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

My girlfriend had it done & I was her coach through her entire journey. My initial impression, like with all surgeries, was scared. The more I learned about the procedure & after seeing the HUGE change in my friends life I was so happy that something like this was being offered to help with obesity, other then medications, which I'm so obosed to.

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

My experience with my insurance was a positive one. They will pay 100%

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I'm 46yrs. old and I am just plain tired of being FAT!!!! I'm sick & tired of having difficulty breathing & not being able to sleep @ night, because I'm so uncomfortable. I watched my father & grandmother pass away, because of illnesses caused by their weight & that has scared the hell out of me.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

It was easy for me. I want the Gastric Bypass, because it has the most success rate!

What fears did you have about having complications or even dying from from the surgery, and what would you tell other people having the same fears now?

I'm a strong believer in fate. What is meant to be will be, we really have no control over that. I feel IF I don't have the surgery there is a strong possability that I could die from being obese. If I were to die from having the surgery it was just my time, that's all. at least I gave it a shot, I died trying to do something about my weight rather then sit around & wait for the weight to kill me.

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 stands behind me 100%. whatever makes me happy,is what they have said. They have also stated that they love me just the way that I am, but I feel they will love me even more without all the moaning & groaning from all my aches & pains caused from this damn weight.

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

same with my employer, she's fine with it, she's happy for me. I haven't told how long I will be out, because I don't have that answer yet.

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

I live in Hampton NY. I will be having the surgery, I believe @ Ellis Hospital, which is 1 1/2hr drive from my home. the traveling before & after will not bother me, because it's to help me, not hurt me!