From Memorial Health System
Fresh start. Resolutions. Healthier living. This month, these terms are heard everywhere. January brings with it an overwhelming number of self-imposed expectations, many of which are focused on health and wellness.
The truth is that most people won’t keep their resolutions for long. In fact, a recent study found that only 9-12 percent of people fulfill their New Year’s commitments. However, better health is within reach, and help is available to achieve it. One example is Stone County resident Donda, who took steps to reach her goals and improve her quality of life.
Regardless of what diet or exercise regimen she tried, Donda was struggling to control her weight. She was pre- diabetic, and her blood pressure was high most of the time.
“I needed to do something to get my life back, as I have children and I want to live long enough to see them grow and succeed,” she says.
She heard about gastric sleeve surgery and learned she was a candidate. In this procedure, surgeons create a small stomach “sleeve,” or pocket, that is shaped like and reduced to the size of a banana — usually holding about 3 ounces. After the “sleeve” is created, the part of the stomach that is left over is removed. A smaller stomach produces much less of the hormone that causes the sensation of hunger, so patients feel less hungry, eat smaller portions, stay full longer and experience improvement in their overall health.
“Before the procedure, I was tired all the time, and I didn’t have any motivation to get up and do anything at all,” Donda says. “I was depressed and just didn’t have any quality of life.
“After the procedure, I gained so much confidence, and when the weight started falling off, I could tell I was feeling much better and could do things without being out of breath. I could go run and play with my kids.”
Donda describes her recovery as “absolutely amazing,” and she fortunately didn’t experience any issues following the procedure.
“I highly recommend anybody struggling with weight and health issues have this procedure done,” she says. “If I could do it over again, I would. I wish I had known about it sooner!”
Donda knows that it takes dedication to make sure she has lifetime success.“There is nothing easy about having weight loss surgery; hard work is still the name of the game, and if you don’t stay focused, things can get out of hand,” she explains. “I appreciate the opportunity to share my story with others. This really has been life-changing, and I am so glad I did it when I did.”
Memorial offers both primary care services and virtual visits. Learn more by visiting wearememorial.com or by calling (228) 867-5000.