My challenges with obesity did not occur until my early 20’s, until then I had enjoyed a life of activity, “normal” sized clothing, and abundant confidence. As I packed on the pounds over the next 15 years I also packed away my life of social activity, Size 10 and 12 clothing, and all my self confidence and personal esteem. Now, don’t think I was not a success in several areas of my life; I had and still have the greatest marriage, 2 college degrees, and 2 wonderful kids, not to mention the steadfast support of my parents. Looking back now, I know my 15 year Fat Tour made me the strong individual I am now. I know that there are individuals who are happy to be your friend as long as you stay fat. I know that job opportunities are harder to come by when you are fat. I know that some people love you, but just can’t understand why you would let yourself get this way. I know it is next to impossible to understand how your spouse could continue to love a fat person. I know that it is hard to be fat and still be a positive role model to your child. I know that it is a challenge to be involved in social settings when you are fat. I know what it means when people say you have such a pretty face. I know what it feels like to wake up and your feet, ankles, and knees hurt the minute you hit the floor. I know what it is to sleep in one position because any other way is virtually impossible. I know what it is like to shop for clothing and find you need the next size up. I know there are days, hours, and moments when you wish you had never been born. I also know how cruel the world is to fat people and it is criminal…

In November 2000 I was in the hospital for a minor surgery and in the fog of anesthesia I decided to open up my “secret” medical chart and there I read the words “MORBIDLY OBESE”, I remember my first thought being, “God, why can I not just die now?” But he had a better plan. I spent the next 2 years gaining weight, losing weight, going to Weight Watcher’s, Jenny Craig, The Adkins, trying out next Monday’s diet, exercising, experimenting with several anti-depressants, prescription diet pills, over the counter diet pills, finally giving up and deciding to just be fat and miserable. I had finally reached rock bottom and I told my gynecologist there are not enough anti-depressants to keep me from ending my life, I was by all accounts in a very dark place. Then a light came on during a conversation with a school acquaintance that had had Gastric Bypass Surgery and raved about Dr. Champion. After 2 months of consulting with myself, I finally made the commitment and was ready to share my decision to have the surgery with my husband and family. Their support was overwhelming, and my success in this journey was enhanced by their love and support for me.

On July 15, 2003, weighing my heaviest at 281 lbs., Dr. Champion and his team provided me with the tools to change my life forever. My surgery was textbook and uncomplicated, my recovery at home was just as easy because I complied and followed ALL instructions for eating and exercising. I began a weight training and aerobic program that unveiled a body that looked younger than 38 years and within 30days post surgery I was off all anti-depressants. I lost 30 pounds the first month and another 30 pounds by the third month. On July 15, 2004, one the one year anniversary of surgery, I had lost all 121 pounds and I weighed 160lbs. MY PERSONAL GOAL WEIGHT!!!! I planned and attended my 20th High School Reunion, (my first reunion ever) and I looked like the same girl everyone new 20 years ago; with the exception of my best friend no one knew the journey I had gone through and for me that am ok.

Now it is December 2005, two and half years post op, my weight loss has leveled and I am holding at 165 lbs. My eating pattern is 5 small meals a day, with protein as a main course. Vitamin supplements are an essential part of my well being and exercise is key to my overall health. I am active in my children’s lives, I volunteer in our community, and in October 2005 served as chairperson for the American Cancer Society Gala fundraiser, which required me to stand and deliver a speech and lead an auction before an audience of 350+ people. I make television appearances and interviews for community events. I recently completed a 5 mile race for my 40th birthday with 5 of my high school friends and finally revealed to them, the story of my journey thought weight loss surgery. To say some of them were shocked is an understatement. My husband has been my rock throughout this journey, he supported me through depression, encouraged me through recovery and weight loss, worked out with me as I was transformed; he says he feels he has been married to three women: a spirited young woman, a woman plagued by obesity, and now a recovered food addict who just happens to be on top of the world. Today, I am living the life I always wanted, but had allowed the excess weight to take away from me. God had a plan for me, and today I am living His plan.

Jan

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