Diet is a 4 letter word *

  • Name: Audrey Wilson-Howell
  • Age: 44
  • Surgery: Gastric Sleeve
  • Surgery date: May 9th, 2014
  • Testimonial date: June 9th, 2014
  • Surgeon: Dr. Almanza
I was not always an over weight woman. Actually was rather slim as a child. Was moderately muscular during my Marine Corp enlistment. Even owned a heath club and trained new members to use free weights for a few years after the corps. Yep, I was quite buff back in the day. That was then. This is now. Life happens. 1997 was the year my last of 3 daughters was born. I agreed to take Depo-provera after for worry free birth control. What a mistake. I gained 90 pounds as a side effect. My set point changed. My marriage changed. My health changed. My life changed.
Diet is a four letter word. I have lost remarkable amounts of weight by dieting in the past. Once, I kept the weight off for almost 3 years. But on May 9th 2014, I found myself weighing in at 266 lbs, 5'3" tall. My blood pressure meds (2) were just doubled in April. My Flexeril was no longer keeping the body aches at a tolerable level. I had just doubled my Cymbalta to help with the pains. I was headed down a very worrisome road. But..
I had the SLEEVE on May 9th, 2014. Today is June 9th, 2014, and I weighed in at 235 this morning. Already lost 31 pounds! It has not all been without consequence. The first week post-op was total HELL for me. But I survived and you will, too. But please note, the first week is wicked. You WILL need someone to help you. I'm a tough chic, but dayyyy-yum.
After the first week, I was craving foods I couldn't eat. Sometimes I would try to eat them knowing I shouldn't. I regretted it. You will do the same thing. (LOL) So, I have been close friends with yogurt and cottage cheese. Bean soup is also nice to me. Message me if you want more specific details about anything.
Life is very different. I don't regret the surgery, but I do miss eating favorite foods a little. I'm trying to change my perspective from: eating for enjoyment -to a new perspective: eating healthy to live. I think I'm gonna do well. I am feeling better... and- I no longer take meds for blood pressure management. And my need for flexeril is seldom. Not sure how that all happened, but it did. =)
I'll get some pics taken and post soon.
    * Please read our Testimonial Disclaimer.

    Enter your information to begin scheduling your procedure:

    Taking the first step toward better health starts with becoming informed. By creating an account, you’re allowing our team to provide you with accurate information, help coordinate next steps, and determine whether weight loss surgery may be appropriate for you.

    Many patients explore surgical options as part of a broader approach to managing their health, but outcomes vary by individual. Our role is to support you with education, coordination, and access to experienced providers so you can make an informed decision.

    We look forward to speaking with you and answering any questions you may have. Please note that individual results are not guaranteed, and all surgical procedures involve risks.