Following are messages, statements and opinions by the individuals signed here and they might not be in agreement with official AGH Bariatric Center of Excellence statements.
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My pics before surgery
and 3 months after...
On May 30, 2007 I had gastric bypass surgery at Allegheny General Hospital. On the day of surgery, I weighted 497.5 lbs. and was taking 14 prescriptions a day (22 pills) for diabetes, hypertension, thyroid, depression, acid reflux, and arthritis.
Now, 5 months later, I have lost 132 lbs., 12” in my waist, and 11” in my chest. I take 4 prescriptions a day and no longer need meds for diabetes, hypertension, acid reflux, arthritis, or depression. My stamina is coming back; I’m breathing easier and have more energy than I have had in years. I enjoy doing things I have not been able to do for a long, long time and am looking forward to going on a vacation to the beach with my grandchildren next summer.
When the surgery was first recommended for me, I was very skeptical. Since I have been through it, I wonder why it took so long for me to have it done. If someone is considering the surgery, the best suggestion I can give them is to learn as much as possible about it before hand, and go to the support group meetings people who have already been through the surgery are the best source of information.”
Bob C.
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My Journey back to Good Health:
“At 303 lbs., January, 2006 the sugar doctor informed me that I was insulin intolerant and out of control. I needed to lose weight or face the consequences. She referred me to Dr. Joseph Colella at AGH. I called and followed instructions. I was 63 years old when the laparoscopic surgery was scheduled for Friday the 13th of October 2006. Unbelievably, I had no pain inside or outside of my body after surgery. One year later October 2007 I weigh 186 lbs. I went from a size 26 to a 16! People don’t recognize me. I look and feel great! My blood sugar is under control. No more insulin shots. I take 2 pills twice a day. Blood pressure is normal, no more reflux or joint pain. I don’t mind going walking. Thank you Dr. Colella and staff, for a wonderful new life!”
Peggy
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Ask me once…and you will hear: “FANTASTIC!”
Ask me again…and I will hear: “INCREDIBLE!”
My case was a redo. Initial surgery was in 1993 with the VBG. At first, the weight came off quickly, but it became a constant struggle over the years to keep it off. In short, it all came back on, along with the back pains, knee pains, shortness of breath, etc.… It’s a constant battle and a curse to live with a weight problem! Especially when you don’t get to see or feel the successes for the dieting struggles! The continuous failures do a ticket on your psyche and reach the point where you just try to live with the loosing battle because you’re deprived of the successes that you would expect to experience from normal dieting!
Why live this way when you have an option?
I’m starting to feel the rewards of the Bypass surgery and the years of failing are diminishing!
Life is becoming a new adventure!
You must come back for part two of my story because I am only about half way to my goal weight right now!
Rose Ann D.
Rose Ann underwent conversion from VBG to Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass. Administrator.
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“When I was seven, I was seriously overweight, but by the time high school graduation, marriage and having six sons in 10 years came around, I weighed 290 pounds.
I had high blood pressure, gout, fibromyalgia, a hiatal hernia, GERD, respiratory troubles and needed a cane for walking. I had developed diabetes, which required 160-180 units of insulin per day.
Seeing Al Roker on TV, with his leaner body because of surgery, excited me to action. I found Dr. Colella in Pittsburgh, having capably performed over 600 operations. On November 22, 2003, weighing 308 pounds, I had surgery and dropped 30 pounds in 30 days. Plateau-ing sometimes, consistent prayer and diet helped me succeed.
My statistics are as follows
Before Surgery: |
After Surgery: |
|
Number of Prescription Medications taken each day: |
9 |
4 |
Blood Pressure: |
Hypertension and on medication |
Normal without medication |
Need for insulin to control blood sugar levels: |
160-180 units per day |
10 units per week |
Weight: |
290 pounds |
145 pounds |
Dress size: |
4X |
10-12 |
My 55th High School Class Reunion gave me a standing ovation celebrating half the woman I once was. This journey has been so worth it because I am so satisfied and happy!”
Joanne C.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When you look at my photos it is obvious what Gastric Bypass Surgery has done for me. Do I have any regrets? Only one. I wish I could have had the surgery years ago. I'm going to be 52 years old this summer and I feel like 32. This surgery is life changing physically and mentally. My body doesn't ache anymore and my self-esteem is through the roof. Many people ask me if I would have the surgery again because of the way you have to change your eating habits (smaller portions) and the foods you have to eat and drink. My response is I would do it in a heartbeat.
I truly feel the trade-offs are minimal compared to the results that are accomplished. My over all health is great and this surgery has given me many more years to enjoy. It has been my answer to a healthy and happy life.
Vicky