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January Spotlight Patient

Melissa Thompson

Hello!  Two and a half years ago I weighed 277!  My BMI was a very unhealthy 49.  It was horrible.  I had trouble walking up a flight of stairs and the only thing I ran after was the ice cream truck!  I was on blood pressure medication and wore a size 24!  Today I am a much healthier size 8, weigh 141 pounds and my BMI is healthy 25. 

Prior to surgery my life was miserable.  I am a preschool teacher and I could not get on the floor with my children.  I had trouble running around the room with the children.  I hated it.  I also had one of those embarrassing moments in a restaurant when a child came up to me and punched me in the belly with his finger!  I was horrified and just wanted to cry.  His mother didn't even apologize.  I quickly left.  I also couldn't fit into booths or movie seats, and once on a plane, I had trouble hooking the seat belt. 

I tried all the diets - Adkins, cabbage soup, fasting, Nutri-system, PhenPhen - you name it.  I finally discussed Bariatric Surgery with my GP and he referred me the Georgetown Bariatrics.

Getting started on this process was not easy.  My first insurance did not approve me.  When I finally got insurance that did I had to complete an insurance-required physician-supervised diet trial, but once that was finished, the process went very quickly.  I have been thrilled with the results.   

The other key to success is listening.   I have done everything I was told.  I follow the diet plan.  I watch my fats to this day.  I also NEVER eat rice or any sugar and have not touched any soda since the day of surgery.  You can live without pop!  I was a true pop-aholic.  I drank 2 to 4 2-liter bottles of diet pop daily pre-surgery.  So when I say you can live without pop believe me that is saying a lot!  Crystal Light comes in many flavors and with those handy take long packs I am never without a flavor for my water.  

My other treat is Skinny Latte from Starbucks.  It is fat free and Sugar Free.  The large one has 20 grams of protein!  Get that protein any way you can!!!  I get my protein in daily by adding protein powder to my coffee every morning.  This way I don't have worry.  I also like that when I eat, I feel full faster.  I am still amazed at how little I am eating. 

I have also taken up doing marathons.  I have completed five half marathons since losing my weight.  I never thought I would walk one mile let alone 13 at one time!  It is a great feeling to finish such a feat!  I try to do a 5K monthly.  There is usually one in the area every month and they are great fun and addictive.  I exercise regularly also.  It gives you a great feeling and starts off your day the right way. 

I am off my blood pressure medication since the surgery.  My Primary Care Physician has been impressed at how I am keeping off the weight.  If I had one complaint... it would be the money I have had to spend on the new clothes!  It is fun though - running into friends you have not seen in a while and they don't know you!

This process has changed my life for the better.   I would definitely do it again.  I wish I would have done it years ago!  Georgetown Bariatrics is an awesome clinic!  The staff is supportive and understanding.  Listen to them and they will change your life for the better!