In July of 2017, I was quickly nearing 380 lbs. Yes, you read that right, I was severely obese. With the support of my doctor (actually a NP), my husband & medication, I drastically changed my eating habits & began to slowly lose the weight. I looked better, felt better, and had more energy. Things were progressing well. By December 2018 I had lost 80 lbs. I was so excited.
But then, I hit a plateau. The weight stopped coming off. I wasn’t gaining either, but no matter what I did, that scale just wasn’t moving. Things stayed like this for about a year.
My doctor & I had been trying multiple strategies but I was still stuck. Then the scale started creeping back up. We had talked about bariatric surgery in the past but I just wasn’t ready. But in early 2020, I decided it was time to at least investigate bariatric procedures. Then COVID-19 took over and the idea was put on hold again.
However:
May 27th – I participated in a Facebook Live Q&A by Dr. Cheregi of Advanced Bariatrics. I got all of my questions answered and felt better about moving forward.
June 15th – After much prayer, talking with my husband & my PCP. I had my first appointment with Dr. Cheregi & I knew I had come to the right place.
My surgery was tentatively scheduled for 7/28, pending approval from the insurance company, and the outcome of a psychiatric evaluation & many medical tests.
July 6th – I got a call from Dr. Cheregi’s office that there had been a cancellation & my procedure could be moved up to July 14. I immediately agreed to the change.
Exciting! Now to do the 10-day presurgery diet in just 7-days. I was VERY strict with myself & actually lost at around 8 lbs that week.
July 14th – Surgery day. My gastric sleeve procedure went exactly as planned & I was released from the hospital in just over 24 hours.
July 22nd – Follow-up Appointment #1. I lost 19.6 lbs in 1 week!
Today – As of this morning I have lost approximately 30 lbs since I started my presurgery diet 18 days ago!
I still have a long way to go but I have decided to obey my doctor & my dietitian 💯%. I am also involved in a great support group through the hospital. I know that God brought me to this surgery at this point in time and that He will not let me fail.
I recently put the following scripture on my fridge so that I see it multiple times a day.
When you sit down to eat with a ruler, Consider carefully what is before you; And put a knife to your throat If you are a man given to appetite. Do not desire his delicacies, For they are deceptive food. Proverbs 23:1-3 NKJV
I have added a new category, Journey to a Healthier Me to make it easier to follow my progress. I covet your prayers, as I have a long journey ahead.
Wow! I’m glad your surgery went well and I’m praying for you on this new journey. You were brave to go through with this. Blessings Barb! ❤️
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I appreciate that. 💗
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Hi Barb !
I’m glad that your surgery went well. I am praying for you. 🌷🤗
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Thank-you my friend
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I will definitely keep you in my prayers and I look forward to more positive progress reports! 🙏
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Me too, you can never have too much prayer.
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Hi, Barb! I am proud of you and praying for you too! Lots of love and healing!!!!
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Thank-you my friend!
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Wow. Praying for you. ❤
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Thanks, I appreciate you!
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Glad to hear that everything went well!
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THANK-YOU
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Keeping you in my prayers Barb. Praise God that all went well with the surgery.
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He is the GREAT Physician ⚕
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What a testimony! It’s so encouraging that you trusted God, and did the necessary research. I pray you remain focused as He leads and guides you through this process, and may your health increase 100 fold. ♥
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💗
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I’m also glad the surgery went well! You’re in my prayers!♥️
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Thank you
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You’re welcome
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Wow. That is brave of you. And I love that you are determined too. Where there is a will, there is indeed a way. Glad to know you are making progress – a huge one in fact. 🖐
Expecting the progress share too. 😊
Stay safe ma’am. 🤗
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Thank you my friend
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You are welcome ma’am. 🤗
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I’m rooting for you, Barb! I’m happy your surgery went well, and your progress is coming along nicely! I’m looking forward to reading your new segment!
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😀
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Barb,
It is so wonderful to hear that surgery is behind you! I hope you are healing well, and I will pray for your health and wellness!
Adelaide
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Thank-you, I feel great
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God brought you to that surgery at that point in time and that He will not let you fail.
I believe you are healing well
You are going to be in my prayers tonight
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Thanks so much. It is not easy by any means but I know it will be worth it in the end!
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So glad your surgery went well!!! God bless you each day as you strive to have the best health possible. Jeremiah 33:6: “I will bring health and healing.”
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Thank you!!
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I am inspired by your courage and dedication, Barb!
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THANK-YOU
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You are welcome! 🙂
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Barb, I love your testimony. ❤
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Thank you Paula, that means a lot!
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