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

My hospital stay was GREAT. The staff was so helpfull and whatever I asked of them, they did. My stay was for 5 days, I got pneumonia, or I would have only ben there for two-two 1/2 days. The one single most important item I would tell people to bring is a small pillow. It is great for coughing and deep breathing exercises and secondally, it did a world of good for the ride home. There are more bumps out there than you think!!!!

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

As I stated above I did get pneumonia, was given some antibotics and stayed for a couple of extra days and was well.

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

There were days, that I thoguht to myself, what have I done. Then I knew I did this for my live, health and my children. I now run play and keep up with them. They are not waiting for me to catch my breath on the park bench.

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

My scar is normal. I expected it to be alot worse. I really didn't care what the scar what like as long as I got the extra weight off and felt better and healthier

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have been at a plateau now for about 4 months. I am down from a size 26 -28 to a size 16. I feel WONDERFUL!!! So the plateau is there, if it stays fine, if not fine. I have lost alot of weight and can walk, play and do tings without being out of breath.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes, people don't stare like they used to when I had all the extra weight. People tell me now that I have a glow to myself.