My Patients

 

Personal Stories

Betty Lee - Patient and current support group leader

Betty Lee Before Belly Balloon SurgeryI was a "chubby" child who turned into a fat teenager and adult. I dieted and lost weight - many, many times. And each time I lost, I regained much more. Before I retired, I worked hard at keeping my weight down. I tried just about all of the weight loss programs known to man (and woman). After all, I had to stand up in front of groups when giving training, so I had the incentive to keep trying. But, after I retired, it was all down hill. I reached my top weight of 245 pounds at 5ft. 2in. tall! I finally decided I couldn't walk very far without running out of breath, and I was very unhappy with myself.

Betty Lee After Belly Balloon Surgery

Seven people in my family had had gastric bypass surgery, and all of them were doing very well. In early 2006, I decided it was time for me to have the surgery. I started my research and I found there were no surgeons in Yuma, AZ, who would perform the surgery. Dr. Ellner and Alvarado Hospital were highly recommended. On April 14, 2006, I had my life-changing surgery. On February 14, 2007, I reached my goal at 125 pounds, just 10 months after surgery!

My husband says not only do I look great, he can tell I like myself again. I can now play golf, walk several miles and do many things I had not attempted in several years.

When I think about the future, I realize I won't have to be fat again. Thank you, Dr. Ellner!

Feel free to email me at leeleetruck@roadrunner.com

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