Thinking back to February of 2004, I remember being so down about anyone I used to know seeing me that I wouldn’t even make an appointment to get my hair done. My husband looked at me and said, "You have stopped living and we need to find you some help."
I’d mentioned gastric bypass surgery before and we’d both agreed that it sounded like such a drastic measure that it would only be for those dying. Well…I had basically died. I didn’t live my life any longer. I worked and came home and hid from the world.
My husband and I both agreed that it might be a good idea to start researching online. I found the Obesity Help.com website and started reading profiles. I also read up on the different types of surgery. I was somewhat overwhelmed by all the information. I decided to find a surgeon somewhere who could help me sort through the information and choose the surgery that was best for me. I searched the South and one surgeon stood out because of the number of surgeries, the types of surgeries, and overwhelming satisfaction of his patients…JK Champion.
I was greeted by a friendly voice over the phone when I first called. Days after the initial call I received a packet of information and paperwork in the mail. I filled out those papers and it wasn’t long before I had an approval and a surgery date. I would go and chat with other patients in the chat room on Obesity Help. I would also get information from Dr. Champion’s support group on his Yahoo Group. In addition to those, I even chatted with Dr. Champion and asked him some questions in his live chat on Yahoo that takes place each month. I felt so prepared going into surgery. I came out of surgery and realized, I was very prepared.
I knew what rules Dr. Champion expected me to follow. I followed those rules. I kept my appointments with Dr. Champion, his nutritionist, my PCP, and the weight came off. I also remained very healthy during this time. That is a HUGE plus in my book. I wanted to lose weight, but without sacrificing my health in the time being. I did it!!!
I am 5′6" and weigh 150lbs. I have been around this weight for about a year now. I still have to eat right and exercise. I still have days when I struggle with the rules and guidelines. But, I have a white book that I received during preop that I keep right here by my computer. If I am having a bad day I will pick it up and turn to the section that addresses whatever problem it is I’m having and remind myself what it is I should be doing.
I am so happy to be LIVING my life again. I’m so thrilled with Dr. Champion and his staff. I don’t know what my quality of life would be now if I hadn’t gone through with the surgery, but I know it’s certainly improved since the surgery.
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