I have just finished reading your recent newsletter. As always, it was both encouraging and inspiring. So with renewed direction and a new lease on life, I feel compelled to share this story with you and your readers.

On June 16, 2003 I looked over the surgical mask and into the eyes of Dr. Phil Schauer, my surgeon. His eyes were caring and confident. As I lay on the operating room table, his look reassured me that I had made the correct decision in regards to my future, as well as my selection of surgeons.

My journey to this point had started in November of 2002. At the age of 48, and at 6 feet 3 three inches tall, I weighed 346 pounds. Like most guys I carried my mass reasonably well. I was however hypertensive. My treatment included two high dose blood pressure medications that were not controlling my blood pressure. In addition, I was having problems with my blood sugar levels. My family physician noted that weight loss was essential for a brighter future. On that date, I started on a very strict diet. I also started investigating weight loss surgery options.

Over the next three months, I stuck to my diet with a passion. At my next doctor’s visit, my reward was 8 pounds of weight loss and a confirmed diagnosis. I was now diabetic.

Upon hearing those words, a vale of depression unlike anything I had ever experienced descended upon me. However, the following day, depression and self pity were replaced by my determination to seek out those who could help me turn my life around.

After speaking with several surgeons and groups, attending programs and countless hours of study regarding the RNY procedure, I chose to place my future with Dr. Schauer and laparoscopic RNY surgery. While awaiting my surgery date, I continued my diet and exercise programs. On my way to the operating room I weighed in at 331 pounds, and was still hypertensive and diabetic.

This morning, I weighed in at 241 pounds. That is 90 pounds lost in just four and one half months. Today, I am just 16 pounds from my goal weight of 225 pounds!

However, the best part of this story is my blood sugar level as well as my blood pressure are completely normal and have been so for the last three months. At age 49, I am now in the best shape and health that I have experienced in over twenty five years.

Thank you for your continued inspiration and tips. They are greatly appreciated. Please feel free to share my name and email with anyone considering this procedure. It helped me a great deal being able to speak with a few who went before me.

Sincerely;

Jesse W. Keller
jwkeller@mauhs.com