Muriel C.
Pre-op comorbidities: HTN, diabetes, high cholesterol
Current comorbidities: none
What was your motivation to pursue weight loss surgery?
Not enjoying playing with grandchildren and the fear of losing a leg to diabetes.
Why did you choose the Bariatric Surgery Program at WFUBMC?
Recommendation of another patient and the educational program offered.
How has your life changed since weight loss surgery?
I have more energy, can cross my legs, fit into real size clothes, and play without getting out of breath.
What is something you always wanted to do that your weight loss has enabled?
Ride a motorcycle, bumper cars, and not fear cameras. I can bend over and still breathe.
Megan P.
Preop comorbidities: severe obstructive sleep apnea, uncontrolled hypertension, pre-diabetes/metabolic syndrome
Post-op comorbidities: hypertension controlled on half the medications
What was your motivation to pursue weight loss surgery?
At the time I decided to pursue Lap-band® I was 29 and had just been told that I had severe sleep apnea. My doctor also told me that my hypertension was at stroke-level and without weight loss I would most likely be diabetic by the age of 35. My family has a long history of dying young from diabetes and I would like to stop that cycle.
Why did you choose the Bariatric Surgery Program at WFUBMC?
I was initially introduced to the program through a coworker and also referred to the Introductory class through Lapband.com. I did some online research of other bariatric programs in N.C. and WFU seemed like a good choice due to their “team approach” and experience with Lap-band (not just gastric). I also liked that the program is a BCBS Center of Excellence (or whatever its called). The proximity to my house didn’t hurt either.
How has your life changed since weight loss surgery?
I have found people treat me very differently, whether they be acquaintances or strangers. People seem to take me more seriously now and show more respect. I also don’t get out of breath when only walking a couple of stairs and the arthritis in my knees is much better.
What is something you always wanted to do that your weight loss has enabled?
Go shopping with my friends in the same store. It was embarrassing before to not be able to look at clothes and just do the “big girl” version of shopping – meaning only purses and earrings. I didn’t want to drag my friends into the “big girl” store. Also, we are going on a cruise... and I’m going horseback riding on the beach. I have always wanted to do this but was over the “weight limit” before.
Holly S.
Preop comorbidities: hypertension, high cholesterol, high triglycerides, pre-diabetes/metabolic syndrome, multiple joint pain
Postop comorbidities: None
What was your motivation to pursue weight loss surgery?
Health. I did not want to get diabetes.
Why did you choose the Bariatric Surgery Program at WFUBMC?
Fuzz’s reputation.
How has your life changed since weight loss surgery?
I’m much happier and healthier.
What is something you always wanted to do that your weight loss has enabled?
Sit in an airplane seat comfortably since I travel so much for work.
Ginger M.
Preop comorbidities: elevated blood pressure (but not on medication), multiple joint/muscle pain
Current comorbidities: none
What was your motivation to pursue weight loss surgery?
I was afraid that I was going to end up bedridden or die because it was getting very difficult to even walk.
Why did you choose the Bariatric Surgery Program at WFUBMC?
Recommendations from friends and patients. Also the outstanding reviews that I had read on websites.
How has your life changed since weight loss surgery?
I am able to do more than ever before. My self-esteem and overall health has improved and I have a new outlook on life. I feel like I am living and not just existing.
What is something you always wanted to do that your weight loss has enabled?
Fly in a plane, work out in a gym, buy clothes in a “regular” store again.
