John.L

Hi, I'm John and I've finally decided to take the steps needed to regain control of my life. I'm 33 and I've been obese since third grade. I've never really known what it's like to be in shape. Over the last 10 years or so I've developed major back pains and problems, and my latest back issue had me miss work for three weeks, so that was the tipping point for getting this done. I have tried multiple times to lose weight, with some success, but I've never been out of the "morbidly obese" category, and I've always gained the weight back. I have a lovely wife of 9 years and a four-year old son that I'm really looking forward to having enough energy to keep up with!

The decision to have the procedure was difficult for my wife and myself to make due to the cost. My insurance unfortunately has a specific exclusion for bariatric surgeries so we will be paying substantially out-of-pocket. In the past I wouldn't have spent this much money on myself, but I need to take control of my health and my life before it's too late. I want to be able to do all these things with my son that I just can't right now, between the back pain and lack of physical capabilities. I have about 150 lb to lose (estimated... I've never been an ideal weight so it's difficult to see what will be a healthy weight), and I think/hope I can lose that within a year of doing the right things.