Melissa: 120 lbs. Weight Loss

My lifestyle before I had weight loss surgery was normal as to most that have a weight problem. I have been on Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, South Beach, Atkins, Nutrisystem, Medifast, (insert diet plan here) you name it I’ve done it. These all worked in the beginning, lose 20, but I would gain 50 and so on. I have been to the doctors on numerous occasions to see if they could help me. I was put on many different drugs for weight loss. Finally the doctors got fed up and told me that there was nothing else they could do. I eventually got so frustrated, I developed Binge Eating Disorder. I would eat food in mass quantities and then hide the wrappers or packages in the garbage so no one could see what I had done.

My highest weight was 250 lbs. Being that I am only 5′ 1 ½” tall, this was a lot of weight to carry on a small body. Because of my weight, I was starting to hurt all over; everyday movement, chores and activities of daily living were becoming extremely hard to do. I couldn’t walk up and down the stairs without being out of breath. I couldn’t walk more than a few feet without wanting to sit down. I wanted to sleep all the time. I was told I may not be able to get pregnant, which made me extremely sad. I became severely depressed and just wanted to stay home. I became very ashamed of myself and didn’t want anyone to see me in public.

I finally decided that enough was enough and I had to start making a change. I was now 30 years old and having health problems. I wasn’t able to keep up with my husband. I decided to talk to my doctor about weight loss surgery. I had Gastric Bypass on September 21, 2009 with Dr. Cottam and I have lost 120 lbs. I owe Dr. Cottam so much gratitude because this was the day that he changed my life forever!

In 2 years, I have gone from 250 lbs to 130 lbs and am no longer short of breath when I walk and do not have pain in my joints. I can now wear the CUTE clothes I have always wanted to shop for and My CONFIDENCE has increased dramatically. I am a HAPPIER person, not necessarily because I have lost the weight but, because I feel AMAZING inside and out and I owe it all to my weight loss surgery. I have gained my life back! I am able to keep up with my family and am able to enjoy life. I should have done this a long time ago. I feel amazing and I would do it a million times over.

If you would be willing to share your weight loss experience, contact us to send your story and pictures.