Chad Lost 136lbs. and Gained Endless Energy!
June 11, 2013“I knew that I needed to change my life. I was unhealthy, and I wasn’t pleased with the direction my life was taking. This surgery has been the greatest thing that ever happened to me. I feel like a new person. I have an incredible amount of energy and feel like I could just keep going and going.”
Chad has always described himself as active–even before undergoing weight loss surgery. He’s always been involved in tennis and participated in Zumba classes, but not without shortness of breath, extreme fatigue and over-exertion. “Things you enjoy doing shouldn’t be so hard. I knew it was time for a change. Time to be proactive about my future and my health.”
When Chad began researching gastric bypass surgery, he had one pretty big advantage: As a certified surgical technologist, he’d worked in the operating room during bariatric surgeries and seen the procedures first-hand. He knew about the risks and complications that could arise, as with any surgery. But he also knew about the success that was in store afterward. Still, he did the due diligence, attending an informational seminar and turning to ObesityHelp.com for guidance and support from his peers. Once he’d determined this was the right answer for him, he set out to make it happen.
It was worth it. “The surgery didn’t just change my life. It gave me my life back. Now I play tennis twice a week, and I’m able to run down the tennis balls a lot easier. I can actually move around in Zumba without being short of breath. The things I enjoy are enjoyable again. I even take steps in the parking deck two at a time on my way to work. Life is amazing now. I’m a new man.”
Chad’s only regret is not having had the surgery sooner. He urges others who are battling their weight to do the research and determine which solution is best. Go to a support group meeting and hear the real-life experiences of others. And, he adds, do it as soon as you can. “Don’t waste another day. Plain and simple, I’m happy with my life now and can’t wait to continue living it.”
The Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery program at Carolinas HealthCare System is helping people regain a healthy lifestyle. Take the first step to a healthier lifestyle by attending a free informational seminar on weight loss surgery. Our bariatric surgeons will walk you through the process and determine which option is best for you. Visit www.carolinashealthcare.org/bariatric or call 1-800-358-1895.