Tami B. “I love life … my life.” Surgery Date: May 2007 Surgery: Gastric Bypass What was life like before your surgery? My life before surgery was not as I would like it.  I was tired all the time. I was taking insulin injections and pills, cholesterol meds, water pills, and high blood pressure pills. My legs were always swollen, and I could not exercise without knee and back pain.   I was becoming a social recluse. I did not like to go out, because I always felt like people were staring at and judging me because of my weight. My self-esteem was nonexistent and I was depressed. I had trouble buying clothes that fit or looked nice on my body frame.  I truly did not like myself. I was embarrassed at the way I looked. I kept remembering the size I was in my twenties, and could not understand how I got this way,  or how I was going to get back down to a smaller size.  I tried all kinds of diets and none of them worked. I was feeling lost, unhappy, depressed and desperate to lose weight.  What led to your decision to have the surgery? The doctor informed me that if I did not lose the weight, my lifespan would be considerably less.  He said I’d live maybe 10 more years at the rate I was going.  I was only 41 and my youngest was 12.  I wanted to live long enough for grandkids and to see my baby grow into an adult. I also wanted to feel better physically. I was tired of insulin shots and taking multiple pills for high blood pressure, cholesterol and water weight. How was your experience with Barix? They make you feel comfortable as soon as you walk in.  They actually have a waiting room that fits all sized people. The front desk clerk was very nice and helpful.  When you go for the initial consultation, they explain everything, including that it is not a quick fix but a lifestyle change, and that you have to work at it to succeed.  The nurses were nice and helpful after surgery and seemed like they really cared. You spoke to all the doctors and they explained everything. The aftercare was great, and the support is awesome.  I think all the care was exceptional.  I have never received that kind of care in a general hospital.  It has been 3 years and they still call to make sure all is going well, and to give new information on support groups and such. How is your life after surgery? I love life after surgery. I have more energy and I am able to exercise without pain.  I go to the gym 5 days a week and really enjoy working out now. I find myself clothes shopping all the time.  I love buying clothes now. One of the amazing things that happened was that when I bought a pair of pants online, they fit.  I did not have to send them back! My self-esteem is 100% better and my health is very good. I am no longer taking insulin shots, cholesterol pills or blood pressure pills.  I am very active and can do more things with my boys. My family is amazed at the transformation.  I take more of an interest in my eating habits and lifestyle. I go out and socialize and if anyone asks how I lost my weight, I let them know about the surgery and the changes it made to my life.  I love life … my life. Thank you, Barix! What would you tell someone considering Barix? Make sure it is what you really want and that it is for you. Before you have the surgery, investigate the procedure and everything that will happen beforehand and afterward. Make sure you realize that in addition to the surgery YOU have to change your lifestyle, eating habits, exercise habit, and your mental outlook.  The surgery gives you a tool to start with, but it is up to you to work at taking the weight off and keeping it off.  It takes hard work and dedication. But it is worth all the pain, sweat and tears.  Once you have the surgery, enjoy the transformation and the new life you will have.