"I Got My Life Back" - Larry’s Weight Loss Surgery Journey

I’m happier and more confident with how I look

For as long as I can remember, I have always been overweight. I’ve tried every diet program from WeightWatchers to Profile by Sanford – some with moderate success, but I always resorted back to my old eating habits. I’ve been on high blood pressure medication, used a CPAP machine to help me breathe at night, and struggled doing simple things like walking long distances, getting up off the living room floor, and finding clothing that fits. I was ashamed to travel in an airplane because I needed to buy two seats. My self-esteem was at rock bottom. Then in December of 2021, I nearly failed my commercial vehicle Department of Transportation physical that I’m required to pass as a truck driver because of my high blood pressure. Getting up and out of my truck was a chore and climbing into the trailer was nearly impossible. I had enough – I needed to change, and I wanted my life back.

I began researching weight loss surgery and found the bariatric surgery program at Saint Alphonsus. When I told my mother about weight loss surgery, she was concerned something could go wrong. She too had been overweight her whole life and suffered from several medical issues as a result. I was afraid I was on the same path as her and after many discussions, she eventually supported my decision for surgery.

I had my first consultation with Saint Alphonsus in January of 2022. While I was ashamed of my appearance, the nurses and doctors could not have been more positive – reassuring me that the surgery would be life-changing. Bariatric Surgeon, Dr. Chris Reising explained the different surgery options, what they each involved, and the possible complications associated with each. He assured me I’d see results if I followed the program and that surgery is not the end of eating, it’s just the beginning of being more conscious of what I am eating.

At every visit, the nurses were so positive. They checked my progress, made sure I was tracking my diet, and congratulated me on reaching each milestone. The dietician and nutritionist explained foods, carbohydrates, and what new foods I could introduce into my diet. I was told about their bariatric support group – which has been a great resource for food prep ideas and recipes. In all, I received nothing but positivity and reinforcement from the Saint Alphonsus team.

My surgery took place October of 2022. At my heaviest before the surgery, I weighed 412 pounds. My goal was to reach 225 pounds after surgery. Today, just 15 months post-surgery, I weigh 195 pounds having lost 217 – I beat my goal and then some. I’m maintaining my weight by tracking everything I eat, reading food labels. I utilize bariatric websites to order bariatric friendly foods. I make sure I get my protein first, avoid fried foods, and stick to a low carb diet. I exercise a minimum of 4 days a week which is not easy as a truck driver but I’m here to say, it can be done. Moving is key.

My only regret is that my mother passed away in February of 2022 and never got to see my journey and success. Thankfully, I have an amazing support circle of family, colleagues, and friends who all cheer for me. My father is the absolute best. He flew to Boise from Iowa for my surgery and recovery. I was given cookbooks and a food scale. One friend even introduced me to mountain biking which has quickly become a passion of mine. I’m riding my bike a minimum of 10 miles a day.

Life after surgery has been incredible. It is the best decision I have ever made. I wish I did it 20 years ago. I’m happier and more confident with how I look and even better, I’m on zero medications for high blood pressure and depression. I’ve donated all the oversized clothing I own and went on my first vacation to Costa Rica – in just one airplane seat.

I thank the team at Saint Alphonsus for this life-changing surgery. They want you to succeed and it shows with their positivity and endless support. Surgery isn’t a magic pill, it’s a tool to better health. It has given me my life back.

Learn more about the Saint Alphonsus bariatric weight loss surgery program.

Previous Next