MEET KRISTI KAISER...
September, 5, 2007 is the day that my life changed forever
This is the date of my Gastric Sleeve surgery, at which point I weighted 306 lbs. Before this day I never thought I would regain the happiness I once had. Today, I look back and am thankful that I made the decision to not only change my life, but save my life.
I married the man of my dreams in 1998, which was one of the happiest days of my life. With this new found happiness, came eating habits that should have been controlled. This, plus a lack of exercise began my downward spiral. Before I knew it I was 160 lbs over weight. I was miserable and could hardly walk. I considered weight loss surgery before, but was always terrified of the "what ifs". I attempted dieting again when I was at my heaviest. After losing just 20 lbs, I would get depressed and start eating again. This was when I started to look into my options once again.
I am blessed to have a Aunt that works for Vista Hospital. She mentioned that I should listen to a seminar regarding weight loss surgeries. I went in to this seminar with the idea of receiving the Lap Band surgery and came out knowing that with a life style change, I could achieve what I want with the Gastric Sleeve surgery. When I realized my insurance would not pay for the surgery, I was so upset. I thought to myself, "What am I going to do?" Well, I'll tell you what I did. I picked up the phone and talked with a Nova Body Specialist. They worked out a payment plan that I could live with. I scheduled my surgery and the rest is history.
I may have paid for my surgery myself, but the results I received are priceless. I was re-born with the life I wanted. I can take my child to the park, chase him around, and actually fit down the slide now. I get to hear and appreciate his little laugh when I catch him after playing "hide and go seek"!!! I had this surgery for him because I am his Mom, but most of all for ME!!
In September of 2009 I will have been post op 2 years. I have regained my life and am now actually living my life to it's fullest. I have lost a total of 146 lbs. This surgery was THE BEST decision of my LIFE!