Heather H.

Procedure: Gastric Sleeve*
Total Weight Loss: 105 lbs

I did not realize how much better I would feel after surgery, both physically and mentally. I had no idea how I truly felt going through my day to day life. Now, after surgery, I feel physically better and I am mentally stronger. This has taught me how to use food to fuel my body, how not to get into bad habits with food and how to have a healthy relationship with food. The physical energy I have now is amazing, especially being a mom of 4.

Being able to keep up with my kids in general has been a huge benefit. Not only physically, but just having the desire and motivation to want to do these things because I feel better, has been huge.

I want to keep sharing my journey with as many people as I can! This has changed my life in so many ways and I have been documenting my entire journey on TikTok. This has helped me hold myself accountable, helped me educate others on my experience and helped, in one small way, end the weight loss surgery stigma. I have been humbled and grateful for the opportunity to be a support system for others and to help motivate and cheer others on in their journey. I enjoy talking to others about WLS any chance I get.

While I was not on any medication before surgery, I often felt like a ticking time bomb. Between my mom and dad’s side, there is a history of diabetes, thyroid issues, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart issues. The older I got, the more this worried me knowing the path I was on. I was diagnosed with PCOS years ago and for the first time in my life, I now have normal periods, my body is actually functioning the way it needs to be and for a woman who has never had that, its very exciting.

I would encourage people to look into surgery, ask questions and schedule a consultation. I spent 9 months researching the ins and outs of weight loss surgery because I wanted to know the good, the bad and everything in between. The reality is that this is not an easy button, this is a lifelong commitment. This tool, when used properly, can help you reach those goals that may have been unattainable before. It has changed my life in every way possible and Dr Snow and Olivia are absolutely amazing. I cannot recommend St Louis Bariatrics enough.

At the age of 39, I finally feel like ME! I finally feel like I am the person I was always meant to be!

*Results may vary