Written Weight Loss Success Stories
Video Testimonials
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JESSICA DAVIS (Gastric Sleeve)
JESSICA DAVIS (Gastric Sleeve)
Jessica Davis Has Lost 70kg (90% of her excess weight) Following Gastric Sleeve Surgery.
At 146kg Jessica’s quality of life was distressing. She struggled with her weight throughout her teenage years and felt she was constantly being pointed out as ‘abnormal’. At 18 it all caught up with her and she began to feel lonely, sad, and at times suicidal.
Inspired by her aunt’s success with Lap Band Surgery, Jessica decided to explore her options. After assessing her eating habits, lifestyle, and weight loss objectives, we determined it was in Jessica’s best interest to consider Gastric Sleeve Surgery. Being only 18, it was important to provide extra support to Jessica, both before and after surgery. She continues to see the team at WLSA regularly and has gone from 146kg to 77kg in just 12 months. *
MELINDA ADAMS (Gastric Band)
Melinda Adams Has Lost 135kg Following Gastric Banding Surgery.
Seven years ago she weighed 215kg and was in desperate need of help with her weight. Her appreciation for a holistic approach to weight loss, that included dietary and psychological advice, led her to WeightLoss Solutions Australia, where she underwent lap band surgery. *
DANELLE – (Gastric Sleeve)
Gastric Sleeve Surgery 17th January 2011. Weight Loss is 55.1kgs to date
“I’d been thinking about weight loss surgery for many years before I finally made the decision to do it. I was a yo-yo dieter all my life and tried pretty much every diet out there. I had lost 50kg twice before but was never able to keep it off always going back to my old habits. Late last year I was also battling depression and this also caused my weight to balloon. I was miserable, cranky and had no motivation what so ever to lose weight. At one point, I tipped the scale at 132kgs.
One day, whilst reading the local paper I saw an advertisement for one of WLSA’s information sessions. I knew I had to do something, so I booked myself in and went along. I walked away from that night and knew straight away what I wanted. I wanted a sleeve. Hearing the patient testimonials and listening to the friendly staff ticked so many boxes for me and I knew I was doing the right thing.
I had done a lot of research on both the band and sleeve previously and knew the sleeve was right for me. I booked in for 17th January 2011 and 55kg’s later, I haven’t looked back.
It has changed my life completely. I no longer wake up thinking about food, I wake up jump on the scales and see how much weight I’ve lost! My world doesn’t revolve around food anymore. I have learnt to socialise without the need to gorge myself silly on huge fatty meals. I still can eat anything, just in smaller quantities. I have learnt to appreciate food. I don’t live to eat, I eat to live. It is amazing how small amounts of food you actually need to survive.
I now have so much more energy to play with the kids and am no longer the grumpy mum I used to be! I wish I had done it years earlier. Thank you so much WLSA for changing my life! *
HEIDI – (Gastric Sleeve)
29th November 2010. Weight Loss 45kgs to date
This time last year I was sitting in my doctor’s office in tears (again). My latest weight loss endeavour (this time prescription diet pills and a personal trainer at the gym) had failed. I was bigger than the last time I visited her four months ago all full of gusto, a brand new gym membership and a steely determination to “really do it this time”.
I could see the writing on the wall for me if I didn’t lose my dangerous curves. Quite literally actually, since my doctor’s office was plastered with posters about the adverse affects of diabetes, stroke and heart disease. I wanted to be a healthy strong mum for my daughter. I was sick and tired of feeling sick and tired.
It was then she raised the topic of surgery. I was skeptical at first, but within the week I had attended a WLSA information night and practically raced another woman to the counter to book in for my first appointment. I haven’t looked back since.
The beach has always been such a big part of my life, but one where I had grown to feel like an awkward and unwelcome stranger. I went from someone who took every opportunity and any excuse to head to the beach, to a recluse hiding away in sarongs sitting on the sand and eventually, staying home all together.
My surfboard ended up being hung on the wall as part of our beach themed décor. My husband Nick and I used to go surfing together. But after I put on all my weight ten years ago I found myself standing in the driveway watching him go off to the beach without me, unwilling and unable to join him because I felt way too uncomfortable. It used to leave me in tears.
I recently went swimwear shopping and treated myself to a beautiful new Jetts by Jessika Allen swimsuit in size 12! It was an amazing moment to be able to pick the swimwear I loved and not just the one that sort of fit. Why does so much of the swimwear for curvier gals look like it was designed for my grandmother?
Losing 45 kilograms hasn’t just meant a smaller size on my clothing labels and all the health benefits that go along with that, it has given me so much more energy and thirst for life. I’m certainly making up for lost time with Nick and my 4 year old daughter and can’t wait to spend more time on the beach with them this summer.
The WLSA team and the medical staff at John Flynn were just lovely.
This surgery was the tool I needed to finally succeed where a lifetime of yo yo dieting had failed.
I am going to Bassano Del Grappa (northern Italy) for a family Christmas and I can’t wait – I no longer fear airline seats or my Zia Rosina’s famous cooking! *
VANESSA – (ORBERA Gastric Balloon)
Surgery in November 2010 – Weight Loss 13.5kgs
I’m really happy with the results. After finishing up a full time job in Brisbane, I gained quite a bit of weight rapidly which I think was due to the change in routine. My blood pressure had started to increase, I had a lot of fluid retention and was starting to get joint aches when carrying anything heavy. Since having the Orbera, I have increased energy and self confidence. Even at my highest weight I was going to the gym 4 – 5 times every week which meant I was super fit but I knew I wasn’t functioning at my maximum capacity.
Towards the end it was worrying me being the most over weight girl at the gym, I was really putting in the effort but not losing any weight and that was really frustrating.
I’ve really felt supported by allied health team, it has been great talking through issues and things where you can identify where you’ve gone wrong in the past and reaffirming those for the future, giving new ideas etc. The actual balloon itself is like a tool, it stops you from being able to consume what you want to because what you want to consume and what you should are different things. It has been fantastic in teaching me about portion control which has really been the key to my weight loss and something I hadn’t realised until the balloon was in place. I’m having it out in May 2011 and looking forward to continuing with my newly developed routines and maintain my weight loss. *
MELANIE – (Gastric Banding Surgery)
Gastric Banding Surgery in June 2009, Weight Loss to date 25kg
My weight loss has been amazing, I’ve got more energy and much healthier skin and hair. My confidence has grown, I used to be worried about what people thought of me. Over all my mental well being is amazing, the confidence in myself has made a world of difference. I used to view food as a way of coping, on a down day I’d turn to food but I’m now finding other ways to deal with stress, I still love to cook and will cook up a large batch and I’m happy with having just a small portion, rather than cooking say 24 muffins, with 12 for myself to eat before the family arrived home. I used to think “well I’m fat anyway so I might as well have more”. I’m thrilled with the results, and the weight is still coming of slowly but surely. I’d recommend it wholeheartedly. *
SUE – (Gastric Sleeve Surgery)
Gastric Sleeve Surgery in September 2009 – Weight Loss after 18 months, 66kgs
I had been quite slim when I married but after two children and a battle with cancer, my weight just got away from me over the years. I had tried everything – diets, groups, gyms, shakes, and had even had a gastric band put in when they just came onto the market. Initially I lost some weight with the band but had gradually gained it all back and then some in the 10 years after that. Then my child needed ongoing medical treatment in Europe and I realized that I was so big that travel was difficult. In fact, many things were difficult and I was just over it all. So I did some research and both my GP and my Gynaecologist recommended WeightLoss Solutions Australia. From the first meeting, when the surgeon suggested I have the band removed and then undergo a Gastric Sleeve, I felt like this time it was going to work. And it has been a dream come true.
In 18 months I have now lost 66kgs from my biggest weight (160kgs) and have dropped from tight size 26 to comfortable 14-16s. I walk nearly every day and I was previously someone who hated all kinds of exercise. I feel lighter – not just my weight but my spirit is lighter! And I have now run into people who haven’t seen me for a couple of years and they don’t know who I am. This is a real, and manageable way of loosing the fat forever. I am going to loose another 15-20kgs and then reward myself with surgery to “take in my seams”. The WLSA team have been exceedingly generous and kind as well as professional and I thank them with all my heart. *
MAREE (Gastric Banding Surgery)
Gastric Banding Surgery June 2009, Weight Loss 21kgs
I chose to have because I thought it would be the long term solution I needed. I admire anyone who could go on any normal diet and lose weight, but that just wasn’t me.
When I was overweight I would hide what I would eat as I was worried about people judging me. Now, I’m finding my moods are much better and I’m far more confident in myself. I appreciate things more and look at things very differently. Having lap band surgery has benefited every part of my life.
My health and fitness are greatly improved and I’m doing things now that I couldn’t physically do before the surgery. I was recently in an over 50’s Physical Culture competition which was exciting, being able to celebrate being out there, in fishnets and a leotard with like women of your age, just because we can. Being on that floor meant more to me than anything and it really made it all worthwhile. *
BRENDA – (Gastric Banding Surgery)
Gastric Banding Surgery in July 2009. Weight Loss 30kgs
When I was 30 years old I was a size 12 to 14 but as I became unhappy in my life my weight increased, until after 15 years I was a size 20. I tried to diet and it would last anywhere from 3 weeks to 3 months, then all the old habits would come back. When I was approaching 50, I was tired to being overweight as it hampered my everyday life. I looked into gastric banding and decided to get it done at John Flynn Hospital in July 2009. It has changed my life and in the next 10 months I lost 30kgs.
I was originally 105kg and now sit at 75kgs and a size 14 and my weight has only fluctuated by 1 – 2 kgs. The great thing about it is I know I can never put the weight back on, it’s like a weight lifted off my shoulders. I’ve adjusted to the lifestyle of only having entree size meals, and now make better meal choices. The counselling and dietitian help with training and literature. It’s a relief that as I get older, health issues will be reduced, just as my weight has reduced. The staff and surgeon were fantastic and very supportive and the stay in hospital was like being in a resort. The cost was mainly covered by my health fund, and I was able to take the rest out of my superannuation. I feel better about myself and since then I have had a tummy tuck plus a breast reduction and lift. I am a new women, feeling fantastic! *
JACKIE – (Orbera Intra-Gastric Balloon)
After trying every diet around for years, I become very frustrated with my results. I was unhappy with the way I looked and frustrated that I could not wear the clothes I wanted to wear. I knew I needed a push in the right direction and that was why I had decided to give the balloon a go. I researched and read as much information as possible, and also knew it was not going to be magically fixed. I knew that if I could at least get below a certain weight, then it would give me enough of a head start to be able to maintain or continue to eat less and more sensibly to continue in the right direction.
I contacted the clinic on the Gold Coast and had my appointment with their surgeon. who went through all the information on the procedure and what to expect. I knew I would have to prepare myself mentally for the procedure and after the first couple of really hard days things started to settle down. I had the procedure in January and had the balloon removed in July. I lost 18kg in that time which I was so happy about. I did experience some problems with reflux and vomiting, but overall the results were worth it.
It totally controlled my food portion intake. I did not feel hungry. I did not crave unhealthy food. I reduced my alcohol intake greatly. I continue to try and follow the same habits that I learnt over the last 6 months. Keep my portions small, exercise regularly and eat healthy. Having the balloon actually changed some of my bad eating habits.
I have been really happy with my results. I would suggest to anyone to explore the possibility of having this procedure done. *
JUDY (Gastric Banding Surgery)
Just a short story of my journey far. I had tried every diet you could think of but I always put on more than I lost. My weight ballooned at 117kg and my health was starting to suffer. After doing some research about a lap band I gave WeightLoss Solutions Australia and the team a call.
The before and after treatment is what gets you through. I can not thank the team enough, its been 12 months since my operation and they still give me 100% support. THEY SAVED MY LIFE. I have lost 40kgs so far and well on my way to my goal which is only 10kg away. Do yourself a favour, just call them and talk, what harm could it do. Judy Price 26/08/10 *
SHANNON (22)
My name is Shannon; I had my surgery a month before my 21st birthday in august 2008 weighing 104kgs. At the time I was a size 18, severely depressed, a pre diabetic, anti social, and had no self confidence. I’d been overweight for as long as I can remember and over the years, with many failed attempts at fad diets, my weight just kept creeping up. I don’t like to admit it, but I was an emotional over eater who used to cry in change rooms because all the nice clothes my friends were wearing just wouldn’t fit me. I have a hip disease called perthes and, due to the excess weight I was carrying, I suffered a lot of pain, sometimes making it hard to function on a day to day basis.
One day while driving I heard a radio advertisement for a seminar at John Flynn Private Hospital and decided that I’d like to learn more about gastric banding. My parents and I went along to the seminar, sat and listened to the WLSA team explain all about the surgery. I left the seminar excited and confident that gastric banding was the option for me. I soon started having all the necessary appointments in the lead up to the surgery. The team at WLSA made the experience so much easier with their friendly and caring nature. I couldn’t believe how quickly I recovered and soon starting exercising to assist in my weight loss.
Today, 16 months after my surgery, I weigh 76kgs. I am a self confident, happy size 12, who loves shopping for a new wardrobe, and I am no longer in constant pain due to my hip disease. I would like to thank WLSA for changing my life; I finally feel like I can be the person I’ve always wanted to be! *
CHRIS (38)
My name is Chris Chapman and I had gastric banding surgery on the 21st of September 2009. My starting weight was 225kg; and, since then, I have gone on to lose 43kg-as of February 11th, 2010-and currently weigh 182kg.
I have had many medical problems that have diminished throughout this journey, like fluid retention in the lower part of my legs, which is no longer as severe, and sciatic back problems, that are now very few and far between. I also suffer a form of sleep apnoea- where I stop breath on many occasions throughout the night-which now is not so prominent, and no longer have to get up 5 or 6 times a night to go to the toilet due to so much weight being on my bladder. I now sleep right through the night most of the time and can’t tell you how great it feels.
A lot of changes have occurred to my lifestyle since I had the procedure. I now look forward to exercise: I used to only be able to walk about 500 metres before I ran out of steam; now I’m doing about 3km on a regular basis, which is a massive change for me. I’m not as tired as I used to be, because I’m also getting much more sleep and can breathe easier. I can now put my socks on without struggling to breathe and I can generally do a lot more due to having more energy.
I would highly recommend this procedure to anybody who is struggling with obesity. My life is getting so much better and I only wish I had done it earlier. I wake up every day feeling better and better; it’s the best thing that I’ve done in my life and I hope to be around for a lot longer as a result.
If you think that it’s a hard road, please think again! While it can be challenging at times, I have found the journey so far to be quite easy. You just need to think smart and follow the rules. I promise you that if you choose to go down this path, it will be the best decision you have made in your life.
I would like to take the opportunity to thank everybody at WeightLoss Solutions Australias, especially Taryn (Dietitian) for being so extremely helpful. No matter what the situation, she is always happy to answer any question at any time. Thanks also to the ladies in reception-Carol and Sue-who are fantastic women and are always helpful and cheery.
Finally, and most importantly, I wish to thank my family for their love and support. Thank you to my wife Christine, who always encourages me, takes good care of me, and keeps me on track. Thank you to my 5 wonderful children (Luke, Tayla, Shanyn, Abbey, and Maddison). Daddy is now going to be around for many more years to enjoy watching you grow. To my mum Roslyn and friend Delma, thanks for pushing me in the right direction and encouraging me to have this procedure. Thank you all! *
LEONA (63)
At 63 years of age I weighed 181kg; I had type 2 diabetes and my whole body was shutting down. My liver and kidneys were struggling, my cholesterol and blood pressure was very high, I had ulcers in both my legs, and I had no pulse in my feet. Unable to walk more than 20 feet, bend over, or stand for more than a few seconds, I did not expect to live beyond 2009.
In April of 2009 my daughter made an appointment with WeightLoss Solutions Australia for me. It was suggested to me by that I undergo a gastric sleeve. I was operated on 2 weeks later and life has never been the same since! All my bodily functions have returned to normal and I have regained some control over my diabetes and blood pressure. I have also lost 60kg and my tastes in food have changed for the better. I can now do things I have done for 12 years, like drive my car, clean my house, shopping, gardening, babysitting, etc. I have new goals in life, including learning marine radio rescue at Cape Byron and babysitting my grandkids. Thanks WLSA, my life has been turned around for the better. *
SUE
It took a telephone conversation with my brother in the UK for me to decide surgery was my best weight loss solution. My GP had suggested it twice, but I didn’t really want to think about it. My brother came to visit me in Australia 8 months before his wedding in the UK. He was concerned about me being fit enough to make the trip there for the wedding. I was concerned about fitting into a plane seat. With my weight hovering around 180kg, our concerns were substantial.
Our conversation went something like this…..”I don’t think I warrant weight loss surgery; and, it’s sort of like cheating and I’m scared”. “Well, you do warrant it; and, it’s okay to ask for help. It’s also okay to be scared, Sue”. So the following week I set a date for surgery with WeightLoss Solutions Australia. I had only heard about gastric banding before, but with a BMI of 59, I was recommended to have sleeve gastrectomy instead. After doing some reading on the procedure, I agreed that it would suit me well and it has been the best thing for me.
Throughout the year following surgery, the team at WeightLoss Solutions Australia has been my personal cheer squad. I’ve been lavished with the encouragement and guidance. This year has also been enriched with Pilates, swimming, and walking. My knee used to give me pain just doing the supermarket isles. Now I can enjoy walking to the lookout at Burleigh Heads; something which was simply not possible before surgery, let alone enjoyable. It’s now just over a year since my surgery and I’ve lost 74kg, plus 50cm from my waist. My BMI has dropped from 59 to 34. I haven’t finished my journey just yet, but I am so happy with my results so far. I can buy clothes I like, in normal sizes, which is something I haven’t done in years. In fact, I weigh less now than I did in high school. I got to travel to the UK for my brother’s wedding and spent two days in Paris on the way home. It was all above what I could have hoped for or imagined. Thanks, WeightLoss Solutions Australia! *
*Disclaimer: Results may vary for each person