Before

Christine

"My LAP BAND journey has been absolutely amazing... I have struggled with obesity my entire adult life. Because of my weight problem, I had high blood pressure and constant back and joint pain. I was miserable with no energy or self esteem. I was a yo-yo dieter, always able to lose but never able to maintain any weight loss. In fact, I always gained back more than I lost, and after my second child I found myself extremely overweight and unsuccessful at my attempts to lose the weight and keep it off. I was just about to give up the seemingly never ending struggle.

Then my life changed... I chose to meet with Dr. Peter O'Brien to discuss WLS options. He was brilliant, extremely caring and helpful.

He took a great deal of time to discuss my options. He listened to me and clearly explained everything to me. His entire staff was incredibly kind and supportive as well. I knew I was going to be in the very best hands!!!

On December 5, 2006 I underwent LAP-BAND surgery at Sanford USD Medical Center. The surgery and recovery were a breeze. I have done extremely well with the band, it has has given me my life back. The band is a wonderful tool and with the help of Dr. O'Brien and his staff, I have had a thorough education as to the causes of weight gain and the steps needed to take to achieve a healthier well rounded outlook with regards to what and how to eat.

To date I have lost 106 lbs, and I have gone from a size 28 to a size 8. I no longer take high blood pressure or pain medication. I feel wonderful, and have so much energy! My self esteem has improved immensely and I now truly enjoy my life. I have met so many wonderful people along this journey and have made life long friends in my support group. I am so happy I had LAP BAND surgery!!

Before

Judy

"If someone asked me today if I am glad I had weight loss surgery the answer would be a resounding YES. I am very happy with the results. I had lap-band surgery on Feb 16, 2006 and to date have lost 108lbs. My life has changed in ways that I would have never imagined. I am able to lead an active lifestyle and I actually enjoy exercising! Daily activities do not wear me out like they used to and I have enough energy to chase after my daycare children all day.

I have gone from fairly low self esteem to feeling good about myself and how I look. I have control over the food not the food controlling me.

Dr. Glatt and his staff at Sanford Clinic – Surgical Associates are very professional and caring. They are always there if needed. I am so thankful that I chose Dr. Glatt and his staff to do my surgery."

Before

John

"John has lost a total of 170 pounds and went from a size 54 pants to a size 38. He enthusiastically states, I’d do it again! Dr. Graham told me what to expect.

My energy level was low in the beginning but it came back…just follow what they say. They are there for you."

Before

Becky

"Gastric bypass surgery has changed my life. I lost weight and gained self confidence. I am so much happier today. It is not a miracle cure, but it sure helps. Besides the surgery, you also have to follow a diet and exercise.

You have to make the commitment in order to succeed. The continuous support of family and friends has helped me to be successful.

I have more energy now and feel TERRIFIC! I went from a size 26/28 to currently a size 4/6. Who would have thought? Not me! People do not even recognize me. The only regret I have is that I didn't do it sooner. Gastric bypass surgery has changed my life for the better, and I cannot thank Dr. O’Brien and his staff at Surgical Associates enough."

Before

Carol & Perry

"How have our lives changed...WOW! We are way more active than ever before. We find ourselves riding bikes with our kids, walking, swimming...things that we had never done as a family before because we were physically unable to do so. We spend more time outdoors and try to find more and more active things to do as a family. In addition to spending more time with our children, we are installing life long healthy eating habits for them as well. We are looking forward to several camping and hiking excursions this summer.

Self-esteem...that's another big one! I find pass mirrors in the store at the mall or wherever and find myself lingering just a little longer.

I remember little accomplishments along the way that may seem silly to others...no longer shopping in the plus size section, trying on clothes and actually ENJOYING doing so, being able to wrap a regular size towel around my body after a shower...and best of all, my children being able to wrap their arms completely around me when they give me a hug!

I have to say the support groups at Sanford have been an integral part of our success on this weight loss journey. We have enjoyed coming to learn new things and also for support from others regarding struggles as well as to be an encouragement to them."

Before

Ty

"My story is identical to everyone else! Following a roller coaster of diet experiences that began after the birth of my son, I made the decision to permanently accomplish what seemed to be an endless and unsuccessful task - weight loss!

I completed an extensive research of the various weight loss surgeries, including the popular bypass surgery, of which I chose the Lap-Band procedure. The Inamed Lap Band was right for me because it was the least extensive and least invasive of all available procedures. I had the procedure on a Thursday and returned to work on Sunday - only 3 days later!

Following my initial consultation with Dr. Peter O'Brien and his staff in February 2004 and awaiting my insurance companies approval, my Lap Band procedure was completed on April 22, 2004.

This was truly the beginning of the rest of my life.

My life would be forever changed! My self esteem and personality were given back to me along with all the other things that were lost in my excess weight. I am forever grateful to Dr. O'Brien, his staff and Sanford USD Medical Center!"