Kathy's Story
Dr McEwen has given me a new opportunity. I have a trainer, I have a healthy lifestyle, I can keep up with my three boys! I even talked my dad into having the LAP-BAND® System!
There are many reasons why I chose the LAP-BAND® Surgery. One of the main reasons was the pain and stiffness in my joints. I hurt continuously and was tired of doctors trying different medications and nothing working. I also had very low self esteem and couldn’t physically keep up with my husband and three boys.
I married in September 2005 to the love of my life. However, my weight was an issue – maybe not with my husband but with myself. He was in the Marines and very athletic. An evening stroll was torture for me!
Since my surgery, I had more energy and I have become addicted to exercise! People that know me, laugh at how addicted I am! I ride my bike to work, increase the incline to the highest on the treadmill and do lunges up and down my driveway (my neighbors must think I am nuts!) My husband and I purchase healthier choices for our home. For instance, for Easter, instead of buying our three boys Easter baskets, we purchased a basketball goal as a family gift. The boys eat more fruit and less junk! Salads have become a nightly ritual at the supper table.
I have become healthier and in return, my family has supported me and they have also become healthier making good food choices. I don’t look at what I cannot eat but what I can eat! Out of all the positive outcomes that I have had with the surgery – I have had only one downfall. I have found someone that is jealous of my weight loss and they are honestly cruel to me. I have come to realize that some people may be jealous and don’t like it that I wore a size 24-26 in February and now wear a size 16 (five months later!)
I enjoy going shopping and trying on clothes! However, I wasn’t ready to make any clothes purchases until recently. Up until a few weeks ago – I was still frustrated when I went into the dressing room. Nothing fit!
My suggestion to anyone that is considering the LAP-BAND® Procedure…..
If you are doing it JUST TO LOSE WEIGHT – This is NOT for you! It is a life change! You MUST exercise and eat right! You cannot “sneak” food – believe me – it will tell on you! I tried to sneak a couple bites of a cinnamon roll and it is JUST NOT worth it! It is a life long change and you cannot focus on what you cannot eat. You have to focus on what you CAN eat and don’t let the negativities get you down! If you are looking for an overnight transformation this is also NOT FOR YOU! It takes time and hard work! Don’t be discouraged – you are going to hit peaks and valleys. You will have more peaks than the valleys – just stay strong…..the pounds will come off and you will feel great! Your energy level will be out the roof and your self esteem will skyrocket!
If I had it to do all over again – I would! I wish I hadn’t waited so long!
Kathy
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