Georgia Coast Surgical

Hi, My name is Betsy T. I suffered from almost all the health conditions brought on by obesity. I changed my life on March 22, 2004 with gastric bypass surgery. It was one of the hardest decisions I have ever made, but it turned out to be the best one ever. I started out at 356 pounds, and nearly house bound. My world was filled with medications, needles for insulin, and oxygen tanks. I felt that my life had come to a crossroads and the only paths that I could envision were filled with oxygen, wheelchairs, disability, and a version of life that was devastating to me. Then I decided to take a chance, it was scary and very mentally challenging. Now two years later I have lost 160 pounds, no longer use oxygen at all, no longer prick my fingers or stick insulin needles in my abdomen. No, I'm not a size 6 but I never expected to be. My life now belongs to me once more and it is better than I could have imagined 2 years ago. Before surgery my world was getting smaller and smaller as I got larger.  Now, my world just keeps getting bigger and better.

I have only one thing to say…... “I LOVE MY LAP-BAND!!” At 5’ 2 ½”, and my weight at 246, I was miserable. Many times I had lost weight but gained it right back because of my lack of self control. Once I lost control, I couldn’t stop. I fluctuated between accepting myself as an overweight person and dieting to be the size I really needed to be. But what I really wanted was to be a normal eater and I didn’t know how to do that.

Last spring I met a young lady who had undergone bypass surgery and lost 150 pounds! She told me about her journey and about a new procedure her doctors were doing called a Lap-Band. I could hardly wait until Monday to call Dr. Henderson and Kent’s office. Monday came and I called. I was given the steps to follow in order to set up an appointment. I attended the informational meeting and completed the packet and returned it to the doctor’s office the following day. Within 2-3 weeks my surgery was scheduled and I was so excited!! On June 17, 2005 I was banded. The first 6 weeks I lost between 15-20 pounds and got my first adjustment. As time went on I found I was not continuing to lose the weight that I had anticipated and became discouraged. I felt I was still able to eat more than I should. Over the next few months I had several small adjustments. Dr. Henderson, Sandra (his PA), the nurses and the entire office staff were wonderful. They listened to what I was saying; they encouraged me and became my support and second family. Finally in December, we found my “sweet spot”, which was the correct amount of adjustment of the band for me individually. It really made a difference in restricting the amount of food I could eat during a meal. That’s when it happened….I became a normal eater and the weight began to fall off. I’ve been banded for one year now and have lost 65 pounds; 60% of my excess weight is gone! I look and feel like a different person. I can shop for clothes in regular sizes now and feel good about myself when I look in the mirror. Eating is no longer the main item on my agenda and I’m able to enjoy so many more things that being overweight kept me from doing. My band keeps me in check and doesn’t allow my lack of self control to take over. I look forward to the months to come as I move closer to meeting my weight loss goal, but I can say I have no regrets and I would do it all again with no hesitation.

My most sincere gratitude goes to everyone at Georgia Coast Surgical for going through this life changing journey with me! Your support, warmth, and encouragement have meant more to me than you will ever know.

My name is Kay Daigle and I had open gastric bypass surgery September 26, 2005. I had been overweight all of my adult life and pretty much all of my childhood. Before surgery I weighed 202 pounds, was taking 3 medications for diabetes, 1 medication for high blood pressure and 2 medications for high cholesterol. Being 44 years old with a family history of heart disease I decided that it was time to do something about my weight. I knew that I could lose 40 or 50 lbs because I had lost it before about 3 times, but I would always gain it back. I was looking for a permanent solution.

Dr. Kent performed my surgery and in 10 months I have lost 75 lbs, but more importantly I gained good health. I no longer have high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol. I am off all my medications and have been since surgery. I try and exercise everyday at the health club, something that I have never done. I actually find that I enjoy it and look forward to it. I have a new lifestyle now with good nutrition and exercise as my focus. I love the new me! I am truly grateful for Dr. Kent, the nurses, the office staff and the dietician, at Georgia Coast Surgical for seeing me through this process. It continues to be a life changing journey.

Gastric Bypass Surgery is a cheater’s way out, I thought. When my sister announced her intention to have a form of it performed in the early 90’s, I begged and pleaded with her not to do it. I’d heard all the horror stories and I just didn’t understand her need for something with more lasting results… I was fat, excuse me, morbidly obese, too, but I was still trying to diet with Weight Watchers, SlimFast, the cabbage soup diet, 3-day-diets, endless diet pills and any other thing that I thought would get quick, fast results. My sister and I even had our jaws wired in a dentist office on the same day and downed gallons of doctor-supervised liquid diet drinks in hopes of freeing the real woman within. I failed all of them.

However, my family history of heart disease, diabetes and other ailments was sure to catch up to me if I didn’t do something. I watched each day as my mom would pick through and devour pills from a bowl filled with prescription medications that sat on her kitchen table.

Meanwhile, my own weight continued to climb. Other health issues began to reveal themselves. No matter what I’d try to curb my appetite, nothing would last long enough for me to reach my goal. It wouldn’t be long before the lost pounds would be found again.

My turning point came when the scales strained to support my 416 pound frame and I had to ask for assistance from someone at work to buckle my shoes. My grandson, Van, had already made the comment that I didn’t run and play ball with him as I used to do. Oh, and I can’t forget the day my family rode rides at Universal Studios in Florida. I watched from the ground because the safety harness on the vehicles wouldn’t close around me and I had to get off.

On August 4, 2004, my children and grandchildren accompanied me to the hospital for surgery. Even though I’d investigated the surgery on-line, talked with others who’d experienced the surgery, attended informational meetings and read other printed literature on the subject, I was a bit apprehensive about my own outcomes but determined to make it work.

The day I was released, I laughed to myself and felt apologetic because the transport person, a thin young man who was to wheel me out of the hospital, came with a smile and a regular sized wheelchair. But once he sized me up, he quickly exited and returned just as fast with a chair the size of a love seat. As he pushed my toward the elevator, I could hear his strained breath- I wanted to get up and push him instead.

Today, I’m more than 200 pounds lighter and still losing. The surgery is just what it’s advertised to be---a tool, when properly used to get the desired results. Finally, I’m free from the plus size only shops, doors are being held open for me, even security guards greet and invite me to have a nice day. But if none of those things ever happened again, it wouldn’t take away my confidence and feeling of better health. What’s more, my grandson approves……Margaret Bailey, Savannah, Ga.

Hi! I’m Diana Sheppard, female of 42 years young. I was a girl who didn’t have to worry about what I ate or the amount of food intake I endured while growing up. I could eat whatever I wanted whenever I wanted and didn’t need to worry about weight gain. Well, needless to say your metabolism does change and it changes quicker than one can imagine.

Having a young teenager at home and someday grandchildren - I was missing out on activities with him which I enjoyed with our older children when they were his age. I had blossomed to a whopping 274 lbs. and found myself to be depressed. I didn’t want to leave the house, couldn’t walk around the block without my lower back aching and the pain running down the back of my legs. I was experiencing medical problems (sleep apnea, GERD, etc.) which I knew was from my weight. Sadly, my husband started sleeping in the guest room due to my snoring (he even tape recorded me!). I grew into a person I no longer knew and disliked very much and just couldn’t get my willpower together. I committed myself to doing things that would make me feel good about myself, like having my nails done or buying new clothes. I even bought a motorcycle! Riding my bike was my enjoyment factor until I saw a picture my husband took of me!

Today, almost seven months post-op I’m 100 lbs. lighter. I still ride my bike but now I practice posture to show off the new “me” and I’m loving every minute of it - even more so now than ever! It’s a great feeling knowing that something else is bigger than I am! Hearing my husband say I’m “lookin’ mighty fine” on my bike tells me his attraction for me is still there! I’m walking, swimming, going to the beach, just getting out and enjoying the beautiful life the dear Lord has given me. It’s a blessing to be able to cross your legs in church, to sit comfortably, to go to a restaurant and request a booth rather than a table, not asking for a seat belt extension on the airplane, have a stranger sit next to you on the train. Oh how wonderful the feeling is - more smiles, laughter, fun, pure enjoyment with your family and friends!

From my experience of being a nurse I had tried numerous traditional and conventional methods of losing weight. After each endeavor my weight gradually increased. At a routine Dr.’s visit I tipped the scales at 337lbs . That was a rude awakening for me. I knew I had to do something proactive to reclaim my life. Now not only was my health declining but I was unhappy and had no real quality of life. I went on the internet and researched bariatric surgery and consulted my insurance company. After participation in several support groups and open house forums, I made my decision that surgery was the best option for me. Today I am 170lbs lighter. My diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia are all resolved without the aid of medications. I am a much happier person now that I am getting out and enjoying life. Many thanks to my skilled physician and his staff for all their help and assistance while on this journey. I have successfully reclaimed my life but the journey is not over. I have learned that healthy eating and living must be a part of my day-to-day life.

Like most people, I have fought with my weight most of my life. I would lose it, gain it back, lose it again, and gain back even more. I tried every diet, diet pill, and weight loss program out there. In January 2005, I decided that I had to do something. I was out of control and so unhappy. I had been researching WLS for several months before I approached my husband James about it. He was so supportive. He told me that he loved me no matter what, but whatever I decided to do he would back me 100%. I knew I needed his support to help me get through this and he gave it unconditionally. I had researched several doctors and decided on Dr. Henderson. I went to his information seminar and from there I knew I was on my way to taking back control of my health and life. On April 18, 2005, I had laparoscopic gastric bypass. Luckily, I haven’t had any problems or complications. Everything went really easy and well for me. I did a lot of research so I knew what I had to do, and I knew this was for the rest of my life. I listened to what Dr. Henderson said I needed to do and did it. He is extremely knowledgeable and he cares about his patients. It’s hard to find that nowadays. If I had any problems or issues, I called his office and his staff was extremely helpful and knowledgeable. They helped me through any questions or issues I had. You couldn’t ask for a more wonderful staff than Dr. Henderson’s. I would recommend this surgery to any person wanting to take back their health and life. I just wish I had done this sooner. On my last check up, Dr. Henderson said I had 8 more pounds to go. My lab results have always been right on the mark. I have never set my goal on a specific weight, I just wanted to be healthy again and thanks to Dr. Henderson I have my life back. Lorna Smith, Jesup, Ga.

It seems I have "dieted" all my life but I had just gotten to the point that I could not lose weight and all I seemed to do was gain. After much research, I opted to have the gastric bypass surgery. I feel that it was one of the best decisions I have ever made for myself. My surgery was performed in March 2004 and I have lost 91 pounds. I have maintained my current weight a little over a year and a half.

I would recommend Dr. Peter Henderson to anyone that is considering the surgery. He not only performs the surgery, but he is a very caring doctor and understands the mental and physical ailments that obese people have. He has a very good pre-op and follow up program. He is very involved in the support group also.

I feel so much better and healthier than I ever have. The surgery has been worth a million dollars to me and I would do it again in a heartbeat. However, anyone considering the surgery should know that it is not "the easy-way out". You go through some tough times the first few months post-op. But in the end, it is a very valuable tool to use to enjoy a longer and healthier life.

Picture a child about five years old. Very excited about going to school. Wanting to learn how to spell and write her name and then learning for the first time that her name isn’t “Chubby”. I’ve had a weight problem as far back as I can remember. It’s had a tremendous affect on my life. I was very shy. I was unable to stand in front of class at school and speak. I know it held me back in school. I never failed a grade but I could have done so much better! I wanted to participate in all kinds of activities at school and in the community but I was so shy and self-conscious that I couldn’t make myself do it.

This isn’t to say that I’ve never lost weight. I have. In fact, I’ve lost enough weight to almost get to a normal size several times, but I would always gain it back and more! Needless to say, I’ve always had low self-esteem. My husband (for 31 years and he is the best husband in the world) tried to make me feel better about myself but the weight loss is what changed me.

Now I’m more of an optimist than a pessimist. I feel like I’ve come out of a cocoon like a butterfly!

I’m much healthier. The weight loss has brought my blood pressure to normal. I no longer have acid reflux or sleep apnea. The pain that I had for years in my knees and feet is now gone. With the pain gone and not having the extra 130 pounds to carry around, I am more mobile. I’m able to work out, walk and climb stairs without difficulty. I can even bend over and tie my shoes and still breathe!

Aside from the physical aspects, I have become more outgoing and self confident. I know I look better and no longer dread having my picture taken. It has also become joyful to go clothes shopping. I can find clothes in my size on sale everywhere! I just feel great! I have more energy than I ever had in my life. I’m 50 years old. I weighed 269 pounds and was a size 24 or 3XL before the surgery in 2002. Now I am 135 pounds and a size 6. I would do it over again in a heartbeat! I’m much happier and even like myself now!

Meredith's story is similar to the hundreds of seriously overweight people we've helped. Two years after her surgery, she feels like a new person with a longer, healthier life in front of her.

Beyond the outward changes that come with major weight loss, Meredith feels much healthier and enjoys greater confidence and all her extra energy.  She says she'd do it all over again in a heartbeat. 

My name is Suzanne Bridges and I had gastric bypass surgery on September 27, 2004. This was really the first day of the rest of my life. I weighed 260 lbs. the day I went to the Brunswick Hospital. Twenty months later I am now at 165 lbs and happier than I have ever been in my life. I was a diabetic, suffered from high blood pressure, and rheumatoid arthritis. One week after my surgery I never had to take blood pressure medicine or diabetic medication again. I finally woke up and wasn’t afraid that that would be the day I had a stroke or heart attack.

My journey towards gastric bypass started in 2002. I had been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in 2001 and was put on high doses of prednisone. I gained close to 50 pounds in about 1 month. I was never able to recover from that. I tried every diet pill and exercise program with absolutely no success. I was so discouraged and hated myself and my life so much. I took anti-depressants just to make it through my everyday life. I was really interested in the surgery because I knew it would help me lose weight really fast. I HAD NO IDEA!!!

My first thing was to look into the doctors in the area that did the surgery. I read about every physician in Georgia who did this surgery. I wanted their credentials, fatalities, the program that followed the surgery, the prep that was required for the surgery, and the success stories. I know now that God answered a prayer by letting me find out about Dr. Peter Henderson. I could not have asked for a better physician. He met every expectation that I was looking for in a doctor and a program to change my life.

I tell everyone if you can make it through the preparation for the surgery you can make it through anything. At the time, some of the meetings just seemed like a waste of money but I know now it is what keeps me on track. Not only did I fix the outside but I was able to fix the inside through the counseling that helped me face my problems in the first place. I met with a counselor, had a weekend workshop, informational meeting, and support groups to go to before I could have surgery. I did it like lightening. I had every appointment complete by August of 2004. My new life was so close I could taste it but I never thought the very next month I would be on the table. I called Dr. Henderson’s office and let them know I had completed all of my steps so they started working on my pre-cert for surgery. That same day only two hours later I was told I had been approved and my surgery had been scheduled for September 27, 2004. I wanted to scream and throw up all in the same motion. I knew from that day forward I would never be the same. Two weeks seemed like two years.

Me and my husband got up that morning and drove to Brunswick. I got pretty upset right before the surgery because I think the realization of the fact I wouldn’t be fat anymore and that’s all I ever knew hit me. They gave me something to calm me down and took me to surgery. It took about three hours my family told me but I just remember waking up in the recovery room literally climbing up the hospital bed trying to get away from the pain. I had trouble coming out of anesthesia and the pain was just about unbearable. I was in the hospital for five days because of breathing problems and a fever. They thought I had a leak because of my fever so on my second day I was taken to x-ray early that morning and made to drink the worst tasting stuff of my entire life. I hadn’t had anything to eat or drink in almost three days and barium had to be my first drink. Thank God nothing was wrong with my stitches. People ask me what the pain is like and I always tell people I have nothing to compare it to because I have never been hurt and never had any type of surgery but I will never forget what I felt like in that recovery room. I just wanted my mom and a lot of pain killers. My first few weeks at home were really rough. I was supposed to be drinking protein drinks and at my one week post-op I had to eat an egg and grits. I threw up that day but really didn’t think much of because I hadn’t eaten in so long. I lost 14 pounds my first week home.

I went to Dr. Henderson’s to have my tube removed and again thought I was going to die. I swear it looked ten feet long. I told him I had gotten sick and that was normal for a lot of patients. By the time two weeks had passed and I threw up with everything I ate and drank I knew something had to be wrong and it was. I had developed a stricture where my small intestine and new stomach were joined which was blocking food passing. I had a follow up day surgery in October and again in November. My first meal after my big surgery was Thanksgiving Day in 2004. It was a scary thing for me because I had been nauseated and sick for so long. The weird thing is as sick as I was I have never said I regretted the surgery.

I thank God everyday for letting me wake up and be as close to normal as I can be. I still have problems with my arthritis but I am actually happy. I don’t feel like anything I can write in my testimonial will ever truly show people what a change I have had in my life. My marriage is thriving, my job is the best it has ever been, and my overall outlook on life is completely turned around. I know Dr. Henderson and Dr. Kent saved my life. I was killing myself and I didn’t know how to stop it. They answered a prayer that I thought would never be answered and that is to be happy with myself.

I told my husband the other day that as happy as I am being almost 100 pounds lighter and 42” smaller, being able to see a counselor and heal myself from the inside out was one of the biggest blessings. The surgery has changed me so much I would love to speak to people about this because I just don’t feel I can tell everything in this testimonial. I feel like you would need to see how happy I am and the smile on my face to know how great this surgery is. I know a lot of people may disagree with having it done but you have to do what is right for you. At 24 I didn’t want to have a stroke or a heart attack and that’s exactly what I was headed for. A great support system is the key and if you can’t get that at home there are plenty of people who have had this who will be your support system. I give thanks to Dr. Henderson and his staff everyday for the life I get to lead. He gave me the tools to find happiness.