Testimonial
Like so many others, I have been overweight nearly all my life. Twenty pounds in high school grew to 125 pounds by my surgery date. No matter what I tried, (Weight watchers, Optifast, Weigh Down, etc.) I could loose 20-30 pounds, but never sustain the loss. During my 4 month 'last ditch effort', I was walking 5-6 days a week and following Sugarbusters (like Adkins). I ended up GAINING 5 pounds!

I had given up hope of ever losing my weight. I had been insulin resistant for years and knew diabetes was right around the corner. My Father died at age 52 with Type II diabetes and a heart attack. At 36, I was following in his footsteps at an alarming rate.

I truly feel that God led me to Dr. Anderson, his staff and the DS surgery. I prayed constantly, researched extensively and talked to as many people as I could who had been through surgery. This message board and support groups were wonderful. I could talk to real people who understood what it was like to go to a BBQ and not sit down for fear of breaking my friend's chairs!! The support I have found here is too awesome for words!

When I finally decided to take the plunge, my insurance company raised its ugly head. All WLS surgery was excluded by my policy. I was devastated and cried for days. Unlike so many people however, I was blessed by the ability to self-pay -- THANKS MOM! I was concerned about complications that could skyrocket our bill, but I felt at peace.

Since my DS on 4-22-03, the weight has literally fallen off. I'm constantly amazed. I walk and/or strength train nearly every day. This strengthens my heart as well as accelerates weight loss and makes me feel great. I'm off of Glucophage and feel wonderful. My friends say I glow. I generally do not feel deprived except for milk, (I'm lactose intolerant since the surgery) but expect that to get better soon. I'm still dealing with why I want to overeat and make bad food choices but have gotten better.

I'm proud that I was brave enough to take this step, but recognize that it is not right for everyone. I would do it again in a heartbeat.

My advice - pray, research, go to the seminar, pray some more than hang on for the best ride of your life!