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

My cardiologist recommended it. I didn't have a view of it until the seminar that I attended. After that point I was very interested.

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

The hospital and staff were wonderful to me. My biggest problem was the ventilator which I had to have for an extra day, and the 3 i.v. sites: both arms and my neck. I went to the hospital fully prepared and used nothing that I brought. Not even my glasses! The gowns they provided were far easier to deal with for me and the staff. Even their slippers were easier on and off than mine. I certainly had no chance to read my book as they always kept me moving!

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

No

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 very excited and made it a point to east everything that I knew I wouldn't be seeing for a very long time. I don't think I was very nervous or anxious but I admit to having a very limited patience level.

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

It's ahs only been 3 1/2 weeks since surgery so my only contact has been with my doctors office. So far I cannot tolerate stage 4 food. I've been to emergery for extreme stomache discomfort and chronic nausea. I am back to stage 2 as I am having trouble with stage 3 now. My doctor did a cat scan and x-rays; everything seems fine. I wish I knew what was going on.

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

My scar is very new and, yes, it's pretty much what I thought. It's about 4 inches long and just 2 days ago I had the staples removed.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

n/a

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

n/a