Casey

Surgery Date: 12/6/2021
Starting Weight: 371
Current Weight: 170

What made you decide to have weight loss surgery? I wanted to make sure my children had the mom they deserved.  One that is healthy, would be around for them as long as possible, and an active mom that didn't sit on the sidelines watching.

How long did it take for you to decide to have weight loss surgery? About a year.

Did anyone either encourage or discourage you from having surgery? I heard a lot of criticism from people about surgery being risky and the easy way out, but I knew it was the right move for me. I don't have any regrets, and I'm glad I chose this life for me. I kept my surgery a secret until it was done to avoid backlash. I leaned on my husband and my close friends for support.

What do you wish you'd known before the surgery? I wish I knew how differently people would treat me, and how the version of me I saw in the mirror wouldn't change. I wish I knew more about body dysmorphia so I could take proactive steps to have more realistic expectations for myself.

What things are you able to do now that may have been difficult or impossible before surgery? I am active! I run and play with my kids. I can fit into rides at amusement parks. I can shop for clothes at any store and not just specialty stores.

Which conditions or diseases have you seen decrease or disappear since your surgery? I struggled with asthma and joint pain prior to surgery, and those conditions have pretty much resolved. I still have normal aches and pains, but that's to be expected with age. Otherwise, I have a clean bill of health!

How has surgery altered your outlook on life, your emotions, and/or relationships? I have always been people pleaser and pour into everyone else, and I've learned that I have to do things for myself so I can continue to do for others. I focus more on my health, both physical and mental. I am able to be a better version of myself so I can give others a better version of me. I also wish I would have had surgery years ago because I wasted so much time and energy making excuses. Life is short, and you need as much time as you can get to be fully present with your loved ones. 

Why did you decide to have surgery with Dr. Eibes?  I contacted the clinic for information, and the staff that reached out was so friendly and quick to respond. I loved the customer service I received from the get-go, and then I looked up Dr. Eibes' reviews and knew that was where I needed to be.

What would you say about Dr. Eibes and his team?  Everyone is so helpful, caring, compassionate, and most importantly supportive. I have a tendency to be hard on myself, and on those days where I thought I was failing, I would walk into the clinic and they would hype me up and give me that confidence boost I needed to keep going.

What would you tell someone who is considering weight loss surgery? Do the research, ask the questions, and go with your gut on what you feel is best for you. Don't be afraid of negatives like what you can and can't have to eat or portion sizes. Instead, view it as this is what I get to do and I am going to change my lifestyle to ensure my health.

Is there any additional information you would like to share? Iowa Weight Loss has so many team members who specialize in different areas, and it takes a village to support your needs. They have people there for you in all areas of this journey, including mental health. They also have the option to see you via telehealth which is so beneficial when you have kids, work, or just a busy schedule in general. You have nothing to lose by inquiring about your options, but you have a whole new life to gain!