Victor: LAP-BAND Surgery
First and foremost I would like to give honor to God who makes all things possible.
Hello everyone who has or is considering weight loss surgery, this is the result of my extraordinary journey. First you must pray over this drastic decision and decide what best fits your needs, because as I’ve heard over and over again from friends, family, and associates, “You just need to push away from that table and stop eating so much.” This is true but when I got to the point of 324 pounds I knew I had to do something before I would be knocking on deaths door. I had very uncontrollable high blood pressure, high cholesterol, fatigue to the point of being drenched in sweat after doing the simplest of tasks such as, putting on my shoes and tying them, getting dressed, walking from one room to the next, or getting enough energy to go to work.
My depression level and self esteem about myself and my appearance had sunk to an all time low. Self isolation and eating for companionship was a way of life. I was making bad decisions, setting my standards low and compromising my morals and integrity. I was letting my weight problem effect my everyday life as I was letting people take advantage of me. This may be a little deep for many, but I’m sure a lot of people can relate. However, you do have some overweight people who have high self esteem, but I truly feel if given a choice in the matter they would rather be thin. Not simply for vanity reasons (which isn’t such a bad thing LOL), but for health reasons.
After my weight loss surgery, I am no longer on blood pressure or cholesterol medications. I have far more energy to face the daily challenges that some people take for granted. Having weight loss surgery was a tough decision to make, because you hear of the dangers and complications associated with the surgery. However, for me this was the journey I chose and I have no regrets. I almost forgot this was supposed to be a testament of Palmyra Surgical Institute and Dr. John Bagnato M.D., FACS and his very professional staff.
I live in Macon, Georgia 112 miles from Albany. My parents took me to the surgery September 9th, 2010 leaving home at 6:00 am, and I was back in my bed in Macon before 3:00 pm the same day and pain free. I was prescribed pain medication, but chose to use over the counter liquid Tylenol instead. Praise be to Dr. Bagnato and his staff, and foremost to God for a job well done. After a year and five months I’ve gone from a size 56 waist to a size 42. To reiterate this is a very personal decision that cannot be taken lightly. After trying the traditional way, pray it over and go fourth. Glory to God for a successful procedure and watch out, God is not finished with me yet.
Good Job Victor, you are HOT! I too have had surgery 12/7/10 & hope to be heading down your path really soon. Keep up the good work & self motivation with dedication.
You look so healthy and happy! Way to go!
Your story is such encouragement to me. I live in Macon and I am struggling with the decision for the surgery. You helped me to realize it is the right thing to do! Thanks for being an inspiration to many in Macon and hopefully I can share my story with you. Congratulations!
My husband and George had the lap-band surgery.We live in Warner Robins Ga. Close to you,Great story
Thank you so much for your testimony, WOW to find someone else who gives God the glory first and formost and then others second for allowing God to use them to bring about His plan. Keep up the great work and continued to be blessed and Hang on for the ride cause like you said, God is not finished with you yet.
Congrats,
Carol B
Keep up the good work. And yes Dr. Bagnato & his staff are GREAT!
Victor,
I am very happy for your accomplishment. Yes, this is an accomplishment. I noticed the difficulties you were having with all of your weight. You look GOOD! Keep up the good work.
I AM TOUCHED….LET ME DRY MY TEARS
LOVE YA
Great story Victor, I am considering the Lap Band surgery as well.
Thanks
I would have never known Victor struggled with the weight gain as he did. I met him at his smallest and I too was in pretty good shape at 30. Now 46 245lbs, the experiences and anxiety Victor had, is my life story today. The health issues, constant aches and pains, constant visits to the doctor, declining health is not God’s plan for our lives. This story has touched me and has given me a greater insight on this procedure. My heart is crying out for help! I am drenched in constant pain and depression yet I try not to complain. Forgot to mention a marriage of many years has very little meaning now. I now know, there is hope for me. God bless Dr. Bagnato and I pray I will have the opportunity to meet him some day.