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

I had a real good friend that did it last year,my first impression was that if this surgery will save my life, I'm doing it.

Describe your experience with getting insurance approval for surgery. What advice, if any, do you have for other people in this stage?

My insurance company Aetna Healthcare Services was very quick in approving my request. As far as any advice, just make sure you read their requirements and meet those requirements before turning in your request.

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

I walked out of her office feeling very confident that I would be in good hands in her care. I made sure that I took the time to write down all of my questions that I had for the doctor, and took them with me to my visit.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I was tired of being obese. Not to mention that my health was starting to fail me, and my doctor just flat out told me that If I didn't loose some weight I would be dead in 5 years with all of the health problems I was starting to have. I'm only 40 years old, and I don't to die from over eating.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I would rather have the open, just in case there were any complication during surgery that had to be corrected quickly.

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?

The only thing that worried me was being put to sleep. But the specialist that handled that part was so gentle with me. Most of all I put it all in God's hands and I knew he would take care of me.

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 was very supportive before and after surgery. My husband gave me the most support over all.

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

I got support from them too. They were all aware of all of the health problems that I was having, and knew that this help if not correct all of my health problems. I haven't been relased from the doctor yet but I will be out of work approx. 6 1/2 weeks.

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 as well as could be expected after having major surgery preformed on me. They provided everything for me. Ladies,make sure that you bring pads because you will start after surgery. Bring anything that will help you stay as comfortable as possiable. I had my surgery on a Wednesday and went home on a Saturday.

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

No. I was very fortunate, I didn't have any complications. Again I owe that to God and the great doctor that I had.

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

Belive it or not but I was very excited about it. Because I knew I had a second chance to change my life.

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

I was very sore. I was sick of the clear liquid diet,I actually ask my doctor if I could step up to the full liguids,because i totally lost my appetite.I could only sleep on my back, and I am a stomach sleeper.I hated that.I would say that your first 3 weeks are the hardest, because you are fighting cravings that you see other's can eat but you can't have it that is very hard. I just kept telling myself that it will be worth in in the long run.

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

I traveld 80 miles to have my surgery.

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

The only support group that I have was my family. Especially my husband. He has supported me a 150% through this thing. Thanks Baby.

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

My scar is only 5 weeks only but it looks great. I am not ashamed of it at all.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I think it is a little early, I haven't had a plateau yet. Thank GOD.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

I really haven't been around people since I have been home recovering. But, I bet they will take a second glance at be now.(HA-HA)