Kimberly’s Story

There is a widespread stigma that comes with being overweight in our society. After years of yo-yo dieting, my weight climbed to 245 pounds. My self-esteem and self-image were suffering, and so was my health. I developed high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and arthritis, just to name a few. In addition to the physical pain, I also endured the emotional hurt that comes with being overweight.

The LAP-BAND System appealed to me because it was the least invasive weight loss procedure. Best of all, I learned that it was a tool that would teach me to eat nutritiously and to take better care of my body. I needed to lose the weight slowly while making positive lifestyle changes.

I remember the day of my surgery. I prayed for God’s grace and power, and then I started to visualize a thinner, healthier image of me. Since my surgery, I’ve started working out—first walking and now running four to six miles a day. I’ve gone from a dress size 22 down to a size 8. I look and feel like a new woman! I’m healthy, happy and loving life. My social life and work life have improved because I am no longer constrained by my weight. Now, I feel empowered and blessed because I am the woman I was always meant to be.