Melissa celebrates her decision every day.
I’ve always had a very active social life. My weight never really got in the way of that. It did keep me from feeling like I had a “normal” social life, though. I didn’t date like my friends did. Guys didn’t ask me out. I’d go out with friends but I always felt self-conscious — like people were staring at me. Since losing 85 pounds (and counting) with the Lap Band, I finally feel normal. I even love shopping and going to the pool. It’s very exciting for me.
I think I tried just about every weight-loss idea out there, but none of them really worked very well or for very long. Then I ran into a friend I hadn’t seen in a long time. She’d always struggled with her weight, like I did, but now she looked fantastic! I asked her how she did it, and she told me about the Lap Band and about her doctor. So I checked out his credentials, which were impressive, and that’s how I found True Results. I felt a real connection with my doctor and the whole True Results team. I don’t feel like a patient — it’s more like a partnership and our goal is my weight-loss success.
I think there’s a stereotype about bariatric procedures like Lap Band — people think it’s the easy way out. I had people actually say to me, “Why don’t you just get in the gym and eat right?” Like I never thought of that, thank you! I find that attitude kind of shocking, you know? If someone is addicted to something like alcohol, drugs or gambling, they get treatment and get clean. Then they’re congratulated for kicking whatever demon they had. I don’t think I’m any different. I had a problem with my weight — an addiction to food — and I found the treatment that worked for me. I’m not ashamed at all. I celebrate my choice and I tell anyone who asks.
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