 | Gastric Bypass | 2017 “My life has completely turned around! I’m running around with my grandkids, off all of my medication, and no longer hiding from social situations. I feel good! The support I received from Barix Clinics helped me reach my goals. Now I am full of energy and confidence. I stand taller and hold my head high. |
My weight topped out at 276 pounds. I had sleep apnea, high blood pressure, joint pain, and high cholesterol. I took up to a dozen pills a day to manage my health conditions.
As my weight increased, I started making excuses to get out of playing softball, bowling or doing other things with our friends. When I looked in the mirror, I didn’t recognize myself. Eventually, I became hesitant to go to my children’s school functions and started hiding from people I knew in public. I always felt that I was judged for being a “big girl.” I didn’t enjoy life. I just lived it. I was still young and my life was just zooming by as I sat on the sidelines.
Diet and Exercise Helped Some, but not Enough
After years of not feeling good and juggling medicine to treat my health conditions, I asked my PCP what I could do. He set me on a diet and exercise plan. I wrote down everything I put into my mouth. I remember him laughing when he reviewed my food logs and saw 4 red Skittles and 2 Rollo’s. I did everything he asked–cut down on pop, tracked what I ate, and increased my exercise as much as I physically could. In 2 years, I dropped 40 pound, but that wasn’t enough.
A Friend Referred me to Barix Clinics
A friend referred me to Barix Clinics and my experience has been amazing from day one. Always helpful, they answered my 8000 questions. If they didn’t know the answer, they found it and got back with me. After surgery, they accommodated my unpredictable work schedule for follow up visits.
Barix Provides the Support I Need to Succeed
I have stayed connected online, use the newsletters, nutrition support and get day-to-day support with everyone at the offices. When my surgeon left, I was worried about the transition to another surgeon at Barix Clinics. My worry was needless; the new surgeon is amazing and treats me like he was the one to do my surgery.
My Health Is So Much Better
I no longer battle high blood pressure, sleep apnea, acid reflux and IBS. I now have the freedom to be away from a bathroom for than 20 minutes. I sleep great without my C-Pap machine and have a lot more energy. I’m off all the pills.
My Energy and Confidence Has Soared
My life has done a complete turnaround since surgery. I run around with my grandchildren like I’m 10 again. I don’t shy from the camera or the mirror anymore. I don’t cringe walking into a room full of strangers; instead, I walk with my head held high. When my husband and I run into people we know, I proudly grab his hand and stand tall next to him.
I have dabbled into running and my goal is to run my first 5K this year. I am lifting weights to tone and shape.
I work as a safety and HR Manager. Since surgery, I’m no longer embarrassed to speak up and participate in classes so I’ve been able to expand my education. I now feel comfortable standing in front of large groups and training; knowing that people are listening to me not thinking, “how in the world does she function.”
Her Advice to Those Considering Surgery
Just do it. Stop making excuses. You deserve to feel better.
