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I had type II diabities, was taking 7 medications, weighed 360 pounds, had tried to lose weight for years and failed. My doctor had suggested bariatric surgery more than once to me before I made up my mind to change my life for the better. I wanted to live to enjoy grandchildren and to see retirement. I've coached football for over 25 years and even my players were worried about how big I'd gotten. I couldn't effeciently coach because I couldn't run and bend and do the things I needed to do to teach them. After the surgery they were very supportive, as was my friend at work, she had a family member that had the surgery, and she made me realize how important how the exercise part was afterwards. She did the spin cycle, I ride my stationary bike everyday, ab-circle, and use the weight bench. I went back to work 11 days after my surgery, coached football 5 days every week, exercised, and followed the meal plan exactly. I now wear size 36 pants, I used to wear size 46. I lost 102 pounds in 5 months. I'd like to thank Dr. Sneeringer and Dr. Felix and his great staff, my family, and especially my wife for all the support they have given me, I have a new lease on live, and look forward to the future and all the good things to come. Bob

Webster's definition of JOURNEY--a trip, to travel. Joanie's definition est. 7/6/05--much improved health, a new excitement for life, learning and practicing good habits, reaching for new goals. Meeting and sharing with new friends, a new understanding of commitment. My HEARTFELT THANKS to Dr. Wilcox, Dr. Felix and the wonderful staff and friends at HOPE BARIATRICS.

My weight issues started when I was going into my teenage years. When I got married and had two wonderful children my weight became even more out of control. Having two children and a lifelong battle with food, I finally decided that it was time to get my life and weight under control. I decided that it was time for me to under go gastric by-pass surgery. The morning I went in for my surgery I was not even a bit scared. I knew I was doing the right thing for myself. That's right FOR MYSELF! I weighed 263 lbs. that morning. 9 1/2 months later I weighed 138 lbs. I have gone from a size 22/24 to a size 4/6. Everyday is a challenge!! Some may think it was the easy way out. Those are the people who don't know what it is like to live on the other side of the scale. I would like to think I could be an inspiration to those who have had a life long battle with their weight, because I know what it is like on the other side. I no longer live on a diet. I live on what I now call "life". I said good-bye to my 20's and hello to the thin person that I have always wanted to be. Thank you Dr. Felix and your wonderfull staff. You gave me my life back. Sincerely, Cindy

Had gastric bypass surgery with Dr. Wilcox at Sewickley Hospital in July, 2003.

Pre-surgery BMI: 49.5

I have lost over 100 lbs.