Debra E. “I have a new life, a new outlook and I will never look back!” Surgery Date: September 2008 Surgery: Gastric Bypass What was life like before your surgery?   I have always been outgoing. I love my friends and family.  I enjoyed my work and was successful; however, I was not happy with me.  I had no energy, I was tired all the time, my diabetes was out of control, and my blood pressure was out of control.  I couldn't climb a flight of stairs without huffing and puffing for 10 minutes afterward. I couldn't play with my grandchildren, it was just too difficult. I traveled a lot with my work and had to carry my own seat belt extension for the plane. Life was not great.  As a nurse, I knew that I was at risk for heart attack, stroke, and a certain future of chronic illness if I didn't do something.  My husband worried, my kids worried, and while I told them not to worry, I did too. On a personal note, I held back so much of myself because I didn't want to put myself "out there".  I didn't like what I saw, how could others? What led to your decision to have the surgery? I knew that my health and well-being were at stake.  I knew that I was unhappy.  I knew that I had tried everything I knew how to try.  I felt that I had a lot to do...with my life, my career, my grandchildren, and for myself.  This surgery was my last hope.  I had to take the step or never reach the potential that I thought I had.   How was your experience with Barix? Barix was marvelous from the very beginning. They guided me through every step, they never left me alone. I mean, this is what they do. Barix understands that they are changing lives for the better.  Everyone worked as a team for the mutual success of patient and center. Barix is supportive and knowledgeable about every aspect of each patient and their journey. Many of the nurses and other employees have undergone the surgery; they understood me and their success was inspiring.  Their encouragement helped me to have hope. Every question answered, every fear, soothed, every success celebrated.    How is your life after surgery? I can't begin to describe how wonderful I feel.  I wish I had done it sooner.  I can exercise, play with my grandchildren, and RUN up those stairs now.  I am more confident, and willing to put myself "out there".  I am off all my medications.  My resting heart rate has decreased, my diabetes is gone, and my high blood pressure is gone. My constant edema is gone. I have a new life, a new outlook and I will never look back! Thank you Barix! What would you tell someone considering Barix? I felt like a failure.  I wondered WHY I couldn't lose weight on my own.  Don't waste ANY time on thoughts like this.  I can honestly say, having this surgery has been the best thing I ever did in my life.  I feel better that I have in over 20 years.  I feel healthier than I have in over 20 years.  I can't remember the old me. I love the new me.  You will love the new you too!