srthomas1974
I met Dr. Weber in April of 2008 after my Dr. told me that at my current weight of 350 pounds if I did not take immediate action I would be dead before the age of 40, something that at just 34 years old with 2 children I could not fathom. I went to see Dr. Weber and he explained the process of roux en y surgery and the dedication it would take and that it would be a lifetime commitment. I just thought yeah, lets get rid of this diabetes, high blood pressure and asthma so I can live past 40. As Dr. Weber had me see a series of specialists to sign off on my surgery I went through and prepped for what I had no idea would be a forever altering second chance at life. On July 28, 2008 weighing 327 (I had lost a few pounds) I was wheeled into the OR not realizing who would be coming out. When I woke up I was gasping for air (very natural for obese patients) but gradually regained full consciousness and orientation to my surroundings. I was not hungry, in fact I didn't think of food. I read all the literature and Dr. Weber came in to see me and said "everything went good". I told my husband just 1 hour post-op to help get me out of the bed, which he did and I began walking around the hospital. I did not stop walking and just 3 hours post op bent over to touch my toes. I was determined to live and unaware of the changes that lied ahead. I went home thinking I had it all down but in fact 3 weeks post op cried on my living room floor and contemplated suicide because I couldn't see forever without food. It's not forever, it just feels like it and the brief depression is normal. I started walking during meal times and gradually was up to 5 miles a day. The weight peeled off and at 1 year post op I had lost 200 pounds (and I have maintained that loss). I had changed though. Mentally I had to gain security with the men that came out of the woodwork, confidence in buying clothes, learning how to eat "in the moment" meaning being conscious of every bite you take. I never vomited, never post op for 2 full years. I did tempt myself and have a couple of bouts of dumping syndrome, which is horrible and no person should willingly subject themself to that. I have very little excess skin, I do not have flabby arms but mother nature and gravity have taken place. I wear a steady size 8, I can eat/drink pretty much what I want but quantity is the key. I remain committed to the gym 5 days a week, including lifting weights. I have restrictions and that is, not too much bread, almost no sweets (damn chocolate cake) and no soda - EVER. It has been a long, hard, uphill struggle, none of it easy. I have an ulcer, my hair is very thin and staying that way, I had to have my intestines untangled (surgically) and struggled with learning to accept the skin on my belly, breasts because it is a reminder of what I went through to get where I am. I am a true survivor of many ordeals but obesity was the toughest. Without Dr. Weber I would not be here - PERIOD. So, Dr. Philip Weber I want to reach out to you and thank you for the 2nd chance at life which I cherish every day and yes, I made it. I tell others about my struggle and success and let me tell you, without Dr. Weber this world would not be as great. He made a difference in my life FOREVER and he gave me back my life by doing the surgery. I thank you I am eternally indebted to you (Dr. Weber) and I thank you every day.
About Me
Before & After
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