Georgianne Z.
On April 5, 2007 - I had Roux En Y (lap) surgery by Dr. Gary Korus at Penn Presbyterian Hospital.
For my photo log, click here.
Like others on this site, I've had a life filled with food, weight and countless diets. I've lost 1,000's of pounds while trying to "not be fat".
For many years, I would research and review all sorts of web sites, books and magazines about the Roux En Y surgery. I think I have seen 100's of specials on the Discovery Health Channel on individuals who have had it done - successfully and unsuccessfully. I had fought anyone who suggested it. My reasons were (and probably still are) pretty good. I resisted the alteration of my body. I was convinced I would never have this surgery. God created us in His image and wanted us this way. It is my fault I cannot handle the food. This is so true. What is also true is that I have tried every diet, every motivational incentive, every drug and every fitness/health plan on the planet. I've had my ears stapled, been on every fad and doctor prescribed diet. I've been in treatment centers and had psychological exams. I've had enough with focusing on the food! I need a life long solution that will help me to lose weight and put food in its place.
As time went on, I would continue to read about people who have been able to do the things they have always wanted to do and live a healthy life. I had to make a choice and I wanted to live - but not live the life I had been living.
I wanted to really live!!
I chose to have this surgery because I wanted to live the way God had created us to live. I wanted to love.
In July, 2006, I went to several informational seminars at various hospitals and bariatric clinics in the Philadelphia area. Each time I fought having this surgery thinking I was not going to have this done. After a lot of research, tears, fighting and prayer, I felt Dr. Gary Korus at Penn Presbyterian within the University of Pennsylvania Health System had the talent and the surgery to help me. I could not do this by myself. Dr. Korus and his team took a chance on me. God gave him and his team wonderful talents and they give it back to us all.
On April 5, 2007 - Holy Thursday - I had laproscopic Roux En Y gastric bypass. The surgery took a little over 5 hours and I spent 5 days in the hospital. There were moments as I was laying in that hospital bed where I wondered what I had just done to my body. I was scared but oh so hopeful. Those moments of doubt lessened when I got home and realized I would be OK.
At the hospital, I was taken off of the heart and all diabetes medications. I left on pain and stomach medications only. The rest were already not needed. For a brief time, insulin was needed when food was readded to my diet. But after a few weeks, that was no longer needed.
Three months after surgery, I was given a clean cardiac bill of health, thanks be to God! Today, all test results return well within normal levels.
- My organs are functioning normally.
- My body is being healed.
- I can fit into normal seats
- I can do prostrations
- I can physically move like I haven't in 20 years.
- My mind is more alert.
- My soul and heart are grateful for a loving God!
- I can enjoy His creation.
- I am able to love the special people in my life more fully!
About Dr. Gary Korus and his team
The firs time I met Dr. Korus, I immediately felt at ease. Today, I can tell you that God has blessed him. He is a phenominal surgeon and has a caring heart. He has been given gifts by God and is sharing them all with us.
Karen (the nutritionist) and Debie (Dr. Korus' assistant) are also so helpful, warm, caring and knowledgeable. I cannot believe how on top of things Debie is. She has a smile and guides you through the whole process. She is the one that makes things happen! While Karen helps us all learn how to eat. That is not an easy job when you are talking to people like me! And yet, Karen does it so calmly and in such a way that you know she really cares.
