BEYOND

Terri chose weight loss surgery to ease chronic pain — and gained the energy to enjoy every moment with her grandkids.

For years, Terri lived with knee and back pain that made daily life a challenge. Her orthopedic doctor recommended losing weight to help ease the discomfort, but Terri’s motivation went beyond pain relief — she wanted to be the kind of grandmother who could be active, playful and present.

Ten years ago, she made the life-changing decision to undergo sleeve surgery. Today, Terri is 90 pounds lighter — and says her activity level has increased fivefold. From walking and shopping to playing with her grandkids, she now enjoys the freedom of movement and the joy that comes with it.

Her success hasn’t come without effort. Terri follows the Weight Center’s nutritional and exercise guidance closely, tracking calories and weighing herself daily to stay on course. “It’s easy to slip into old habits,” she says. “But finding your own way of tracking helps you stay successful.”

The support she’s received from the Weight Center has been ongoing and encouraging. Through annual check-ins and as-needed visits, Terri has stayed connected with her care team, and she is confident in the tools and accountability they provide.

Now, a decade after surgery, Terri is living life on her own terms — with energy, confidence and a whole lot of fun.

After decades of failed diets, Theresa turned to weight loss surgery — and found the life she never thought possible.

Theresa had battled obesity since childhood. By fifth grade, she weighed over 150 pounds and was told her love of ballet would be cut short  — her feet in pointe shoes would not be able to support her body. From that moment, diets and support groups became part of her life, but nothing offered lasting success. “I had given up all hope for a normal life,” she shared.

Then, in her late 30s, Theresa’s nutritionist introduced her to a new kind of support: a comprehensive weight loss surgery program led by a team that included a surgeon, psychologist, and dietitian. After attending a small support group meeting, Theresa knew this was her path forward. “It was surgery or die from complications of morbid obesity,” she said. She committed fully, determined to reclaim her life.

The results were nothing short of life-changing. Theresa lost over 160 pounds and gained confidence, energy, and purpose. She began dating for the first time, changed careers, married at 59, and found joy in simple pleasures — like scrapbooking retreats with friends.

To those considering weight loss surgery, Theresa offers heartfelt advice: “Do the research. Ask questions. Commit to the process. Your team is there for you — not just before and after surgery, but for years to come.”

Now, 25 years later, Theresa is still thriving. She credits her transformation to her perseverance and the expert care team that supported her every step of the way.