Kathy's story

I find so much joy in being able to comfortably get down on the floor to play with my 1-year-old grandchildren. I feel strong and have lots more energy. ~Kathy

I had an ideal experience when I underwent bypass surgery at Park Nicollet Bariatric Surgery Center in March of 2008. The pre-op instructions were clear and I diligently adhered to them, which I feel contributed to my good outcome. I didn’t have any anxiety about the surgery, because I felt very confident in Tom Jones, MD, and his staff, who had performed the same surgery on one of my family members three years before.

I used to snack all day. I couldn’t pass up the cookies, donuts and treats that are always around in my workplace. But now, food is not on the forefront of my thinking at all. I don’t have the burning hunger pains I used to have. My tastes have even changed. I love salads and fresh fruit that I never used to crave.

I still eat out frequently, but now I share a meal or order only a healthy appetizer that offers a good protein source. I usually say no to desserts, but when I do get a craving, I allow myself a small piece of dark chocolate.

I’ve lost 58 pounds since surgery, and my BMI is down to 28. I feel great and I have so much more energy. My daughter and I bike frequently, and I find so much joy in being able to comfortably get down on the floor to play with my 1-year-old grandchildren. I feel strong and have lots more energy.

I no longer have knee pain, or swelling in my feet and ankles. I’ve gone off all my hypertension and hyperlipidemia medications, but I’m continuing to monitor these aspects of my health.

I’ve had wonderful support from my husband, daughters, parents and close friends. One of my co-workers had the surgery several years ago and she, like me, feels it is the best thing that she has done for herself. She took me out for my “last lunch” before I started on the liquid diet pre-surgery. Of course it wasn’t really my last lunch, but she was celebrating with me and excited for me.

I was so excited when I got down to a size 14 and realized that I can now go into any store and find something that fits me. Now I can be much more selective in my clothes purchases. I also have discovered consignment shops. I get designer clothes at low prices and turn my old clothes in for resale. It’s good for the budget, and for the use of resources overall!

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