Before & After VSG with Joan, down 85 pounds!
November 10, 2020Before & After VSG with Joan!
Why I decided to have WLS: Before & After VSG with Joan
My weight has been a challenge since I had a hysterectomy in my 30’s. I joined Weight Watchers about 10 times and continuously lost and gained the same 50 pounds.
In my late 60’s, I developed some shortness of breath and felt fatigued most of the day. I was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (aFib) or an irregular heartbeat and underwent an atrial fibrillation ablation procedure that helped to relieve my symptoms.
My doctor told me the best thing I could do for my health and longevity was to lose the extra weight. Dr. Seun Sowemimo was one of the bariatric surgeons her doctor recommended.
I checked out the websites and reviews of all the doctors and they seemed very good, but when I looked at Dr. Sowemimo’s videos of patients, they told a story that was so similar to my own. I called him for an appointment on the same day.
In March 2019, at age 70 and weighing over 300 pounds, I had the vertical sleeve gastrectomy and recovered without complications.
At 71-years-old, it’s truly a new beginning for me.
Before & After VSG with Joan
Name: Joan C.
Total Weight Loss: 85 pounds
Surgery Type: VSG
Surgery Date: March 13, 2019
Surgeon: Dr. Seun Sowemimo
Before & After VSG with Joan: My Surgery and Post-Op Life
A year later, I had lost 85 pounds and several clothing sizes. Recently, I was stunned to realize I could no longer shop in the plus-size department.
I was in Macy’s shopping with a friend and tried on some clothing from the large-size department, which I knew like the back of my hand. My friend took one look at the outfits on me and told me I needed a regular Misses size. That was a great day for me which I will never forget.
A few months after surgery, I joined a bariatric group fitness training just for people preparing for or who have already had surgical weight loss. I was consistently working out several days a week until the COVID-19 shutdown. I love that the exercise boosts my metabolism to burn more calories, even at my age.
When the coronavirus hit, I exercise by walking two miles regularly and use my exercise kike while watching TV. I also just ordered a stepper machine for home as well. I also try to attend every monthly bariatric support group meeting at the local hospital.
In December 2019, I saw my cardiologist, nine months after my VSG. My test results were so good, my doctor said he was taking me off his ‘sick list’ and only needed to see me every six months going forward. He was very impressed with the ‘new Joan.’
I have only one regret since I chose to have weight loss surgery last year; I just wish I had done this sooner. Weighing less allows me to do so much more--from being able to play with my nieces and nephews to stay out on the dance floor all night. I am finally comfortable in my own skin.
A Special Milestone / Non-Scale Victory
I have several!
- A big one was shopping for new clothes and heading to the "Plus Size" section and finding the clothing was too big. I haven't been there since I was in my early 40's.
- Last summer, down on the Jersey Shore, I was able to easily ride the Tilt-a-Whirl ride with my little niece. The safety bar closed over me with no problems and we had the best time ever!
- Taking a public bus trip and my hips rested in "my" seat. Every day, no matter how small, you can see a milestone.
- Simply riding your bike or walking a bit further than the week before and feeling good.
- Someone calling you on the phone just to say, “I was in Shoprite and walked past you, I did not recognize you…”
- These are the milestones that keep you going. I am looking forward to hitting that 100-pound weight loss mark.
How has ObesityHelp.com been a part of your journey?
The OH website is a great tool. I enjoy reading all of the wonderful accomplishments of so many men and women. It is truly uplifting to see their life-changing efforts and the joy it has brought them.
Great medical information, advice to stay on track, and good meals to make. It is a good source of reference for everyone that has made the decision for surgery, to become healthy, and enjoy a good life. We are not alone in our journey.
Share Your Before & After Success!
Celebrate your own Before & After WLS Success, milestones, non-scale victories, and inspire others! The OH team wants to hear from you to share your weight loss surgery journey. Visit our Before & After Submission page for details.
