Cris C. “I have more energy and attention for my children and life in general” Surgery Date: July 2009 Surgery: Gastric Bypass What was life like before your surgery? Before surgery I was tired and fatigued all the time. I had no energy or motivation to do much of anything. One of the things I regret most about letting myself get so overweight was missing out on doing things with my young kids because of my constant fatigue. I had sleep apnea, acid reflux, pre-diabetes and high blood cholesterol levels. I looked terrible and was probably headed toward further weight gain with no end in sight. What led to your decision to have the surgery? I had been steadily gaining weight for 15-20 years. After trying many different ways to lose the weight, I finally decided I needed this physical tool to help me control my portions and the type of food I ate. I also felt this would be the best option for success in the long term. How was your experience with Barix? I was very impressed with Dr. Poplawski at my orientation. He stressed several times that the surgery was a tool for weight loss and better health, but that success required changes in eating habits and exercise. Thanks to you all for helping me with getting me to where I am today.  How is your life after surgery? One of the biggest changes I've noticed is my feeling of greater confidence in myself as I go about my day. I know I look better and that makes me feel better about myself. I have to admit that one of the most enjoyable things since my surgery has been clothes shopping! What a feeling when I moved from the plus-size to the misses department! Now I can run after my kids when we play outdoors. I can take the stairs and not feel like I'm going to have a heart attack! I have more energy and attention for my children and life in general. From a strictly medical point of view, my lab numbers have improved greatly. And all the compliments and words of encouragement really help to keep me motivated and let me know I made the right decision. I would do it again without hesitation! What would you tell someone considering Barix? Prepare yourself for the possibility of feeling depressed and/or regretful immediately following the surgery. No one really warned me of this possibility and it took me by surprise and hit me pretty hard. I can remember thinking, "What have I done to myself?" on more than one occasion. Part of this was due to the pain and stress of recovering from the surgery. On top of that, you are supposed to be on a strictly liquid diet, which I found quite difficult. I DO NOT like artificial sweeteners, so all the sugar-free yogurt and popsicles really left me lacking. Prior to surgery, I would recommend really experimenting to find a protein drink you enjoy and looking for acceptable "liquid" foods that you can stand eating for 2-3 weeks straight. And try to find a friend, counselor, or support group that you can vent to when you're feeling crappy. I can look back now and know I did the right thing, but when it's so fresh and new (and you're miserable) it’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel.