Sharon Z. "I am a different person than I was 20 months ago, inside and out."	Richard C. "My health is great now — no sleep apnea, gout, or diabetes and my blood pressure is perfect."	Sandy C. "This surgery has changed my life and brought me so many blessings, I would do it over again, no question."	Rita E. "My closet is full of clothes of every color of the rainbow. I don’t have to worry about if the color will make me look too big."	Carl J. "I can now make it to the top of the stairs faster than some of the younger police officers, AND breathing normally."
Amy M. "I am proud of my accomplishment and that I addressed the problem before it got even worse."	Rosa F. "When I made the decision to have LAP-BAND surgery, I never expected so many changes to happen."	Amanda S. "It goes without saying what my life was like 120 pounds heavier. I had no life."	Cathy K. "For the first time in my life, I know I will never put my weight back on and I do not feel like I am on a diet."

Sharon Z.

I have tried everything to lose weight.  I have been successful many times but keeping the weight off seemed impossible. No matter what I did, the weight would come back. On top of that, I have had high blood pressure since an early age and really wanted and needed to get healthy and fit and to be comfortable in my own skin.

When it seemed like I was running out of options, I did some research to learn more about LAP-BAND surgery and gastric bypass surgery.  I knew 10 people who have either had the gastric bypass surgery or the Lap-Band — some of the Lap-Band participants had been successful and some had not. I researched the procedures in depth as well as doctors in my area. After consulting with my doctor, I decided that the gastric bypass surgery was the best choice for me, so
I had my surgery on April 12, 2007.

After surgery, the first few days were a little rough. Because of a lot of scar tissue, the pain was more than I expected. However, I was in constant contact with my doctor and within a few days, I felt much better. I was only off work for a week and then resumed normal activities except for lifting.

What I like most about Dr. St. Laurent is that he always took time for me.  I felt like I was his only patient.  He never hurried during my consultations even if he had a room full of patients.  He never stood up while consulting with me.  He sat down and addressed all my concerns.  Even when I would have no questions, he would ask me questions to make sure I was on the right path.  I am so glad that he is my doctor and I appreciate his dedication my success.

I am proud to say that I have lost 112 pounds and have kept it off for 1 year and 9 months. I credit my successful weight loss to the nutritionist, my doctor, and knowing that this surgery is only a tool and to be successful, you need to have determination and embrace your new life changes.

I love the way I feel now. I love the energy I have now to go out and do things. I no longer feel that I stand out in a crowd. I am more confident and like myself much better. I love clothes and how they look on me. I am a different person than I was 20 months ago, inside and out. I have a new lease on life and I am determined to make the most of it.

It has been a wonderful journey. I work on being fit and personal development.  Looking at the things I am able to do now versus what I could do 20 months ago, it makes me realize I was not living my best life. I am thrilled with the progress I have made and look forward to each new day of my journey.

I would definitely do the surgery again. It has changed my life so incredibly.