Something had to change before my health declined further. I was prediabetic and suffering from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. I also have a heart condition and had reached the point where even simple tasks like climbing the stairs were difficult. I had to stop halfway up to catch my breath and would avoid any form of exercise — parking as close to shops as I could and asking others to fetch things from the other room.
I was ashamed of how I looked and my self-esteem was at an all-time low. My husband left me; he no longer found me attractive. I wanted to hide from the world. My GP referred me to the gym and, reluctantly, I went along — but I soon realised that the gym was something I needed to do alongside lifestyle changes such as weight loss and better eating habits.
For the first time in my life, the food noise stopped.
It changed EVERYTHING. Literally everything. Six weeks after surgery I was at the gym and back to light training, and I noticed real differences in my eating habits — both in the amounts I ate and the choices I made. For the first time in my life, the food noise stopped. It allowed me to make healthier choices and not crave sugary and fatty foods.
The weight came off quickly, although not as fast as some others were experiencing. This was actually a good thing, because it meant I could mentally adjust to my rapidly changing body and adapt to my new life.
Research. I am studying for a master’s in Health Psychology, and research is my strength. I read reviews of the team, the surgeon and the aftercare, and I was confident that the level of care offered was the best. The hospitals used were brilliant.
Yes, yes, yes! From my very first consultation with my amazing surgeon Aruna, to every interaction with office staff, psychologists, dieticians and physiotherapists — everybody supports and helps. It’s not just about weight loss but behaviour change, and that takes time and knowledge. The support was, and continues to be, outstanding.
Mr. Aruna Munasinghe graduated from Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospital, London, in 2001. He specialises in bariatric, upper gastrointestinal, and general surgery. As an experienced surgeon, Mr. Munasinghe is one of the national trainers in bariatric surgery and an accredited trainer in endoscopy.
Each balloon represents a stone lost
Each balloon represents a stone lost
Each balloon represents a stone lost
Each balloon represents a stone lost
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