- Name: Margaret Anne Koelling
- Age: 63
- Surgery: Gastric Sleeve
- Surgery date: February 25th, 2015
- Testimonial date: November 10th, 2015
- Surgeon: Dr. Almanza
I've waited to give my testimony after a good amount of time because that is what I was interested in when researching this surgery. I had my surgery Feb 24th 2015. As far as the hospital experience I was amazed at the organization and care I received. Arrived on a Tuesday and returned home on Thursday . I never experienced much pain and any digestive problems. I spent the first 2 months learning how to not hurt my new stomach. In that time I did lose 28 lbs. . Throughout the months I learned it would be a slow process for me. I will go 3 to 4 weeks and stay the same weight and then lose 4 to 5 lbs in 5 days and then repeat. I started out at 208lbs ( I'm 5'4") and today I'm weighing in at 147lbs. This is after 4 weeks of the same weight. My goal is to be in a normal range on the BMI chart. That range for me is 110lbs to 140lbs. 7lbs to go just to reach normal. Having lost slower then most people I think it helped my skin from sagging to much. I did lose hair in months 5 and 6. Luckily I have a lot of hair and it seems to have stopped being a problem. I can eat almost anything I want but I don't want a lot of the things I used to love. I eat a lot of cheese and beans for my protein as meat doesn't seem to be as appealing as before. I have so much energy and love going down in clothes sizes. I haven't purchased to many new clothes as I have daughters that have provided me with lots of things. Once I am in the mid 130s I might go on a shopping binge.
I would highly recommend this procedure and this hospital! Best thing I have ever done for myself. I only regret I didn't do this years ago. The price was fantastic compared to having it done here in the U.S. The care was the best I ever recieved while being hospitalized. Pre surgery they left no question unanswered and walked you through every aspect of the procedure . Going to Mexico was no big deal. Just minutes from the border. Safe area to walk around. Met some really fine people from the U.S. And Canada.
If you feel trapped in a large body and it affects your happiness, DO IT. I'm so much happier from morning to night. I wake up and want to do things. I love hiking and its so much easier and less painful. People notice not just the weight loss , they say you seem more relaxed and happy.
