Starts out like everyone else I suppose. You wake up one day and ask yourself “do I really want to continue on this path knowing that it’s not the way I went to live my life?” Having high blood pressure, high cholesterol, being severely obese (296 pounds), not having any energy and always being tired was taking its toll. There’s a Chinese proverb that says “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,” and so began my journey.

In January 2014 I made the decision to take back control of my life and called Beverly Hills Physicians and made an appointment for February 6, 2014 to get information on the Lap Band procedure for weight loss. Upon arrival I was handed a mountain of paperwork to fill out, about two thirds of the way through that process, a group of us were introduce to Dr Monali Misra who gave us information on the Lap Band and gastric sleeve procedures. After completion of all the paperwork, I met with Dr Misra and we decided that the gastric sleeve would be the best procedure for me. I then met with Nicole Simms, my surgical consultant, where she explained all the requirements I would need to do prior to the procedure.

A sleep study was done and confirmed I had sleep apnea on Fed 23rd, and on March 17th I started a low calorie, low fat diet, keeping my intake below 1500 calories a day, which would help my procedure go easier. On April 17th, Dr Misra performed an EGD procedure, and at this time I met the surgical team. I have to say any apprehensions I may have had were quickly resolved.

My surgery was scheduled for Thursday the 29th of May. I had the same surgical team as my EGD and felt really comfortable about the procedure. I had lost about 28 pounds at this point and must say the soft food and liquid diet wasn’t all that bad. The procedure went perfect and after I woke up I was transferred to an aftercare facility in Beverly Hills. Again the care I received was outstanding, the staff went above and beyond to make sure I was as comfortable as possible. My wife was able to stay in the room with me, and that was great.

I’m down 78 pounds so far!

As of Sept 28th, I have lost a total of 78 pounds, 3 pant sizes, and 2 shirt sizes. I no longer have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or sleep apnea. I have more energy now than I have had in 15 years, and really feel good about the path I’m on.

If you’re on the fence about doing this, let me assure you if you decide to have the procedure it will be one of the best decisions you will every make. “IT’S LIFE CHANGING” – so go ahead, and take that first step and start your journey.

James C