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

On 20/20. I wanted it then, over 2 years ago, but my doctor talked me into an alternative approach. (Phen/fen). Now my heart has been damaged by the drugs, so I did research again, and had it done this year. I am so happy I did. I got 99% of my information from the internet. It's been wonderful.

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 not a very pleasant one. I felt like I was treated worse because of the type of surgery I had. The nurses didn't seem to have time for me. The doctors were ok, but they weren't there but maybe 10 minutes a day. I think that people who are overweight are discriminated against worse than any race on this earth.

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

I had no complications from surgery. I did feel a bit of discomfort having the drainage tube coming out of my stomach for 2 weeks after surgery, but other than that, no complications.

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

After I got the date for my surgery, I was excited, scared, worried, still unhappy, but happy that my life was going to take a turn for the better. Nothing ever seemed to move fast enough for me. Then the day came. I was scared, but with any surgery, the risks are there. Personally I think that the risks of being overweight far out-weigh the risks of surgery. I assured my family that if anything happened to me during this surgery, Know that I was doing what I wanted to do to improve my life, and be happy for me.

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

I go to my surgeon now every 3 months, until 1 year post-op. I am now 4 months post-op. I have a dietician who sees me at the same time the doctor does. They help me to rule out the foods that make me sick, and the ones that you tend to grow intolerant to. So far, Red meat has been the only thing I have not tolerated. I guess that can be a good thing.

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

It is a straight scar, starting at my ribs and going to the top of my belly button. Yes, it is exactly what I expected. I did have 3 c-sections prior to this, and my gall bladder removed in 1981, so my bikini days were over before I started!

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have had a couple of plateaus since surgery. I generally linger for 2 weeks at one weight, give or take 2 lbs in either direction. I have actually gained a lb or 2 at that plateau. Then all of a sudden, I lose 4 lbs in 1 day. It varies, but I know I am tapering off now, and will have to watch my food intake a little more closely.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Not really. I do have a better relationship with those close to me in my family, and that's only because I like myself better, so of course they are all happier too.