Julie K.
My story began about 20 years ago when I was 8 years old. That was the first age I begin to notice I was a little heavier than others in my class. Obesity runs on my dad's side of the family. At the age of 13 my parents had me attend Weight Watchers. I rebelled because I wanted to be a "normal" teenager. I did lose 40 lbs in the year I was on the program, but gained it all back. I did not attempt too much to lose weight until college. I was fairly active in college (walking to class, going to the rec), but I did gain my freshman 15 and more.
In January 2007 my doctor became concerned with a rapid heart rate and high blood pressure which was not being controlled by his prescribed meds. I went through many tests. During these tests I found out I had liver lesions, but thankfully they are not harmful. I have Focal Nodular Hyperplasia, which are not cancerous and have probelm been there my whole life. Finally after a visit to a cardiologist I was diagnosed with Mild Pulmonary Hypertension. At this time they are just watching me closely. I am currrently on four blood pressure meds and cholestoral meds.
A doctor suggested I have gastric bypass. He felt if I did not do something now my Mild Pulmonary Hypertension might turn into something more. I had been thinking about this for a long time, but it was not until this year that I found out my insurance would cover my surgery. That was a huge deciding factor in my decision.
I am hopeful for surgery in November!
