“I was active in sports during high school, but I started gaining weight right after graduation. I had no self-confidence and was overweight for the next 30 years.”

Leah tried several different diets and various exercise routines throughout the years, but nothing seemed to work. She would lose the weight but gained it right back. Leah became lethargic, sore, and, at times, depressed.

“The excess weight caused joint pain, back pain, headaches and occasional extremity swelling,” she said. “It limited me being able to enjoy my active hobbies and playing sports with my son — and then my grandchildren. I always had difficulty finding clothes that would fit properly, and I was very limited as to where I could shop for clothes. I knew I had to make a change.”

It took Leah about a year to make the final decision to have bariatric surgery. Her health and living an active lifestyle were very important to her, and she also had an inside look at what the Weight Loss Institute could offer.

“I work for Dr. Lee at the Weight Loss Institute, and during the three years I have worked there, I have seen how the surgeries and follow-up program at the Bariatric Center have helped so many people,” she said. “I decided I needed the ‘tool’ of bariatric surgery to aid me in the weight-loss process. I knew having the surgery would help me in the long term for permanent weight loss.”

Indeed it did. So far since her surgery, Leah has lost more than 70 pounds. She has more confidence and self-esteem and a renewed energy for life.

“I enjoy my active lifestyle now. I have been able to stop several of my medications, and I just feel healthier. Plus, I love all the options I have for clothes shopping now.”

The physical change came with a mental change as well.

“The first few months were a little rough, and I started asking myself if I made the right decision,” she said. “Once I was able to start eating more solid foods and had a wider variety of foods to choose from, I quickly knew I had made the right choice.”

Leah cautions anyone thinking about bariatric surgery to understand it is a major surgery and to learn more about the surgery, what it involves and what kind of follow-up care is required.

“I would definitely recommend the surgery, but I would tell them it is not just a quick fix — it is a lifestyle change. If they are not ready for that, then they should wait until they are.”

As for Leah, she has seen success — and loves her healthier life.

“Dr. Lee and the staff at the Weight Loss Institute are compassionate and committed to maintaining the program, improving the program and helping the patients with a successful, weight-loss journey. I have been so pleased with the whole process. It has helped me tremendously.”