Dawn W.

July 2010; 2 ½ months post-surgery
(Surgery: April 23, 2010)

Today, I'm 10 weeks post-op and 55 lbs lighter. I just had my 2^nd fill and feel pretty great. If someone asked me to describe how I feel at this point of the journey, I would answer... "Optimistic!"

Although I still have a long way to go, I finally believe, I can get there. I'm eating well and exercising more than I have in years. Last week, I was actually able to cross my legs like a lady.

I am so thankful for my tool from Dr. Rehnke and Palms of Pasadena Hospital. I am also so very thankful for my family, friends, and faith, all of whom have given me the support and encouragement I need to get the job done.

Dawn W.

May 2010; 1 month post-surgery
(Surgery: April 23, 2010)

"Fit by 40" is my new motto! That gives me 16 months to get it together. I am now four weeks post-op and feeling pretty good. I have been on a liquid diet up until this point, and have only felt hungry on rare occasions. 35lbs are already gone and I'm so excited about the changes that are taking place. My energy level has increased. I am staying hopeful that getting this weight off will be the key to helping me get my back problems under control. Tomorrow begins the "soft food" phase of my recovery and I'm sure looking forward to using my teeth again.

For the first time, I feel as though I have the upper hand on beating this obesity. I will be forever thankful to all those who helped me get here.

Dawn W.

March 2010; pre-surgery

Obesity has affected my life in so many ways that it is hard to know where to begin. I am a 38-year-old female with a degree in respiratory therapy and Human Service. Most days, I cannot even leave the house due to severe back, knee, and overall joint pain. There are days that my husband must help me get showered and dressed in the morning because I am in too much pain to do it by myself. My doctors have told me that my spine is in bad shape and I will need to undergo more surgery for another rod placement... I cannot even imagine trying to recover from such an extensive surgery at this weight.

I feel as though obesity has robbed me of my future, my independence, and my freedom. I feel like a prisoner in my own body. I don't feel that I am more deserving of this gift than anyone else, but I know that at my age, I still have much to do and would love the opportunity to help others in the future.