Patient Spotlight
Rita Phillips
When was your surgery and who did it?
I had my Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass November 6, 2006. Dr. John Ganser is my surgeon.
What made you decide that weight loss surgery was the right decision for you?
I have fought the battle of obesity most of my life. I tried about every diet and gimmick that was developed through the years. I was the typical yo-yo dieter. I'd lose weight then put it back on plus more. I'd repeat this cycle through my lifetime. At the age of 50, I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. I was on about five different medications and still could not get any of it under control. And I hated having to take so many medications. Six years later, at the age of 56, my family doctor and I discussed gastric bypass and I decided this was what I needed to do for myself, to get me healthy before things got worse.
What was the hardest part about preparing for surgery?
Preparation for surgery was surprisingly easy for me. The hardest part was actually just waiting for my surgery date. I had put myself in the right frame of mind for this. I couldn't wait to start my new life that I was about to venture into. I did a lot of research in preparation of taking this important step. I had no second thoughts about the surgery at all. I knew it was the right thing for me to do.
How has your life changed since undergoing weight loss surgery?
I am more outgoing and confident. I have more energy that I could have imagined. I no longer take any prescriptive medications. I only take my vitamins and calcium now. All my co-morbidities have been resolved. From my all time heaviest weight, I have lost just over 100 pounds. I have gone from a women's plus size 22/24 to a misses 8/10. I am the coach of my granddaughters T-ball team this year and we are having a blast. I can run without getting out of breath, I can cross my legs and I can sit on the floor and actually get back up with ease. It is amazing! After losing my extra weight, I ended up, like most gastric bypass patients with all the loose hanging skin. So this past November (2008) I had my batwings removed, a full tummy tuck and some lifts etc. where it was needed. I feel so wonderful now that I have fully completed my weight loss journey. It has been 2 years and 5 months since my RNY surgery. I have maintained my weight with about a 5 pound fluctuation up and down. I am healthy and I feel sexy! Life is GREAT!
What do your family and friends say about the changes you have made?
I still get compliments from everyone. They tell me how proud they are that I have been so committed in staying healthy and making such an important decision in my life. I have had good support along the way. My granddaughters are always telling me how nice I look and now I can share clothes with them. (Smile) I am still me, just in a smaller, healthier body.
What advise do you have for others considering weight loss surgery?
My advice would be, "Do this for you, not for anyone else. Research all information so you are fully aware of the whole picture. This surgery is a tool. It can help you with your weight loss. You must not abuse it or you will not do well with it. Have the right mind set. Be ready to make a lifelong commitment to a healthier you. You will be amazed on how wonderful you will feel. It's important to have a good support system.
Why do you think you are so successful? What are your secrets to success?
I believe the reason I have been successful is, COMMITMENT and SUPPORT. I am proud of how well I've done. I reached my goal weight that I set for myself and I am happy and healthy. NO LONGER OBESE!
Would you do it all over again?
Without hesitation, YES! This has been one of the best things I have ever done for myself!
Rita Phillips