Gastric Sleeve Two Years Later: Barbara’s Story

Barbara came to us after a question from her cardiologist. Two years after her gastric sleeve, she weighs less than 200 pounds for the first time in 10 years. Here is her story, in her words.

“Have you ever considered weight loss surgery?”

“While at a cardiologist appointment, my doctor asked if I had ever considered weight loss surgery. WOW! I had been up and down on the scale ever since having my children. Every time I went back on some sort of diet, I ended up 12 pounds heavier than the last attempt. Weight Watchers, physician-assisted protein shakes, franchised diet places. You name it, I tried it.”

Why she decided to act

Barbara’s reason was personal. “I lost two brothers to cardiac events. They died at ages 53 and 60. I miss them every day. My sister and I vowed to each other that we would take care of ourselves, for each other.”

The first appointment

“I agreed to make an appointment with Dr. Brown to discuss my options. WOW #2: her office called and said they had availability the next day. How could I say no?

Dr. Brown spent over 45 minutes discussing the options she thought were best for me. I agreed to trust her and trust the process, but admittedly I was scared. There was no turning back once I committed. I truly believe she saved my life.”

The hard part

Barbara doesn’t sugarcoat it. “Oh, it was HARD. No joking. The two weeks before surgery, when I only had liquid protein, were not fun. The two weeks after, adjusting to what I could eat and making different choices, were not fun either.”

Two years later: Onederland

“WOW #3. Onederland. For those not familiar with the term, it means weighing less than 200 pounds. I had not seen that number on the scale in 10 years.”

Support that continues after surgery

Life doesn’t stop after surgery. Barbara gained 15 pounds while taking medication for cancer treatment. She came back to see Dr. Brown.

“How wonderful to meet with a physician who does not judge you! Dr. Brown recommended nutrition counseling. I can now say I have lost those 15 pounds and am on my way to my goal.”

Off-scale wins

“I feel better today than I have felt in 25 years.”

Her advice

“I didn’t think I could do it, but I was determined to be my best self for me and my family. Don’t hesitate to make the appointment. It can be life changing!”

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