted it to e worse actually.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

People keep telling me how good I look. as far as anyone treating me differently , none have.