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

I found out about the surgery from the Internet, after my doctor recommended it. I learned the facts from Dr. Slotman during my first visit to him, and then shortly before surgery attended a meeting sponsored by the hospital where I was operated, whose guest speaker was Dr. Slotman. I was thrilled to have found a permanent solution to my weight problem (or so I thought) that how risky it is didn't sink in--I only thought about what I wanted to learn or hear about it, not the whole picture.

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

I was nervous, and tried my best not to show it. Dr. Slotman was frank with me, told me I was morbidly obese in a clinically nice way to say it, and he covered everything then what I know now. I think wanna-be patients need to research WLS as much as they can, like a school project, because it is a gravely serious decision, before seeing a surgeon. I don't think it is possible for a surgeon to answer every question you might ever want to ask at the initial visit--just enough to get started. If I did it over again, I would've been more open-minded how serious this procedure is.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

It was available to me if I wanted it, meaning that my insurance was accepted. I wanted to feel better, and of course look better, and I wanted to live longer. I felt this surgery was a gift of life, and it is.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

The only procedure Dr. Slotman performed at the time of surgery was open RNY.

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 feared not waking up. Not ever being able to eat again wasn't worth worrying about! I think I also feared developing an infection and dying from it. All I can suggest is not to think about it. In fact, it is more important to develop a healthy, strong attitude that this surgery will change your life for the better so that when you are sick and weak, just after surgery, it will give you the strength to pull yourself up emotionally and physically despite the pain. Worrying about dying is a waste of energy.

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 family and friends were supportive. A few tears were shed because of some comments but overall, I had a great amount of support. I was stunned when an aunt asked why I was having this surgery, because I didn't look that fat. I think I would've backed off telling everybody, because it is a very sensitive issue, and just speak to close friends and family (not necessarily relatives).

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

N/A

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

It looks like a zipper that is fading fast. Yes, it is what I expected. Comparing it to the scars of other WLS pts who are brave enough to have pictures of them sporting their scars, it looks like a work of art.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have plateaued several times before I decided to really start exercising. Even still I plateau, but know I'm doing my best to get off of it.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes, with respect for the most part.