Happy I finally did it. *

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  • Name: Juliette
  • Age: 40
  • Surgery: Gastric Sleeve
  • Surgery date: February 16th, 2012
  • Testimonial date: August 16th, 2012
  • Surgeon: Dr. Almanza
I was unable to have bariatric surgery in the U.S. because my health insurance would not cover it & could not afford to pay cash for it myself. I began the medical insurance process 5 years ago at age 35. I worked it from every avenue I could for over a year, but to no avail. I gave up for a while & spent too much money on diets. My husband finally said I couldn't spend any more because it was just wasted. That's when i decided I would find a way to pay cash for surgery, even if I had to put it back $10 at a time. Through my husbands health insurance I found out we could put up to $5000 in a flexible spending account to pay for eligible medical expenses that insurance doesn't cover. Weight loss surgery was an eligible expense.

I went on line looking for a physician. That's when i found Weight Loss Associates. Though I knew many people who had had surgery and dental work in Mexico (I live in Texas), I had no idea there was entire network dedicated solely to this purpose. I found Dr. Almanza at the Jerusalem Clinic & he was running a special price. I knew almost instantly i had found my way. I think I was crying as i was sending emails & making phone calls to ask questions. I researched Dr. Almanza & The Jerusalem Clinic from several different outside sources to make sure they were legit. As a former nurse, I knew what to look for & I was happy with what I found.

I am an emotional eater. For 5 years I had tried all kinds of diets and had made many healthy changes, but the emotional eating was something I had been unable to overcome. Having the gastric sleeve done changed this for me. Going on liquids befor surgery was very hard, but i wanted the surgery worse than I wanted to have a hamburger with my husband. Recovery seemed slow, but I realized I had made a major life change, and change is slow and difficult. I was tired and grouchy for about 6 weeks after surgey, but then I started to get some energy back and the weight was.coming off fairly rapidly and my mood improved with each shed pound.

I was 318 pounds when i started my journey. I celebrated my 40th birthday 62 pounds lighter. It was the best birthday ever. I'm now down to 237 pounds, 81 pounds lighter than when I began. My goal is 180. The weight is coming off at a more normal pace now. My knees dont hurt anymore. The old injury in my foot doesn't hurt when I exercise. All exercise is so much more bearable. I follow the diet regimen the clinic sent home with me. Following it has helped me avoid some of the problems people have when they eat whatever they feel like on a daily basis.

I'm SO HAPPY I did this. I'm finally free to be me!
    * 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.