I started dieting January 2004 because I weighed 625 pounds. My primary care doctor, diabetes specialist, and wound care specialist all told me that if I didn't lose weight, I would not live more than 5 years.

My diabetic specialist put me on Xenical (a fat blocker) and I went on a diet. In 8 months I lost 94 pounds but was worried about not getting all the nutrients I needed. My doctors suggested I look into bariatric surgery.

I visited a bariatric center in Ypsilanti, MI on August of 2004 for a consultation. The doctor told me I could not have the surgery because of my health condition. However, he referred me to the Sparrow Weight Management Center (SWMC) in East Lansing, MI.

I went to the SWMC September 2004. I weighed 531 pounds at this time. I was placed on an OPTIFAST meal replacement product and given an exercise program. I lost 136 pounds in 23 weeks. The surgeon told me he wanted me to get down to 400 pounds before he would do the bariatric surgery. On March 8, 2005 I had surgery at 398 pounds. Now, 11 months later (February 1, 2006), I weigh 280 pounds.

I don't think I would have stayed on my diet and lost all my weight without the support of the doctors, nurses, dietitians, exercise specialists and the extensive program provided by the SWMC.

The stomach by-pass surgery I had is not a quick cure for all my weight problems, but it is a very helpful tool in my ongoing fight to lose weight. I am very confident that it will continue to help me maintain my weight once I reach my goal.

I would not hesitate to have the surgery again. I know I will have to continue to watch my food portions and fat and sugar intake for the rest of my life. I am very happy not being a slave to food and having good health. I am very thankful for the help and support I received from the SWMC.

Harold's Pre-Surgery Challenges

• Diabetes - taking 2 pills and 4 shots of insulin daily
• High Blood Pressure
• High Cholesterol
• Breathing Problems
• Water Retention
• Heart Problems
• Cellulitis of the legs
• Knee and back pain
• Arthritis of the ankles, knees, hips and back
• 16 medications taken daily

I could not walk more than 150 feet without having to stop and sit. I would not leave the house except to go to the doctors or to sit in the car while my wife shopped. I just sat around for 3 years.

Post-Surgery Results

Now I can walk 3 miles a day and I no longer take any medications. I have the energy that I had when I was 35 years old and working. I shop with my wife, travel, ride my motorcycle and do yard work. I am very active all day and am enjoying life once again!

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