- Name: Jamie Salm
- Age: 41
- Surgery: Gastric Sleeve
- Surgery date: September 3rd, 2012
- Testimonial date: December 12th, 2013
- Surgeon: Almanza
I was 341 lbs on August 1st and was emotionally and physically at my wits end. I was addicted to food and it controlled my whole life. I saw an ad on Facebook about Weightloss Forever. I clicked on it and there began my journey. I saw the term Gastric Sleeve so began googling and searching the hell out of it. I read testimonial after testimonial and started getting anxious. Could this be it? My life changing epiphany? After what seemed like 36 hours straight of reading and contemplating, I decided this is what I was going to do. The first quote I received was $16000.... Ouch! Out of my price range. Then on one of the forums I subscribed to I saw the name Dr.Almanza. Again I googled his name and very soon realized this Dr. Was top notch....World renown ! To my chagrin the price was $ 4499 ....Yes! Affordable! I went on the website and began the application. The next day I nearly collapsed when I got a return email stating I was approved. They asked me for a date. I foolishly put in September 3 thinking maybe September 3 , 2013. Again I almost fainted when they replied that September 3 would work and how would I like to secure my deposit...... Holy crap! This was going to happen and become reality...that was the most nervous moment for me.
I booked my flight and before I knew it I was off to San Diego. Dr.Almanza's team picked us up at airport and drove us to Jerusalem Hospital in Tijuana. The hospital is not what I expected but once inside, the warm hospitality and professionalism re-assured me all was ok.
Checked in at 11 am and did not get surgery til 11 pm as it was a very busy day. That was ok with me, as I got to witness what the others went through and it settled my nerves. It seemed like a blur when they called me for surgery as I was in and out and recovering before I knew it. Again, expert staff treated me like a king. Was shuttled to the Hotel Ticuan, a 5 star hotel and began my re-cooperation. 24 hour nurses tended to us regularly and assisted us with meds and nourishment. The drivers were professional and made us feel very comfortable right up to the time they dropped us off at he airport in SanDiego.
For those considering this....stop contemplating it and do it. I am down 80 lbs in 4 months and my food cravings are gone. This surgery has changed my life and given me re-birth.
UPDATE: It is now 15 months later....I am down a total of 120 lbs. Maintaining my weight at 220 lbs. Have not gained an ounce since my surgery. This surgery is critical for anyone that is obese. It will save your life.
* This is an actual testimonial, however, your results may vary. For more information, please read our Testimonial Disclaimer and Risks of Surgery.