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

A co worker was going for a consultation and gave me obesityhelp.com to look at.

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

It was very pleasant, the nurses were very helpful and considerate. I was in from Wed - Sat. Bring your own pillow and a family member, it was extremelly helpful to have someone there with me at all times - the nurses are very helpful but also very busy.

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

No - but my sinuses drain into my stomach sometimes making it difficult to eat - I am now taking allegra which seems to help.

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 tired and did get depressed but with the support of my family and friends I made it and am now so happy.

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

I now know several people that have had the surgery and we all help and support each other, I don't know how I would have made it through this last year without the encouragement of them and my family.

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

My scar was much longer then I thought at the time of surgery, now I don't think so. I have a small indentation just above my belly button that sometimes makes it look like I have 2 belly buttons and I have couple of areas that are spread more, but after tanning it is not as noticable. Although I feel this all a small price to pay for my end result.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

They seem like they will never end, but you have to evaluate what your eating and how much exercise your getting. You will be able to move on.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Most definently! I get a lot of stares because I can now wear all the trendy clothing and show off my figure and tan, instead of being stared at because I'm heavy.