“I can’t wait to show people how strong I am”

Join Amy as she continues her journey through the Bariatric Surgery Institute at McLaren Macomb.

Months ago, Amy took the step to improving her overall health.

Having always struggled with her weight, Amy made the decision to explore bariatric surgery with the Bariatric Surgery Institute at McLaren Macomb.

Now months into the pre-surgical process, Amy now has her surgery set and can’t wait to continue her journey toward improved health.

Do you have a surgery date?

Yes! June 24 is my surgery date! I met with Dr. Pesta in early April, which was the final step before getting my surgery date. I can't wait for it to get here!

What have you been doing to prep for your surgery?

I have been maintaining the same diet and exercise routines, counting calories, following a low carb/high protein diet and getting out to walk and enjoy the beautiful spring weather.

How are you feeling?

I am feeling excited about the future. I can wait to see how this new lifestyle will change my life. I have joined the ‘Slimming Superstars’ Facebook page, and enjoy all of the advice and stories that have been shared there from others who are in the same place as me, have been in the same place in the past, and are moving to their new futures. It is inspiring, and I can't wait to be one of those success stories!

How’s the motivation level?

Right now, I am still feeling motivated, but am anxious to get to my surgery date. I started the process with the Bariatric Surgery Institute about eight months ago, doing all of the pre-op work, preparing myself for the surgery, doing monthly weigh-ins and food tracking, and I am just ready to have my surgery! I can't wait to start my new journey post-surgery!

How have family and friends helped?

My friends and family are super supportive! They are all very excited for me after seeing how this surgery changed my mom's life. My husband has been there every step of the way, making sure that I know what I am doing this for. My parents too! They have my back and know that I am doing what is right for me and encouraging me to not give up and to keep pushing forward even as I wait for my surgery date to arrive.

Have you faced any adversity?

I don't feel I have personally faced any adversity yet, at least from the folks I have shared my surgery news with. I know that it will come as I get closer to the date and share my story with others who may not know what these types of surgeries can do for people's lives!

I have seen some instances of people saying it is the easy way out and that there are other ways to lose weight. I have tried those diets, ways of eating, and lifestyle changes. They work for a short period of time and then they stop working. This is not the easy way out. It is hard, it will be difficult and test my strength at times, but I know I am doing what is right for me. They don't know my story or what I have done to get to where I am.

I can't wait to show how strong I am and what it takes to do what I am doing!