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

I researched it for 3 yrs prior to personally knowing someone who had the surgery. I never let anyone know because of their rude moments.

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

Rex hospital in Raleigh NC was excellent. Their staff is very professional and I did not want any pain meds because it would hampered my recovery timeframe. My stay lasted 2.5 days only. Your Bible and a attitude to succeed!

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

None major by the grace of GOD. I have been nauseated and iron/sugar level have been low at times but that is it.

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

Wonderful... No problems in post-op. I have gone from a 32/34 to a 18/20 in last than 6 mths; so I have no problems.

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

1-7 weeks - all liquids 8-10 weeks - Pureed foods/baby foods 11-15 weeks - Chicken, Turkey, Tuna and any broiled foods/ no grease or bread duing this timeframe. 16-now - Stay on track and eat appropriately.

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

Less than 3 miles from home

Please describe in detail what things you could and couldn't eat in the weeks and months following surgery. What foods have been off limits? Please explain how your dietary tolerance changed week-by-week, and then month-by-month since surgery.

I actually stocked a closet of low calories/no carbs foods I am required to eat during the following months.

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

Very active and walking

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

B12, Biotin, Iron, Vitamin A, C, D, E

What side effects (nausea, vomiting, sleep disturbace, dumping, hair loss etc.) were worse for you? For how long after surgery did they persist? How did you cope with them?

Nausia and some hair loss during the 5th and 6th month.

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

Hair loss but it is worth the loss of weight to get health.

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

None and I wish I had...

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

six scar less than 1/2 inches in length.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

2 week plateau either and there

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes, Family... I son said mommy is HOT!