GASTRIC SLEEVE SURGERY

I was 120lbs in the third grade. My doctor had prescribed me some pills and, at the time, I remember being so happy that I was losing weight. As an adult, I continued to struggle with my weight. In recent years, I reached my max weight of 285 pounds and became pre-diabetic. I have tried Weight Watchers, paleo, Nutrisystem, Atkins, the grapefruit and egg diet and the soup diet - pretty much any new trendy way to lose weight. 

I remember sitting on the edge of my bed and cursing every morning when I couldn’t reach my feet to put socks on. I was so ashamed and I had such low self esteem. Shame is powerful and depressing. When a friend of mine had weight loss surgery and was feeling and looking great, I started doing some of my own research to see if it could be an option for me. I thought to myself, “I could do this”. I had tried for years and spent tons of money on the latest and greatest weight loss plan, only to regain it all, plus some, each time. Having gastric sleeve surgery allowed me to lose weight very fast and I regained my self-esteem. Once I felt better about myself, it was easier to keep going. The results were thrilling! I could not have lost the weight without the surgery.

I would definitely recommend New Jersey Bariatric Center to anyone considering surgery. Everyone from the doctors, to the office staff, to the billing department, are awesome and will guide you through your journey with enthusiasm and facts to keep you informed and motivated. Dr. Goyal is so positive, up-beat, smart and he’s a skilled surgeon. His Physician's Assistant has always been encouraging and really helped prepare me before and after the surgery. The nutritionists taught me structure. It’s the advice that still gets me back on track at times when I am making bad choices. The monthly ‘Tuesday Talks’ support group keeps me motivated and it is helpful to go and share experiences and recipes.

My life has changed drastically since gastric sleeve surgery. I got my life back! I no longer sit in a pool of self-pity and self-loathing. When I meet a new client, I enter the room with a new confidence. My A1C numbers are now normal and not pre-diabetic. I have lost any sign of sleep apnea and no longer use my medication for acid reflux. Sex is now better! I have joined a gym and enjoy the treadmill and working out. In general, I have more energy and I feel great!

Since my weight loss I love that I can now see the scale below my belly. I can put my socks on without cursing. I love being able to cross my legs when I sit. When I go into the city, I am not daunted by the stairs to the subways or having to run for the train. I used to huff and puff my way through the city and now I am leading the pack!