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Gastric Sleeve success: Elizabeth D. (55)

BARIATRIC
PROCEDURE:

Gastric Sleeve surgery

EXCESS WEIGHT
LOSS TO DATE: 

148 lbs

BARIATRIC
SURGEON:

Dr. John Cheregi

I was blessed the day I met Dr. Cheregi.  He is with me every step of the way and is always available should I need anything or have any type of questions.  He is personable, and you know instantly he truly cares about you not just as his patient, but more importantly as a person. 

My Journey

Prior to having surgery, I had basically become immobile.  At my heaviest, I weighed 325 lbs. I had uncontrolled diabetes; and at one point, my A1C was over 13.  In addition, I had sleep apnea and was on medication for high blood pressure and cholesterol and 3 different medications for diabetes.  Even though I had lost some weight, in my mind I knew that I was not doing well and was afraid that I would not live much longer if I continued the way that I had been.  That is when I decided to pursue bariatric surgery.

When I first met Dr. Cheregi, I finally felt that I had hope.  I felt an instant connection with Dr. Cheregi and came away from our meeting feeling that he truly cared and was not judgmental on how I had let my weight get out of control.  What he cared about was “let’s get you healthy”.  I will never forget those words. 

Once the weight started coming off, I had immediate benefits to my health.  One week after surgery, I was no longer taking anything for diabetes; and by the end of the first month, I was no longer taking any medication.  I also no longer have sleep apnea. In addition, it was found during my surgery that I had cirrhosis due to a fatty liver.  However, once I started losing the weight, this improved.  I ended up losing a total of 148 lbs.  I now take my dogs for walks, garden, and do whatever I want and choose to do without needing help.  Even the type of exercise I do has changed.  I started doing CrossFit about 1 ½ years ago.  CrossFit is such a rewarding, complete workout, and I never thought I would be one for lifting weights, but I love it and love the muscles I’ve developed.  Over time, I was able to lift 150 lbs.    

While everyone’s weight loss journey is different, the one thing they will all say is having the right doctor is key.  I was blessed the day I met Dr. Cheregi.  He is with me every step of the way and is always available should I need anything or have any type of questions.  He is personable, and you know instantly he truly cares about you not just as his patient, but more importantly as a person.  I have had a successful journey and God-willing hope to continue with a healthy, fulfilling life.   There hasn’t been one time when I regretted going down this path.   My only regret…was that I didn’t do this sooner.

ATTEND AN INFORMATIONAL SEMINAR

Dr. Cheregi and Dr. Chang invite you to learn more about Advanced Bariatrics and how you can take control of your life with bariatric surgery. Click below to see the time and location of upcoming seminars.

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