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

I am a medical assistant so, I already knew about WLS. But wasn't really familiar with all the ins and outs until i did my research on OH and other websites.

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

They didn't pay for a dime. Fortunately, my husband was able to take out a loan to help me start my life over.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

One of my patients asked me the same question. And for me there is nothing more final than death. Besides that, my brother whom I love dearly asked me why I wanted to kill myself. He told me how much he loved me and wanted me to be healthier. I took that seriously and decided that I needed to change. Being overweight for me would have been a death sentence. I was starting to have heart problems and hypertension.

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 could not have been any more supportive. I owe them ALL everything!

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

They were all for it and supported me as well. I inspired a couple of them to eat healthier too!

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

DEHYDRATION!