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

I actually saw the advertisement on TV, but then a coworker had it done and I watched her go through it and she did fine. I thought about it for months, then decided to go ahead with it. I am so glad I did. I feel better already and I am only 2 months out!

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 very interesting! I needed more help than usual because, like many others, I started my period! It was awful! I couldn't help myself, and it was so embarrassing to have help with that, but thank goodness for the nursing staff...they really helped me so much! Everyone was very helpful and responded immediately if I needed something. I stayed there for 4 days...the most important things I brought were my slipper shoes, robe and CD player...oh, and my lipstick! HA!

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

I had no complications at all! Completely uneventful.

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

I was a little nervous but I knew all of the risks and benefits and I did my research. I had plenty of support so that made everything easier to cope with. I was very excited, if anything...even the night before, I slept like a baby!

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

I go to my local support group meetings every other week..it helps me stay in line and focus. I get help and questions answered by going and meeting others with the same issues really helps me stay encouraged.

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

My scar is longer than expected...plus, it really widened out at the top. I don't know the reasons for this but I am not worried about it anyways...I have way too many stretch marks from my big babies! no one but my husband will see my belly anyway!!!

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I am only 2 months out right now, so i really haven't hit any plateaus yet...I have slowed down here in the last 2 weeks but I have started droping again. I wasn't that big to begin with so i will be a slow loser...I am down 33 pounds so far...that's very satisfying to me.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Not really...other than attention from having the surgery, asking me how I am feeling is all...I have lost enough weight now for people to really notice...the attention is around the corner , I think.