My Patients
Personal Stories
Maria
 |
| 9 Months After Gastric Bypass Surgery |
H
i, my name is Maria. I am 38 years old and had struggled with obesity for most of my life, my heaviest being 245 lbs. I had tried various diets and exercise programs, but my weight always seemed to bounce back, and I found it increasingly challenging to maintain a healthy lifestyle. After extensive research and consultation with my medical doctor, and me feeling like my health was deteriorating - I was diabetic with an A1c of 10, Glucose in the 380's, Cholesterol above 300, and I was suffering with depression and anxiety - I knew I was heading for disaster. With my health being at an all-time low and me being a single mom to a 10-year-old boy, I knew something had to be done. This is when I decided to undergo gastric bypass surgery and I met Dr Ellner, the angel who safe my life. After consultation and following the surgery, I knew I had taken the initial step to start a whole new life and get myself on track. I became completely committed to a comprehensive lifestyle change, including adopting a healthy diet and incorporating regular physical activity into my daily routine. It's now been 9 months since I underwent surgery, and I couldn't be happier with my decision. Currently I am 108 pounds down, no longer a diabetic, A1c is now 4.5, glucose 81, Cholesterol 150's, and i'm living my best life. My recommendation to anyone who is doubting weight loss surgery is - don't second guess it, go for it!
I won't sit here and say this will be the easiest decision you've ever made because that's far from the truth. There were those days where I regretted every second of my decision but something that I always kept in mind were these 3 things:
- I was in good hands (Dr. Ellner's)
- Stay postitive, and
- Stay consistent
Taking day by day, I knew I would reach my goal, and here I am today, able to share my story feeling proud and very accomplished, feeling like I gave myself a second chance at life. I do need to give recognition and thanks where it's due, and I couldn't have done this without you, Dr. Ellner and so I want to thank you for helping me and playing a huge role throughout my journey, and giving me my life back, for helping me be the best version of myself and being able to live and set a good example to my son. There are no words to describe how much you have done for me, and I'll always remember this for the rest of my life.
Respectfully,
Maria Santillano
If you have questions, you can email me.
