Leaving Obesity Behind |
For the growing number of Canadians who have no success with traditional weight loss, it is important that they understand the options, risks and benefits of the leading weight loss surgeries. Tammy Robertson is a registered nurse who chose the Lap-Band to help her reach a healthier weight.
Q: Why did you decide on weight loss surgery?
Tammy: As a nurse I was very aware of the health risks that my weight was posing. I had high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and borderline diabetes. Due to a slow functioning thyroid, however, I simply couldn't lose weight with regular diets. I was unhappy with my appearance and was becoming depressed because I couldn't keep up with my daughter. That's when I decided a change needed to be made.
Q: What is the Lap-Band?
Tammy: The Lap-Band is a band that is wrapped around the upper part of your stomach. With the band in place I am satisfied with smaller portions and this feeling of fullness lasts for longer.
Q: How did you choose the Lap-Band?
Tammy: I spent a lot of time researching the different options and facilities available for weight loss surgery and eventually I chose to get the Lap-Band procedure at a specialized weight loss clinic. After visiting The Surgical Weight Centre, I knew that Dr. Cobourn and I had similar approaches to weight loss. He emphasized the importance of losing weight at a healthy, sustained pace.
Q: How has your surgery affected your life?
Tammy: There have been a lot of positives that have come out of my Lap-Band surgery. I'm more confident, I'm healthier and I'm happier. I've taken up activities that I hadn't done in years and I'm really enjoying my life again.
Q: Where did you learn about the Lap-Band?
Tammy: There is a great website at www.obesitysurgery.ca that offered me lots of information and helped me to make an educated decision about the best surgery for me.
-News Canada
