• Name: Denise Vriend
• Age: 50
• Surgery: Gastric Sleeve
• Surgery date: January 10th, 2014
• Testimonial date: September 9th, 2014
• Surgeon: Dr. Almanza

Pretty much all of my life I was dieting or at least trying to watch my weight. I had 3 children within 4 years which meant a very busy house hold. I would go up and down with my weigh for the last 30 years. While working as a Care Aide in a seniors home one of my managers had the gastric sleeve done in the US at high cost. I said at that time if I could afford it I would do it in a heart beat. That was a couple of years ago, so I just put if off thinking its too far out of reach. Then a co worker told me at getting done at the Jerusalem Hospital with Dr. Almanza at this cost. Well now came the hard part, getting my husband on board. He knew I was not happy with my weigh all along. To my surprise he said you go for it, so I booked the appointment for Jan 10, 2014.
Since the surgery I have had no complication at all. I was able to eat small amounts of solids 2 weeks later and slowly increased. It will 8 months tomorrow already!! I am down approx. 78 lbs. I was on High Blood pressure meds., High Cholesterol med., I was pre Diabetes, and Inderal for a lot of headaches. Shortly after I went off all of my medication and is only taking something for my heartburn, and the odd headache I get. I say I don't diet and am loving it!! I do enjoy hiking 20km without a though. ( you must remember your protein bars). Running after my Grandchildren is so much easier... I'm looking forward to the trip we are planning on Backpacking Belize. I would never even though of it before.

The hospital and call staff were great, efficient and there to help. They answered any questions I had before the surgery. By far this was the easiest surgery I have every gone though. Don't get me wrong I did worry about if this was the right thing to do, and was very nervous during my decision time. At Christmas last year I saw a picture of myself at a gathering, and that was the time when I said I'm going for it...Have never second guessed myself to this day. I am very happy with the weight loss and is at about my goal.

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