Patient Success Stories

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Karen - Surgery Date: 11/28/2016

Karen Takes the Next Steps to 'Go On a Loser Binge'

At Bayfront Health, we understand how challenging weight loss can be. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one third of American adults are morbidly obese, increasing their risk for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers, and keeping them from an active and happy life.

We also know that it's never too late to take control. Our weight-loss program offers proven solutions and compassionate support when traditional options haven't worked. Like other men and women we have helped, we are here to help you enjoy your own life-changing success.

Recently, Karen began that journey. She is a single mom and unit secretary at Bayfront Health Port Charlotte that works evenings. She has tried exercising and a variety of fad diets. About eight (8) months ago however, when she stood on the scale, "it scared me," she says.

Karen immediately scheduled an appointment with her primary care physician. He prescribed a drug that is used to decrease appetite and help individuals lose weight. She did lose some weight but the process was slow. And she knew she couldn't take it forever. At her next monthly visit, he suggested she look into weight loss surgery and schedule a meeting with Dr. Geoffrey Roelant, board-certified general surgeon, to discuss options.

"I was still a bit reluctant at first," says Karen about meeting for the first time to discuss surgical weight-loss options. "But, I did my research and went in prepared to ask questions. I met with Dr. Roelant and Kelly, the program care coordinator. They spent three (3) hours with me reviewing everything and answering all of my questions. By the end, I felt so comfortable with them and the plan they outlined that I proudly exclaimed, 'let's go'".

Karen worked with Dr. Roelant and the team to prepare for surgery. Bayfront Health's weight-loss program includes a team of specialists in addition to a surgeon and care coordinator, including a dietitian and wellness therapists. Working closely with patients and their primary care physician to create a personalized plan that promotes each individual's physical and emotional well-being is key.

Karen's surgery was set for Monday, November 28. Two (2) weeks before surgery she was placed on a high protein liquid diet which incorporated 64 ounces (oz) of fluids. "As a treat, I could have sugar-free Jello-O pops. They are really good and made for a nice end of day treat. I also took sugar-free flavored packets, added water and froze them to make slushies."

The procedure Karen had is called a sleeve gastrectomy and is often referred to as 'the sleeve'. This procedure involves the removal of approximately 80 percent of the stomach. The remaining stomach is a tubular pouch that resembles a banana and reduces the amount of food that can be consumed. Overall she was in the operating room for about one (1) hour and she was on her way home following a two (2) day hospital stay.

"Following surgery I felt really good. I had some tenderness in my belly but that's about all. Everyone came to check on me, including the rehab team. They were in the same day as my surgery to help with getting me up and moving. They help with various exercises like the log roll. This is a method used to get in and out of bed. I didn't realize how much you use your stomach muscles when doing an everyday task like that.

Jennifer, the program dietitian, came in so we could discuss next steps with my diet. In addition to the two (2) weeks prior to surgery, two (2) weeks following I continued the liquid diet. Then I met with her in the office to transition to a mechanical soft diet. This type of diet consists of foods that are easy to chew and swallow such as cooked fruits and veggies, ground meats, soft cheeses, and other dairy products. Basically any food you can mash with a fork that contains high proteins. Overall, I am to consume 60-80 grams (g) of protein as well as my 64oz of fluids.

I am using an app to help with my daily goals and have signed up and joined a Facebook page that consists of only others that have had weight loss surgery, or what they call those that have made the decision to go on a loser binge.

Today, I am 3 weeks post-op and am feeling really good. I've lost 34 pounds. I am really looking forward to each and every day that I get to spend with my son. There were many things that my weight prevented me from doing and participating in. Now each and every day I can do a bit more. And that in itself is the most rewarding."

When asked what one other thing she would like others to know, Karen replied, "Surgery isn't an easy out for weight loss. You have to be determined and put in the work such as eating healthy and exercising."

Karen, as with anyone considering weight-loss surgery, has made a lifelong commitment. At Bayfront Health, Dr. Geoffrey Roelant and the team offer many resources to help you understand your options, and throughout your entire journey. To learn more, call (941) 766-4564 to schedule your own free, private consultation with Bayfront Health's Care Coordinator.

And check back periodically as we follow Karen with her weight-loss successes.