Temeka's Weight Loss Journey
Surgery: Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy
Date of Surgery: May 29, 2012
Weight Loss Since Surgery: 50 pounds
Tameka struggled with obesity her entire adult life until she decided to make a change by exploring weight loss surgery options at Georgia Regents Weight Loss Center. At only six months since the vertical sleeve gastrectomy procedure, she is down 50 pounds and feels like a new woman!
Temeka's Personal Success Story
What made you decide to have surgery?
Throughout my adult life I have struggled with being obese. I never experienced success with all of the methods I tried to use to get the pounds off. Although most people are scared of surgery, I was very excited for my procedure. I dreamed for years about the day that I could lose weight and be considered "normal" again. It isn't normal to sit and watch your kids run and play because you get tired so quickly. It isn't normal to have to take several medication for diabetes, high blood pressure and all of the other health issues that came with being overweight. I knew it was time to change my life.
Life after surgery
This surgery has given me a new lease on life and something to look forward to each morning I wake up. I look forward to being smaller and healthier, wearing cute clothes, walking in high heel shoes and feeling good on the beach. I've been big all my life and it is sometimes hard to imagine it any other way. There’s still lots of work I have to do with exercising and eating right, but I’m ready for the challenge.
What do you like about your results?
The numbers I see on the scale now have never appeared my entire life. I have started moving more and enjoying walks with my kids. We have fun together and it really feels good going outside and getting some fresh air.
How long did it take before you noticed progress?
The progress was immediate! Within the first two weeks after my surgery, I had lost a total of 15 pounds.
How has weight loss success improved the quality of your life?
My greatest improvement was the immediate results in controlling my diabetes. My hypertension has improved and I feel better overall. I am able to move easier since the weight loss. I have also followed my physician and nutritionist instructions on the suggested diet plan along with exercise to achieve my weight goals. I plan on adding more forms of exercise as I continue to heal.