Evansville,

Member Since October 2008

My Story
This time one year ago I was 265 pounds and a size 24. I was in constant pain from arthritis and overloaded knees, I had sleep apnea, high blood pressure and constant fatigue.

After many years of yoyo dieting and many health issues caused from obesity, I talked to my doctor about gastric bypass surgery. I had the surgery on August 18, 2008.

Unfortunately I was one of the statistics you hear about where the surgery went bad. On August 22 they had to open me up and clean out infection and repair a leak. I had drains and tubes coming from my stomach and back. I also had ICU psychosis, I don't have much recollection of my two months in the hospital post op, but my husband and family remember all to well. I had some really wild hallucinations, and was out of my head for about six weeks. I was finally diagnosed with MRSA, at this point I have been in the hospital for eight weeks, and I went home with IV therapy. Two weeks later I was back in the hospital with a raging temperature after a week of test it turned out that I had a yeast infection in my blood system, another week in the hospital. Finally I began to gain some strength.

All this time I am unable to walk or care for myself, I was as weak as a newborn baby. Finally I was beginning to feel human again. At this point I had lost 30 some pounds.

As soon as I was able to drive I went straight to the closest Curves (Evansville west) and signed up. It was slow going but every time I left Curves I was a little stronger than the time before and feeling better than I ever had.

In December Lynette (owner) put up a "Help Wanted" sign, I applied, I have been working for and working out five days a week every since. I feel like a million bucks and my husband say's I look like it too. I don't ever remember feeling as good as I do now. I am off all meds. And now one year post op I weight 165 pounds and wear a size 8.

I know the surgery is a major factor in my weight loss but I credit Curves with the mental and physical improvement. I have firmed and toned as I lost and that has saved me from the need for surgery to remove sagging skin.

I love my Curves, I get to have a great time, and encourage and be encouraged every day. We have an awesome group of employees and our members are the best.

I am a Curves member turned Circuit Coach.

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