Anthony Dagastino
I am 52 years old and have always been overweight. Over the last 5 years I noticed a significant decline in my mobility, stamina and health issues began to increase I had considered surgical options for over 3 years but was reluctant to make a commitment. In spring of 2009 a friend of mine had RnY Gastric Bypass surgery at Advanced Surgeons in Birmingham. I investigated options near my home in Memphis, but the only option I was willing to consider was Birmingham. I had my surgery August of 2009. Just over a year later I had lost 200 lbs. My beginning weight was 418 lbs. I went to several support groups and remember one person saying "You have to make a decision, do you want to be a smaller fat person or do you want to be healthy?" Her point is you have to participate in the process.
I have learned 3 major things: 1) Learn nutrition and eat correctly (the surgery will help you regulate your food intake). 2) Take your vitamins and nutrition supplements. I know the reduction in prescription medication will more than make up for taking a few vitamin supplements. I have good health insurance and my cost for medications monthly was $160, I am now down to $20 per month. 3) Get in a routing of exercise. The weight loss will give you the energy to do this and the results will motivate you to continue. This surgery gave me my life back. I have no regrets and only wished I had done it sooner.
Deborah Seals
My highest weight was 270, my surgery weight was 250 and my current weight is between 155 and 160. I work out 4-5 times a week. I have not gone back to my old eating habits. I stay away from processed sugars (cakes, cookies, ice cream) I don't miss them. I drink coffee in mornings then switch to protein shakes, water and powerade zeros. I am so much happier and healthier than I have been in years.
