With a BMI of 35, I was at the lower end of what many would say was heavy enough to consider gastric bypass. I needed to lose 60 pounds to achieve a healthy BMI. However, after having been overweight (197 pounds and 5’2” tall) for almost 25 years and having a family history of obesity and food addictions, in addition to several of my own “diet” fails, I knew I had to do something sooner than later. My co- morbidities had begun to stack up. I was not only feeling the embarrassment and discomfort of being overweight, I had been diagnosed with diabetes mellitus type 2, hypertension, hypercholesteremia, sleep apnea, GERD, a torn meniscus in my right knee (requiring surgical repair), and my right hip joint was hurting when I walked. In addition, my overeating had become a mindless habit. I used food for comfort. It had become a tough habit to break. I was going to die young (my dad had died of obesity related issues at 41 years old) if I didn’t get my weight and co- morbidities dealt with. When I met with Dr. Fitzer for a consultation, I was surprised (and delighted!) that he agreed with my desire to have an RNY gastric bypass. I felt that it would not only help me to lose the weight reliably, but would also give me the “tools” to work on my mindless eating. I had been in counseling already for depression related issues, so getting a psychological assessment and referral was no problem. My psychiatrist and cardiologist both were on board with the plan Dr. Fitzer had for me. I am married to a very supportive husband who happens to be a physician himself. He had been concerned about my health for many years and was also supportive of my decision. Having the gastric bypass surgery last May 11, 2020, was one of the best decisions I have made for myself. It is not an “easy way out” as some might suggest, but rather an admission of a need greater than my own “will power” would offer. The surgery was successful with no complications. I was home within 48 hours and managing the immediate post op mantra of “walk, walk, walk” and “sip,sip,sip” to keep gas and dehydration issues at bey very well. Dr. Fitzer and his team, even during this COVID 19 time period, have been nothing but helpful and accessible for post op care and follow up. Their instructions on getting through the earliest of post op stages were on point and easy to follow. My blood work has remained excellent and my weight loss has been consistent. I am now six months post op and have lost 60 pounds and am down five clothing sizes. Most importantly, my diabetes is in remission, my GERD is gone, I can walk for miles without achey joints and my hypertension, hypercholesteremia and sleep apnea have improved tremendously! Additionally, although I will always have food addiction tendencies (similar to an addict of any substance), my surgical intervention allows me to have boundaries that keep me from eating mindlessly. One must eat wisely after having gastric bypass or the ramifications of discomfort will remind you when you don’t. It’s not worth the “extra bite” or the indulging in too much sugar/fat. I believe this is the only way in which I was going to have the opportunity to find better health. Now that I have lost the weight, I am enjoying a healthier, more active lifestyle with my family and can look forward to many more healthy years with them and (hopefully!) future grandchildren! I am feeling incredibly blessed and am now a huge cheerleader of those seeking a similar journey! Many thanks to Dr. Fitzer and his team for their expert care and giving me (and my family!) the opportunity to have this healthier me!
