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

I heard about it on the news, saw some surgeries on TV.....years ago I didn't think it was even a choice after all who would need that kind of surgery....I never in a million years thought I'd need or want surgery

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

My stay in the hospital was fine. I was there for almost a week...I was very fortunate, I had no complications...and many nurses on the flor I was on had successfully had the surgery! Bring a sense of humor, and good thoughts and follow the doctor and nurses' directions...the more you move the better and quicker you will recover.

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

No I was very lucky I had no complications

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 kept positive thoughts and only thought of the good results this would bring...and this choice would change my life.

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

For me I did not go to a support gorup, I was never any good with that. But a co-worker had the surgery many years ago and we bonded and shared our thoughts. Many people do very well with a support group and find it very helpful...I lack the desire to go on a regular basis.

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

I have a few little dot like scars on my abdomin ...I had micro surgery...and it was just like the doctor had said.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

well, I'm about 10 months out lost about 95 lbs and I've been stuck for about a month or so.....I know I need more exercise...but I've had a few major things going on in my life like a new home and new marriage!!! So in the next week or so things should settle down and I can concentrate on losing the rest.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Oh yes, they approach me, want to know what I have done, call me skinny(I'm not) and just think I'm doing a great job with the weight loss. Only one person knows about the surgery everyone else thinks I have been on a strict doctors diet.