Bariatric surgery originally crossed my mind in the winter of 2010. I was significantly overweight and had developed terrible self-esteem issues. I found myself avoiding public engagements and began isolating. Invitations to my 20th high school reunion were arriving in the mail as a regular reminder that I was the heaviest I had ever been.
I struggled with my weight throughout my life, which led me to fail at countless diets and spend a lot of time and money on unsuccessful weight-loss methods. That prompted me to educate myself on the various surgical weight-loss options available. One of the possibilities that immediately sparked my interest was the minimally invasive gastric sleeve procedure at Jackson South Community Hospital. The Gastric Sleeve Center for Weight-Loss Surgery at Jackson South offers free seminars for those interested in learning more about the option.
During the consultation, I learned about the long-term and compounding threat to my health from obesity and the healthy benefits of the surgery. I became convinced that this procedure was the best option for me. I live a very hectic lifestyle with a demanding, full-time executive career and as a single mother of two teenagers. I could not afford to undergo a medical procedure with an extended period of recuperation. With minimally invasive gastric sleeve surgery, I learned that the average patient leaves the hospital the day after the procedure and is able to return to work just one week later.
During my first preoperative visit I was diagnosed with morbid hypertension. This information was quite eye-opening for me. My blood pressure was so high that the doctor recommended inpatient stabilization. I had absolutely no symptoms, but was at risk for stroke. It took the physicians three months of varying combinations of medications to stabilize me for surgery.
I underwent successful gastric sleeve surgery at Jackson South in August 2011. My surgeons, Dr. Moises Jacobs and Dr. Eddie Gomez, approach all their cases as a team. From day one, I trusted them and believed that I had made the right choice. I was able to relax knowing that I would be safe in their care. Just three days after surgery, I returned to work. Not only did I feel great, but I knew I was healthier and would never have to take another blood pressure pill.
Within three months of the procedure, I lost 92 pounds. But what I gained is immeasurable. Today, a year and a half later, I am happy and unrestricted in what I eat, have renewed energy and have regained my self-confidence. I have become an advocate for healthy lifestyles.
The decision to have this surgery changed my life for the better permanently.
The medical team at Jackson South saved my life. Now I look forward to seeing my kids off to college and celebrating the many milestones that lie ahead of me.
Free monthly weight-loss surgery seminars led by Jackson South’s bariatric surgeons are held at Jackson South Community Hospital, 9333 SW 152 St., at 6:30 p.m. the second Thursday of each month. The next seminar is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 13.
For more information or to register for a seminar, call 866-931- 8746.
