Best decision ever! *

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  • Name: Tamasailau Hunkin
  • Age: 30
  • Surgery: Gastric Sleeve
  • Surgery date: February 24th, 2017
  • Testimonial date: May 19th, 2017
  • Surgeon: Dr. Mario Almanza
When I started my weight loss journey I was 415 lbs. I had a 30 day pre-op diet and weighed in at 415 pounds, by surgery day February 24, 2017 I was 375 lbs. Today is May 19, 2017 and I weigh 305 pounds! Life before surgery was alright. Growing up I was heavy, but very active. Being Polynesian, most of our family gatherings revolved around food. In high school I was a 4 sport athlete, I have always been thick, but never so morbidly obese. I even went to college on a scholarship to throw shot put and discus. I worked out twice a day, 6 days a week and ate healthy 95% of the time. Then life happened. Eventually, I found myself working 60 to 70 hour weeks, I was stressed most of the time and ate anything and everything.

I am getting married in August of this year and eventually my fiance and I want to start a family. I had a dream that I could not run around with my kids and play and have fun. It hurt to think that if I remained overweight, I would not be able to enjoy my own kids.

It took me a long time to decide that I wanted to do the surgery, but I had 2 aunts go to Dr. Mario Almanza and I was able to watch them lose weight, be more active and just live happier and more full lives. Running around with their children and grandchild. Here I was, 20 plus years younger and I could not even walk up a flight of stairs without being out of breath. That gave me the last push I needed.

If I could do it all over again, I would have done the surgery years ago! My life has totally improved 100 percent since having the surgery. I'm way more active, I fit in clothes that I have only dreamed of wearing. I am more comfortable around others and even with myself. I am extremely grateful that I made the choice to do the surgery. I am grateful to Dr. Almanza and his entire staff for being so attentive, precise and thorough. From even before the surgery till even now, they still reach out to you to check up on how you're doing and how your progress is going.

If you are having doubts about the surgery, just know that it is truly a "life style" change; however, it is one worth making. To date I have lost 105 pounds. I do NOT regret having the surgery. My life is so much better now. So, thank you for reading this and thank you Dr. Almanza and your entire network/team. I will forever be grateful! I will continue to post pictures on my journey.

PS: I run up and down those stairs everyday! =)

    * This is an actual testimonial, however, your results may vary. For more information, please read our Testimonial Disclaimer and Risks of Surgery.

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    The time to regain your health is now! Shed those extra pounds and don't be camera-shy any longer. No more people simply saying "you have such a nice face". It has worked for thousands of patients of ours. Sounds good? Give us a chance to earn your trust and help you regain your health. We're excited about the opportunity to be part of your journey to health, and we're looking forward to speaking with you and helping you soon. Please note that results may vary and surgery involves risks.

      * The testimonials, statements, and opinions presented on our website are only applicable to the individuals depicted, and may not be representative of the experience of others. For more information, please read our Testimonial Disclaimer and Risks of Surgery.