When my first grandchild was born, I decided that I needed to do something about my health. I wanted to be around for a long time to watch him grow up, see him graduate high school and college, and then dance at his wedding. Now I had a reason to make improvements to my health. Despite all my efforts, I had still topped out at 262 pounds. I did my research, went to a seminar, and took that first step.

WLS is not a "quick and easy fix." It takes time, it takes effort, it takes exercise, and it takes a good eating plan. It is a motivational tool that allows a person time to develop successful behavioral modification. WLS is an investment info a longer, healthier future for you and the people you are close to. It is a lifelong commitment to a healthier you.

Wow Moment: Three years after my grandson was born, I was visiting him and his family in Virginia. While I was there, we all went to the beach. I found myself running and pretending that I was going to tackle Benjamin to keep him from going into the water. WOW, we had so much FUN, and I didn't have to stop and rest or catch my breath. On our way back to their home, I realized that I could not have done that just a year prior. I had to thank my son-in-law for standing back and letting me have the privilege of playing with Benjamin that day. I had proven to myself that I could be actively involved in my grandchild's life.

Within six weeks after WLS, I was noticing that I was really feeling good. I had energy that I forgot that I ever had. I was better able to endure the heat of the Oklahoma summers and even the humidity along the Virginia beaches. The aches and pains, especially the one in my back, was gradually saying "adios." I no longer take cholesterol medicine or sleep with a C-PAP machine. I am loving life and looking forward to retirement and traveling.

My experience, while in the hospital and at each office visit, has always been pleasant. I always feel like I am getting "special" treatment when, in reality, we are all getting "special" treatment.

For me, I was anxious to lose weight but more excited about the other possible great side effects, like curing my esophageal issues as well as not having to take as much medication. Today I only take two medications. The cost savings in medicine alone has been worth it!

What would you tell someone who is considering WLS? When they say you have to have your head in the game, it is so very true. Your entire life is going to change dramatically. I heard that prior to surgery, but you don't "get" that until afterward. A good support system is a must, probably the most important factor to get you through this journey.

It is overwhelming yet exciting to shrink into a different size each month, for the first six months especially. When I first started losing weight, I thought, "Wow, if only to be able to shop in the regular women's section, how wonderful that will be." Now that I'm a size eight, I still can't believe that I could get even smaller. I never imagined spending so much money on clothes, and it was a factor I only slight considered. So save for wardrobes, especially if you work in a professional environment!

I haven't changed on the inside, yet everyone treats me so differently. I welcome the courtesies that were far fewer when I was large, but it has been a real sociological journey to experience how people in general treat you when you are a "normal" size.

Probably the biggest "wow" is that my career has taken off much more since the surgery, all because of what I would attribute to people's perceptions of weight and worthiness.

In what ways has WLS impacted your life? My career has improved due to increased self-esteem. I have far more energy, and I actually want to exercise. I sleep less and feel more rested because my love of life has re-awakened. I love the fact that I can't finish an entire small plate of food, let alone what they serve in a restaurant. I love being able to shop for cute clothes again. I am able to participate in sports that I only dreamed about, like golfing, waterskiing, soccer, and biking. By far, the best thing that has happened to me since surgery is my love of activities now.

How has your health changed since surgery? I'm far more active, and my cholesterol is near perfect now. I went from eight medications a day to only requiring two.

How would you describe your experience with your surgeon and the staff? Very supportive, friendly, and professional. If I had to do it all again, I would do it in a heartbeat because my entire life has changed for the better.

I felt it had gotten to the point that I was an embarrassment to my kids, and I wanted to protect my future health.

What would you tell someone who is considering WLS? I would tell them about the changes and positive effects it has made in my life. I have no problems recommending this surgery to anyone considering it.

What has been the biggest surprise to you since your surgery? Achieving all my expectations and seeing the unexpected reactions of my friends and family.

Wow Moments: Getting into my first pair of designer jeans...size 12...now they are too big! Actually buying clothes off any rack, not just the plus sizes. Being able to cross my legs! When my youngest daughter Kylie said, "Mommy, I can put my arms all the way around you!"

My weight loss has given me self motivation, positive energy, and a new zest toward my family and life.

How has your health changed since surgery? No more sleep apnea! All my joint and back pain are gone. I have more energy and just all over better health.

My first visit, Dr. Walton and his team made me feel like family, not a number. Each visit, I became more confident in their caring for my health as well as me personally. The hospital staff was just an extension of the same loving, caring treatment I received from Dr. Walton and the clinic staff.

I would like to thank Dr. Walton, Chris Corcorran, and all the staff for having faith in me and sharing with me how to have the strength to tackle and overcome the biggest hurdle in my life. Dreams really do come true!!

What would you tell someone who is considering WLS? Make sure you understand it IS a lifetime change.

What has been the biggest surprise to you since surgery? How much weight I lost in a short period of time.

Wow Moments: No medications for diabetes and no medication for high cholesterol.

How would you describe your experience with your surgeon and the staff? Excellent. They did a good job in preparing me for what to expect. The surgery went as expected. The hospital staff exceeded my expectations.

What made you decide to have WLS? Tired most of the time. Needed to lose weight for the sake of my good health.

If you are not ready for a lifetime change in your habits, don't consider WLS.

What has been the biggest surprise to you since your surgery? How little one can eat and be full and stay that way until your next meal.

Wow Moment: The fact that the weight I've already lost has made such a difference in my clothes and, more important, my attitude.

The surgeon was very good and had explanations for any questions as did all the staff at the clinic and hospital.

I think I've said it all except "Thank You!"

My sleep apnea and daytime drowsiness were worsening. My knees hurt, and my energy was zero. I wanted to be able to play with my two grandsons without getting exhausted and worn out.

If you have tried diligently to lose weight on your own and have had the "lose - gain" cycle over and over, it's time to stop the nightmare and take positive action and get it done!

I have so much more energy and stamina. I have a desire to dress better and have more confidence in day to day life.

Wow Moments: Buying pants in the junior department and still buying too big! Seeing photos of myself skinny.

In what ways has surgery impacted your life? In every aspect! Confidence, energy, stamina, and my outlook on life.

My sleep apnea is gone. My knees don't hurt. My snoring is gone.

I have only praise and positive things to say about the clinic, nurses, Dr. Broussard, and all the staff. Wonderful, awesome, and so caring! Wished I'd done it sooner!

I was tired of being tired. My back, hips, and ankles hurt from standing all day. I grew very tired of hating the person looking back at me in the mirror. I did not enjoy life the way that I knew and had known was possible.

The WeightWise Program and WLS WILL change your life. If you follow the guidelines, you will be successful. If you cheat (potatoes, pasta, sweets), you can sabotage your weight loss.

What has been the biggest surprise to you since surgery? People do treat you differently. I think you become more aware of this after weight loss; the discrimination and biases seem more pronounced. I have also been surprised at how easy it is to fall back into old eating habits - comfort foods and snacking. Old habits die hard and can sneak back when you least expect them.

Wow Moments: I never told any family members that I was having WLS. After six to nine months, I saw my sister-in-law. She became furious because she thought my husband was with another woman. My sister walked right past me in the airport. My grandsons love for me to take them hiking and fishing. I have no trouble keeping up with their pace.

In what ways has surgery impacted your life?
1. No more C-PAP (for sleep apnea)
2. No joint pain
3. I have more energy.
4. I can keep up with my grandsons.

My sister and I went on vacation. It was great to have no shortness of breath, no joint discomfort, and no difficulty hiking all over Arizona and the Grand Canyon. Life is fun.

Dr. Walton and his staff are always supportive and helpful. They answer questions and give you the tools to lose weight.

Do this for yourself. You deserve to be happy and healthy. WeightWise and Foundation Surgical Hospital will help you help yourself.

Prior to having surgery, food and thoughts of food consumed my life. I had limited, short-term success with many diets but always struggled with thoughts of food while dieting. I always regained the weight I'd lost plus more. I was tired of feeling like a failure and tired of having food consume my life.

Think long and hard about the surgery before you decide to have it. Make sure you are having the surgery for the right reasons and the right motivations. That is, after all, a big decision. Also, don't be afraid to ask your surgeon all the questions you have. Make sure your questions are answered before you have surgery.

Being the first (gastric) sleeve patient, I wasn't sure what to expect. I lost 80 pounds in six months! I didn't realize how quickly the weight would come off, and I've been amazed with the results.

Wow Moment: Going from a size 20 to a size 4. WOW!!

Before surgery, my weight really impacted my self-confidence and self-esteem. Those issues are just gone now. My self-esteem improved, and I am more adventure and willing to try new things. I am happier overall.

I chose to have surgery to prevent weight-related health problems. My weight loss relieved a lot of pressure and pain off of my feet, back, and joints.

Being an employee, I already had full confidence in the surgeons. I see them operate every day, and I know how talented they are. Foundation Surgical Hospital has a very talented and caring staff who took great care of me.

If you are going to have weight loss surgery, you are at the right place to have it!

What made you decide to have WLS? I didn't have any energy. My knees were getting so bad I could hardly walk. My feet hurt. I wanted to be able to play with my grandchildren.

What would you tell someone who is considering WLS? PLEASE check into it. It's worth it!!! I feel so much better.

What has been the biggest surprise to you since your surgery? It has been so easy to lose the weight.

Wow Moments: I can cross my legs!! I'm out of women's sizes!!

My knees don't hurt, and neither do my feet. I have a lot more energy. I can do so many more things around the house, and I have more energy to play with my grandchildren.

I am off my medication for my cholesterol. I don't take anything for arthritis, and I've cut down on my blood pressure medicine.

How would you describe your experience with your surgeon and the clinic and hospital staff? It's great!! They make you feel so good about yourself each time they see you. I'm VERY pleased with them.

What made you decide to have WLS? Several reasons. My kidneys were shutting down, knees and feet were hurting. I was so tired after working all day that I was exhausted when I got home.

What would you tell someone who is considering WLS? Check it out. This surgery and recovery was a breeze!

What has been the biggest surprise to you since surgery? Rapid weight loss and the amount of energy I have now.

Wow Moments: I still wear an old belt that now wraps around my back. After a year and a half, my co-workers are amazed at my new look.

I have much more energy now. I am now able to climb the Glass Mountains with my grandchildren.

My kidneys have improved, blood pressure has lowered, and I don't have to take eight to twelve Extra Strength Tylenol for arthritis pain.

Dr. Walton and all the staff went beyond what I expected. They were all very friendly and helpful. The only complaint I have is that Dr. Walton has not developed a cure for baldness!