Welcome Nell! I just had my gastric bypass April 2 (and turned 54 the next day; so we're pretty close in age except your younger you lucky person you)!!!
I had been thinking about the surgery for about 3 years...went to my first seminar in September 07; did the six month STUPERVISED DIET (yes...that's spelled just right), and then went through the many tests you need to have before you get your surgery scheduled. Had the surgery and have, so far, not had any complications except that I'm still hungry! HA! That is a vile trick to play on me. Don't worry though...everyone has their own experience following surgery...many here were not the least bit hungry for months. I'm not trying to scare you off. But all in all it has been quite the experience.
I lurked around this forum for some time before joining and was totally blown away by the wonderful, educated and kind people here. Everyone was in a different stage of their journey. I also bought about 6 or 7 books about the surgery (your library may also have some on hand). If you would like a down to basics book to read I would recommend "Weight Loss Surgery for Dummies". It will take you through most of the process.
Otherwise, I would just keep reading peoples experiences in this forum and gather all the info you can before committing to the surgery. I am only 4 weeks out and can see what a total change my life has taken...you need a lot of discipline and plain old gumption to stick to the required "rules and regulations" to make your surgery successful.
Good luck to you dearie...mumsy
