Tracy H. “I have a second chance at the life I want to live.” Surgery Date: February 2010 Surgery: Gastric Bypass What was life like before your surgery? When I married my husband, I weighed 125 pounds. I was always on the go. We have two wonderful children, Jessica and Mike. After the kids were born, I got lazy. I let myself go. I stopped doing things like bow hunting, exercise classes, and activities with my husband. I was always tired and spent a lot of time just sitting around. I didn't want to get off the couch. I could not go on fair rides with my kids because the seat belts would not fit, or the bar would not clear my stomach. It was a pain to fly because the seat belts would hardly fit around me. I was so unhappy and had no self-esteem. Then one day I realized I was 38 years old and weighed 280 pounds. I tried weight loss pills...failed. I tried pre-packaged food plans....failed (plus, I couldn't take the taste anymore). My cholesterol was so high that I was on medication. I was close to being pre-diabetic. I felt like life was passing me by. I had to do something.  I recall looking in the mirror and saying, "What am I going to do?” What led to your decision to have the surgery? My mom had had weight loss surgery at the Barix Clinic so we talked a lot about it. She suggested I go talk to Dr. Poplawski about the surgery. Then I spoke to my husband and children to see how they felt about it. My family was very supportive. Barix surgery was the best decision I ever made. I could have gone to a hospital closer to home, but I chose the Barix Clinic because I already knew the level of care I would receive with their supportive staff, and I had 100% faith in what they do. I knew this was the place for me. How was your experience with Barix? It was and is wonderful! It's like having another family. Everyone is so nice, friendly and supportive. My doctor, Dr. Poplawski, cares a great deal for his patients. He is a very busy man, yet he always finds the time to make sure I’m doing okay. How is your life after surgery? Since my surgery I have a whole new outlook on life. I have a second chance at the life I want to live. I feel great and full of energy.  I ride my bike 3 - 4 times a week around Lake Cadillac (7 miles). I go on walks with my husband and I can keep up with him without getting out of breath. I can finally do things with my kids that I use to shy away from. Like now I can actually go to the fair and fit in the rides. I sit on an airplane and don't have to struggle to get the seatbelt around me. My cholesterol is normal and I'm off my medication. I can't recall any time in the last 6-7 months that I actually napped like I used to. There is no time to nap when you are spending time with your family. I like to hear people tell me how proud they are of me and I feel good when people tell me how good I look. I am 6 months out and I have lost 103 pounds. I am eating better and staying away from SUGAR! My husband is also happy with my progress. Sometimes he doesn't recognize me when we get separated in the store. It's so funny. What would you tell someone considering Barix? Get it done. What do you have to lose except the weight? This clinic is a huge support system. You will feel like a different person! If you are thinking about weight loss surgery, do it.  It will be the best decision. It was for me.