Vonnie M.

"I was 33 years old, weighed 245 pounds and took five different blood pressure medications. I didn't want to go down that road anymore. So I chose a different path. My Redefine team helped show me how to change my habits and live a healthier life with fewer pounds and fewer pills."

— Vonnie M., Redefining a healthy life

What were your reasons for taking the leap to weight loss surgery?

At 33 years old, I weighted 245 pounds and was on five high blood pressure medications. I'm a nurse and my doctor informed me that I was prediabetic and recommended weight loss surgery. Being in my early 30s, I was not willing to let my health get away from me.

What was the biggest life change for you after gastric sleeve surgery?

As a surgical patient, you are so educated within the first year about the entire process. But, it's the maintenance afterwards that is the biggest change. You have to learn how to maintain a healthy lifestyle that the surgery has afforded.

Since surgery, what have you been most proud of?

That I actually went through with surgery and did it. Bariatric surgery can seem really scary at first, but I'm glad that I did it, despite my fears.

If you could share one thing with a potential patient thinking about taking the leap to surgery, what would it be?

I definitely recommend a good support system, but also doing your own research. For anyone thinking about surgery, take a look at your pills and consider if you want to go down a road of medications. Reduce your cabinet space and take the leap.