Bariatric Surgery – Michelle’s story*

To celebrate Streamline Surgical’s tenth anniversary we are looking back and sharing patients’ stories of success from the last ten years.

This week we are delighted to be sharing Michelle’s story. When mobility became a real issue for Michelle she made the difficult decision to have weight loss surgery.

“I was in constant pain if I stood up or walked too far. In fact my lower back ended up giving up. I had to get taxis everywhere. It got to the point where I was going to have to give up the job I loved,” Michelle explained.

At her heaviest Michelle weighed 30 stone but making the decision to have weight loss surgery wasn’t easy. Michelle's Weight Loss Surgery

“Deciding whether to have weight loss surgery or not was a really difficult choice. At the time I was focused on the possible risks of the procedure.

“I joined the Streamline Surgical forum, which was great as I was able to talk to people already on their weight loss surgery journey.

“It was after speaking to Mr Shaw Somers, who advised me that if I didn’t do something about my weight I might not make my 35th birthday, I realised it was a risk I had to take. It’s the best risk I have ever taken!

“Weight loss surgery has given me my life back and a normal life at that!

“Since my bypass I have got engaged. Before my procedure I never wanted a partner because of my lack in confidence. That changed after losing weight- I felt I should give it a go.

“I have gone from not being able to move about to travelling the world and seeing some beautiful countries. I have so many happy memories since my weight loss surgery that I wouldn’t have been able to do before.

“I have been able to live out my dreams, such as walking around New York, swimming with dolphins and even going on a helicopter ride.

“But it is the everyday life changes that really remind me I made the best decision ever. I can enjoy having fun with my two nieces, who are my world. Instead of making excuses I can go out and do amazing fun things with them.

“I can now go shopping in normal shops. I am a shopaholic but I don’t mind as I’m making up for lost time!

“Family and friends often tell me how proud they are of my weight loss surgery journey, which means a lot to me. They have been so supportive. From day one they have been there with words of encouragement and praise.

Michelle's Weight Loss Surgery Journey“After my bypass I joined a support group that meets once a month. I wish I had joined before my weight loss surgery, as I have made some great friends who are always there to understand me and advise me too. It really was the best decision I have ever made.”

Now Michelle has achieved so many dreams what is next?
“I’m currently learning to drive, it is the last thing left for me to achieve. Before I wouldn’t have been able to get the seatbelt on but hopefully now I’ll past my test soon.”*

Is your weight stopping you living life? Not sure if weight loss surgery is right for you? Book a consultation with our world-class surgeons and take that first step to living again.

 

*Weight loss surgery results and benefits vary and are different for every individual.