“I look back and say to myself, I can’t believe I let myself get so unhealthy!”
My name is Heather and I am 43 years old and weighed almost 300 pounds a few months ago. Today I would like to share my story with many others who feel the same way and have experienced the struggles I encountered. I have been overweight most of my adult life, especially after having 3 children. My life has always been very busy I gave all my time to my husband, my kids, my job, my friends & family and by the end of the day I had nothing left in the gas tank for me. I let myself go until I realized this is not how I should be! Throughout the years, I tried many dieting methods: diet pills, workouts, shakes, low calorie diets, bought unlimited Diet books, joined the local support group to a point where I lived at the health center for 3 months. I lost weight, only to gain it back. I was ashamed and embarrassed that I could not keep that weight off.
I loved food and I lost control. I loved the taste, the texture and the aroma. In any celebrations I would be the first one to make a meal, dessert and snack. Food was becoming an enemy disguised as a friend.
One day, I realized I began experience severe chest pains and my legs began to swell up. At that moment, I realized something was seriously wrong and after having a frank discussion with my husband about my health, I knew I was finally ready to a make change. I wanted to be healthier, live longer and see my children grow up.
I contacted SmartShape and the helpful staff arranged my consultation with a surgeon. I felt at ease right away and everything went smoothly. I recovered quickly from the procedure and I knew that this would be life-changing! I also realized in order for this to work I had to do my part. The Lap-Band isn’t a quick fix but rather a tool to help me reach my weight loss goals. I was mentally ready to say “no” to unhealthy choices and “yes” to exercising. I started small with walking around the block once, then twice and eventually going for brisk walks in the neighborhood. I now go to the gym 3 – 4 times a week. In just 4 and half months, I lost 50 lbs and 16 inches and I am so thrilled! I am learning to take care of myself and how to say “no” to food when I am full. I am realizing that I am the only one who can take care of me.
I feel empowered and stronger. I am not ashamed to share with anyone that I have a Lap-Band and how it is helping me reach goals.
The staff at SmartShape have been so supportive through on-going webinars, to phone and always being available to answer my questions. Everything has been done for me with genuine care and my well-being in mind.