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Charnise lost 100 pounds with weight loss surgery

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Charnise wrote to us to share her weight loss surgery story.  This proud mom of 3 chose to have the gastric sleeve procedure and she is very happy with the results.  Here is what she shared with us:

Charnise weight loss photos

“My name is Charnise and I lost 100 pounds in 9 months. I had weight loss surgery in February 2013, and I can honestly said that was the best decision I’ve made for myself. After being married for 3 years and having 3 kids in 5 years, I let myself go. I was only 24 years old and I felt like I was 44. I was always tired, always had back pains, migraines, and asthma attacks. I knew it was time for a change.

I had gastric sleeve weight reduction surgery done. I’m on a low carb/high protein diet. I make sure I drink 100 oz. of a water a day and take my multivitamins. I do different workouts so that I don’t get bored and quit. I run/walk on the treadmill for 2-3 miles and do strength training on some days, and on the other days I do Zumba and workouts on YouTube at home.

Some people think that having weight loss surgery is the easy way out but that is not true. Not only is it a physical challenge but it’s also a mental challenge and emotional challenge. I battle my food addiction every day. It’s a battle everyday but it is definitely worth it. I feel good, I have much more energy and I love the person I see in the mirror. I feel my age now, I love the way my husband looks at me now and I really just love life.”

4 Things to know about Bariatric Surgery and Insurance

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Bariatric surgery has become recognized as the safest and most efficient way for someone who is morbidly obese to lose weight fast. For some people, the length of time it would take to lose weight using diet and exercise alone may not help them to avoid severe medical complications due to obesity. It may also be unwise for some people to exercise until significant weight has been lost to reduce stress on the joints and heart. Affording bariatric surgery has just gotten trickier, not easier over the years. Here are 4 things you need to know about Bariatric surgery and insurance.

How much will it cost on average?

insurance benefitsWhile the three main types of procedures are all priced differently, the overall average cost of any type of bariatric surgery will be about $42,000. The surgery itself can cost from 8 to over 16 thousand dollars, but that is just for the surgery. Bariatric surgery is a term used to refer to the process of preparing for the surgery and the recovery.  As a process, this can include extensive testing, therapy in some cases, in-patient recovery, out-patient recovery and follow up procedures. Unlike many surgeries that rely on one type of specialist and a generic support team; Bariatric surgery uses a specialized Bariatric team during the entire process and the whole procedure. This is why it is one of the most expensive procedures.

Candy lost 70 pounds with weight loss surgery

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Candy wrote to us to share her weight loss journey. She’s lost 70 pounds with gastric sleeve weight reduction surgery. Here is what she shared:

Candy weight loss story

“I started this journey over 8 months ago. I am a heart patient with a very rare heart disease. I retain a lot of fluid and it causes severe weight gain. To make a long story short, my cardiologist wanted to perform surgery to repair my heart, but at my weight of 260 pounds, it could not be done safely.  At that point my doctor and I decided that weight loss surgery was the best option for me if I had any chance of living.  I had gastric sleeve weight loss surgery on February 28, 2013. I have lost 70 pounds so far and I am still losing weight.  I now exercise 4 to 5 days a week, which includes Zumba class, and line dancing. I don’t stick to a strict diet, but I don’t eat fried food but once or twice a month.  I have mostly grains and wheat. To everyone out there I strongly urge you to exercise as much as possible.”

Toshi lost 80 pounds with weight loss surgery

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Toshi wrote to us to shared her weight loss story.  She lost 80 pounds after having gastric sleeve weight loss surgery back in December 2012.  Here is what she had to say:

“Hello My name is Toshi. I would like to share my weight loss story. Back in December 2012, I was tired of being the big girl with the pretty face. I have been battling with weight problems since 1996. I did so many fad diets and took pills until I had reached my heaviest weight of 255 pounds. That’s when I decided that enough was enough. I was blessed to be able to join a healthy lifestyle program through Kaiser. This program is required in order to qualify for the weight reduction surgeries they offer. After successfully completing the 3 month course, I had the gastric sleeve surgery on December 19, 2012.

Today, I have learned to eat smaller meals more often and incorporate exercise in my life. I actually changed my eating habits by eating more frequently. I eat 5 to 6 small meals a day. My meals consist of high protein and vegetables with “good” starch. I eat proteins like chicken and fish. I also cook my food by baking and grilling. I have little to no fried foods. I also feel that my success is due to the fact that I had to make it a lifestyle and not a “at the moment” decision. As for exercise, I keep it real simple. I’m walking 2 to 3 miles a day. I also love dancing on the weekends and Zumba class every once in awhile.

I am currently down to 175 pounds from 255 pounds. I hope to reach my goal weight of 155 pounds by the first half of 2014. This will be pure success for me because my 30 year high school reunion is right around the corner. I will be close to the same size I was in high school when I reach that goal. I just want women out there to know that there are weight loss surgery success stories out there. I am living proof.”

Toshi weight loss success story

Shawnda lost 178 pounds with weight loss surgery

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Let’s show some BWLW love to Shawnda.  She had weight loss surgery and has lost 178 pounds.  Here is what she shared with us about her journey:

“Just wanted to share my weight loss story . I had the gastric bypass weight loss surgery four years ago and I’ve lost 178 lbs. I am still working on it because the doctor says that I am still overweight. I am taking it one day at a time!!   My motivation was my children. I needed to live for them. I had the gastric bypass, so my eating habits have to be limited. No sugars, breads or sodas. I walked for about 30 minutes a day and went to the gym 3 times a week. My starting weight was 476 pounds and I am now 320 pound. I am still working on getting below 300 pounds. This transformation has taken place for the last 4 years and still going on. I would say to others, stay focused and keep your eyes on the prize which is your healthy lifestyle and long life.”

shawnda weight loss surgery

Cawaynna lost 73 pounds with weight loss surgery

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Cawaynna wrote to us to share her weight loss journey.  She’s lost 73 pounds with weight loss surgery and has provided a lot of details and a video gallery of her progress (below).

Cawaynna weight loss surgery

“I had the Gastric Sleeve surgery on October 24, 2012. On the day of the surgery, I was 277 pounds, but at my highest weight I was 293 pounds. I now weigh around 204 pounds. I was borderline diabetic and having problems keeping up with my toddler son.  I was also constantly getting depressed because of my weight and depressed about my overall appearance. I chose to have surgery after countless tries with other weight loss options, such as; Weight Watchers twice, Slim Fast multiple times, weight-loss pills, diet shakes and etc. The weight loss surgery is only a tool and it isn’t a permanent fix! It doesn’t work for some people because they believe it is a permanent fix and they don’t use it as a tool like they should. I still have to work out and there are foods that I’m unable to eat, but it’s all worth it because of the way I now feel and look. I went from a size 26 to now in between sizes 12 & 14.

Cawaynna weight loss storyThe picture where I’m in the green tank top with a pink head rap, was taken the October 23, 2012, a day before surgery.  The one where I’m in the flower printed dress is from June 8, 2013 (my birthday) and the one where I’m in a tube grey skirt are from September 26, 2013. The one where I’m in a white dress and jean jacket is from June 2, 2012.”

What was your motivation?

“My motivation for losing weight is and always have been my son. If your not going to change for yourself, at least try to change for the ones you love. I try to work out three to four times a week when I have the time. If I can’t get in a run outside for an hour or a walk, I do cross-training videos inside the house. You can find some on YouTube. I also use 5 lb weights for my arms and stomach exercises. I no longer eat red meat and have cut back on the pork products. I don’t eat bread unless it’s wheat and toasted. I have about 2 protein shakes a day, I use EAS. I don’t drink sodas and most high sugar drinks. This is all according to my surgery diet that I must follow.”

What is your advice to others trying to lose weight?

Cawaynna weight loss surgery“The advice that I want to give to those who are trying to lose weight is, do what you think you have to do to lose the weight. As long as it’s safe, do it. If I would have listened to those who didn’t want me to get the surgery, I still would be unhappy and struggling to lose the weight. I’m certain of that. And…you have to want to lose the weight for your health and not for others or how others may see you. Meaning, don’t lose weight because a man or woman might find you more attractive.  Those are extras that come with losing weight for yourself and for your own happiness. In the end, make sure your praying also, keeping yourself in the word and use God as your guide through your journey, because your going to need him.  My YouTube channel is Divadiordoll and Instagram @Divadiordoll”

Check out this video of her progress!

LaShunda lost 102 pounds

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Let’s show some love to LaShunda. She lost 102 pounds with weight reduction surgery, exercise and eating right.  I’m happy to share her weight loss story with you:

“Hello, this my story. I lost my Mom and without me knowing I gained over 95 lbs that took me over the 300 mark. Depression had sat in without me knowing it. I tried everything in the world and it did not work. My daughter  graduated in 2011 and after taking all the lovely pictures, I saw a different person. I went to True Results and got the Lap-Band® surgery . It is the best thing that I have done for myself in a long time.

Hit the gym 5 to 6 times a week along with zumba and eating right. Along with the assistance of the Lap-Band, I choose to cut soda’s, sugar drinks, bread, and most red meats. These items are the worst for me to digest. I also eat very small portions many times a day. Water is a very important part of my day. I try to drink half my body weight in just water. I now drink the cucumber, lime, lemon and mint detox, which is really good. My starting weight was 319 pounds and I am currently 217 pounds. I went from a size 28 to a size 12 . I have been serious for the last 2 years. I did not realize that I was that heavy. I went into a depression and did not know that I was there mourning the death of my mother. My advice to those that struggle is eat clean, move, drink plenty of water and get plenty of rest.”

LaShunda weight loss story

Lanise lost 158 pounds with Gastric Bypass surgery

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Let’s show some BWLW love to Lanise.  She lost 158 pounds with Gastric Bypass weight loss surgery.  After years of using different dieting methods, she is very glad about her choice. Here is her weight loss story:

335 lbs to 177 lbs! After years and years of Weight Watchers, Slim Fast, diet doctors, etc, Gastric Bypass was my last option. I love that after 4 years(this November) I still get full after a small meal! Yes, I have to take vitamins, calcium and b12s for the rest of my life.  I’m fine with that! My only regret is not doing it a decade ago!

My motivation: I was tired of carrying around this weight, tired of my back hurting and I wanted to travel more.

Eating habits: Once you have gastric bypass your are forced to change your eating habits. I hear a lot of people say that weight loss surgery is an easy way out, but in all reality it’s not. It’s a lifestyle change. You can not longer eat the huge portions. Some foods that you used to be able to eat, you may not be able to tolerate them. After 4 years post surgery, I still eat small portions, eat on smaller plates or on plates with sections.

Workout routines: I walk a lot and I try to get a least two days a week in the gym.

Advice for others: Do what’s best for you. Whether it’s weight loss surgery or doing it on your own, just be motivated and have faith in yourself.

Lanise weight loss photos

Denetra lost 67 pounds with weight loss surgery

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Weight Loss Story of the Day: Denetra lost 67 pounds with weight loss surgery.  She decided to have the gastric sleeve procedure as a tool to fight stroke and high blood pressure. Here is what she had to say about losing the weight:

“Hi, wanted to share my photo. I had the gastric sleeve surgery last year on October 9th 2012 and I have lost 67 pounds with exercising and eating right. It is definitely a struggle but I encourage everyone to find what works for them . The photos are 2010 top left, 2011 top right, 2012 bottom left, and today 2013.”

What was your motivation? “My motivation to lose weight was when the doctor told me that I had high blood pressure. I was borderline for a stroke because of my cholesterol being so high. I also had constant back and neck pain.”

How did you change your eating habits? “I changed my eating habits but nothing was working. So I decided to have the gastric sleeve in October 2012.  Now, I eat 4 oz of food every 2 to 3 hours. I drink lots of water. No sugars no breads no heavy carbs…no fried foods. I can’t eat and drink at the same time because of the smaller size of my stomach. It’s definitely an adjustment especially when I used to eat and drink at the same time. Do that now and I will regret it. I eat 1800-2000 protein a day. Its hard and expensive.

What did your workout routines look like? “I now workout 3 to 4 times a week. It gets difficult at times, when I feel like I just don’t want to exercise. I look at where I was to where I am at now.”

What was your starting weight? “I weighed 230 pounds”

What is your current weight? “I am 163 pounds.”

How long did your transformation take? “It has been one year (October 9th) since I had the gastric sleeve.”

What advice to you have for others who want to lose weight? “When losing weight we can get lost in the wrong things, such as wanting to change for others or wanting to be able to get into that special outfit.  However, weight loss is for you and your health. You have to want to change and do it to make you happy. It gets discouraging at times but  you should surround yourself with positive people who will support you. Losing weight is mind over matter. It matters what you think about yourself, so don’t mind what others think about you.”

Denetra weight loss photos Denetra before and after photos

Erica lost 77 pounds with weight loss surgery

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Let’s show some love to Erica.  She lost 77 pounds after having gastric sleeve weight reduction surgery earlier this year.  She went from 300 pounds down to 223 pounds. Here is what she shared with us about her weight loss journey:

“My name is Erica. I was a diabetic, had high blood pressure, and my knees & ankles were getting bad. My blood sugar levels were running anywhere from 250 to 270 and they started me on insulin. My doctor suggested gastric sleeve surgery to get my weight down and stabilize the sugar or death was the possibility I would face. I had weight lost surgery on January 29 2013. It was the start of my new life and I had the Gastric Sleeve done. My starting weight was 300 pounds and as of today, I weight 223 pounds (8 months later). I’m down 77 lbs. My goal weight is 190 pounds, so I have 33 lbs to go. I eat small healthy portions of food. Drink plenty of water and walk 5 days a week.”

What did you do to change your eating habits?

“My eating habits were a complete 360 from what I was use to. I started baking all meats. I eat baked chicken & fish. I use turkey products and cut beef & pork from my diet. Also, fresh vegitables are a big part of every meal. My portion sizes were cut to a 4th of what I use to eat.”

What did you do in terms of exercise?

“I work out 4 days a week. I walk a mile a day and lift weights to help try to tone my arms.”

What is your advice for other ladies who want to lose weight?

“My advice for others is to determine your love for yourself and make a commitment to yourself to take each day one at a time and if you have the will power to do it one day you will have that same power to do it the next day. You have to get healthy in the mind also to put it into action. And finally surgery is not all bad it can be a blessing for those that feel like they tried it all. I am no longer on diabetes medications or high blood pressure medication and I feel wonderful.”

Erica weight loss success story