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Andrea Dobratz's Story
In 2011, I had reached my limit in many ways: I passed the 300 pound mark, developed pre-diabetes and was on the verge of turning forty. I knew changes were on the way, and that they were changes only I could make. That’s when I decided I had to take control of my life and lose weight.
I knew all too well how serious diabetes complications can be. A close relative of mine developed the disease at 38 years old. She experienced many problems including an amputation and end-stage renal disease. I didn't want that to be me, and I didn't want my children to have to take care of me if there was something I could do to help myself.
At that point, I decided to look at alternatives including weight-loss surgery. I made my first appointment with Dr. Craig Chang, bariatric surgeon, and began my journey to a healthier lifestyle.
I worried that my children and others may think I took the “easy way out.” Believe me, this was not that. I've worked hard and not just physically. Mentally, I had to change my thinking. I knew surgery would reduce the amount of food my body could hold, but I couldn't reduce the amount of anxiety I felt about surgery. I was too worried about what everyone else may think.
As my blood pressure crept up and my insulin resistance grew worse, I realized it only mattered what I thought. I was 40 years old. My children were teenagers. I finally had time to do something for me, and I did it.
In January 2012, I underwent gastric bypass surgery. It was one of the best decisions I've ever made. With hard work and the help of the surgery, I’ve lost 165 pounds now. I have energy and have committed myself to working out with a partner and balancing all my food choices with my daily plan. I like variety and occasionally allow myself a treat knowing I will have to make allowances with more exercise that day and healthier food choices, too. So I have the best of both worlds — I've been able to change my physical and mental approaches to food.
I feel so much better. I continue to take blood pressure medicine but not because of my weight, and I no longer have any glucose issues which means no diabetes in my future. I’m excited about what is still to come.