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.