Erika: LAP-BAND Surgery

Growing up I never had issues with self-esteem. Never, because I was always thin. In fact, I remember, as a child being teased for being too skinny and constantly being told that I didn’t eat enough.

Well, add years of thinking to yourself “no way will I ever be overweight” to 2 kids via caesarean to not taking the time to exercise to saying to yourself “I’ll start watching my weight tomorrow.” Somehow the weight just seems to keep coming and coming AND IT ALWAYS FINDS YOU.

I went from a lean military body (U.S. Army) at a fit 130 pounds to a staggering 240 pounds. I was so depressed. I didn’t live in my hometown so it was easy to “hide out.”

I’d come home to visit my family and that’s as far as I would go. I would never go out to visit old friends. Definitely not make the mistake of going to the mall because the risk of seeing anyone I knew was too great.

My entire attitude about life had changed. I went from the friendly, outspoken, life of the party, social person that everyone knew me as to this quiet, shell of the person I was.

I’d heard about the lap band and had begun doing research prior to starting to work with Dr. Bagnato. I thought no way could this be something that would work for me. I just knew I should be strong enough to do this on my own. However, after taking a long look at myself and my two beautiful children – I knew the lap band was the perfect decision for me.

I got my band in June 2008 and have lost 75 pounds. The revelation that I was getting back to me came one afternoon when I was in the back yard with my kids. We were running around with the dog and I was chasing all of them when my son suddenly stopped and looked at me and said, “Mommy, you’re running!” It was such an awesome moment I’ll never forget it!

I wouldn’t give anything for this journey. Since having the surgery and being an employee here with Dr. Bagnato at Palmyra Surgical I feel I have a greater appreciation for what each patient walking through the door feels.

With each pound, whether up or down, I can identify with what they are going through. I want to hear their story because in some way I can relate.

Now when I walk past a mirror, I back up for 2 reasons. #1 I can’t believe it’s really me and #2 I’m so glad it’s me and so is my husband!!!