• Name: BindyMae
• Age: 58
• Surgery: Gastric Sleeve
• Surgery date: November 8th, 2011
• Testimonial date: January 20th, 2013
• Surgeon: Dr. Almanza

Ok, it's been 15 months since my surgery. Time to give a testimonial about my experience.
First of all, I have seen some comments about "not being that big" and "surgery is pretty extreme when you only have 40, 50 or 60 lbs to lose." I was 200 lbs when I decided to have surgery and my goal was 140. I had dieted for 35 years and was ready for something extreme.
My sister came with me but I would've been just fine if I'd gone by myself. The support & camaraderie of my "sleeve siblings" was the best. I still keep in touch with some of them. The staff, right from the driver that picked us up at the airport to the owner of the clinic, were very friendly, helpful and professional.
Since it has been over a year since my surgery I'm not going to go into the details. It has been explained many times on this site. I will just say it went smoothly and I had no problems or issues at all.
This past year, however, has been amazing! I soon ran out of clothes to wear as the weight came off. I shopped at 2nd hand stores & such as I knew I would soon need a smaller size again. I went down to 120 lbs and my family & friends became quite concerned. I'll admit I did look rather gant. I knew I often forgot to eat and wasn't eating enough. . So I really tried to eat more calories. I know, hey...who've thought? I did put on 5 lbs & I also think we're all getting used to the new BindyMae. Believe me, I was happy at 140. So I'm 15 lbs lower than my goal & have leveled off at 125. I don't mind paying more for clothes when I know I'll have them longer AND I bought a pair of heels. I was carrying a 50 lb bag into the house a while ago & it was all I could do to lift it. Then I realized I had been carrying way more than that EVERYWHERE ALL THE TIME. I went off Crestor. And my husband says I've quit snoring.
So needless to say I'm very happy with my decision & results. I would recommend Dr. Almanza & the whole team at Jerusalem Clinic. "My Life Is Changed!"

* This is an actual testimonial, however, your results may vary. For more information, please read our Testimonial Disclaimer and Risks of Surgery.