MY JOURNEY THROUGH WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY

Welcome to my personal web site! I am just a Kindergarten teacher who has always lived life with a passion. I love "people" and love what I do everyday to make a precious child's life better. I have had many "bumps" in my journey through this life and this site is only to share one of those "big" ones with you. I hope this site will help you believe in yourself, if you are obese, and that you will know that there is an answer to the misery of this condition. I found an answer. It has changed my life. I had this surgery on June 4, 2001 and as of June 4, 2003, I have lost 197 lbs! I am a new person! No one knows except those that go through the anguish of being overweight what it can do to your psyche. I also know that I made an "adult decision" about having the gastric bypass surgery. I take responsibility for the sacrifice it will cost me. I know that it is a "tool" to help me have a healthier life. It is NOT a permanent "diet pill"!! Use the "tool", you win. Do not use it properly and you could lose your life. This is serious, drastic surgery! I "went by the book" to make it successful for me and you can too! You will need to make a conscious, competent decision once you have researched it. You will have to do what is right for you and no one can make that decision but YOU. There is much myth out there. Remember to do your research and get the facts. People around you cannot understand nor perceive what this surgery can or cannot do for you. Only skilled, trained surgeons can help you understand its pros and cons. It is a decision you must make on your own! However the sacrifice I made was worth it. God gave me back my life! I am truly blessed. So through this page, I am "reaching out" to those who need a "hand to hold". If, after, seeing the contents here, you need me to do that, contact me and I will be there for you. Thanks! ggpeele

On this home page, I'll introduce myself and talk about my reasons for wanting this weight loss surgery (WLS). I have found an answer for my life! It is just the best thing I ever did for myself. I cannot tell you to do it. I can tell you to research it, get your information, do your homework and decide what is right for you. It is a sacrifice but it was worth it to me! You will never "eat" the same as you did before. It is truly a life-altering experience! It is a matter of what you are willing to give up in your life to be healthy. That is the bottom line. It has made a believer out of me that my life can be the best! Please let me know you have been to visit. You can send me a message below or you can use my email which is on the "Contact Me" page. Thanks so much!

Hoorah! 172 lbs Thinner! July 2002

A WORD ABOUT MY SURGEON AND HIS STAFF: Dr. David Anderson, Dr. Balder, Dr. Cutry, and Angie Kriss, their weight loss nurse

I have never in my life had such validation and sincere concern for my obesity until I met the office staff at Floyd Medical Associates in Florence, South Carolina! The doctors, their nurse, and the staff made me feel special. Their concern for my health was unmatched by anyone I had ever seen before! They certainly "go the distance" when it comes to special medical care and concern. They went above and beyond the call of duty. I never once felt that I was not important to them. It fills my heart full of gratitude and respect to be able to call each of them my "friend." Their "bedside" manner is remarkable and I do not know how they continue every day to have the time and patience to help any who enter their doors.

They are certainly a "breed apart"! Their good reputation and level of expertise in their field of surgery is a much deserved reward for each of them. What's more is that they offer their services to anyone no matter where you live or what problem you have to overcome. Their help and support is sincere and never ending. I am so very proud to know each ot them! It is an honor to be associated with such a dynamic, devoted team of

caring, well trained surgeons, a vivacious, smart, giving weight loss nurse, and a warm, sincere office staff! God Bless Each of them for what they do every day to reach out and touch people's lives!

I will continue to add new photos on my journey through this transition in my life. I hope they will inspire and encourage all who were in the same position as I was. God Bless Each of You in your quest for happiness and health!