Meet Danette W.

What was life like before bariatric surgery?

I would call my weight loss journey “A Roller Coaster Ride”. It began in my 30’s, my weight just kept going up and then down, then up higher, and never really went back down. I noticed that I was unable to do the things I used to do such as bending, kneeling, and getting up from the floor. I had just been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis. I had joint pain and knee pain, and my feet ached all the time. Even at the age of 55 I still felt like I was 35, in my mind that is. However, my body did not feel that way. In February of 2023, I had just turned 55 and realized that I had to do something. I was at my highest weight at 236.

If you put off the decision to come in for a long time, why was that? What kept you from booking a consultation?

Several years prior to 2023, I had a consult with Panhandle Weightloss Center but I wasn’t ready back then, I guess. So I was scanning through my emails and noticed I had an email from Panhandle. I responded just to see if my insurance would cover the surgery or even what other options they could help me with. So, I made an appointment and went in, Dr. Neichoy was wonderful and I made the decision at that visit that I was going to do this! I made every appointment and did all the required things in order for my insurance to cover the surgery. It was a 4 month process but I was determined.

Finally, surgery day was scheduled and I don’t think my husband fully thought that I would do it. He never really said much about ALL the visits I had or even where I was in the process. I was determined to do this and do it on my own! The day had come, it was May 16, 2023. I was excited and scared at the same time. Dr. Neichoy came in and when he prayed, I knew I would be okay.

I came out of surgery and the funniest thing I can remember, I wanted to see my stomach. I had watched so many videos of the surgery and what the stomach looked like. I remember being groggy and looking around for it, but never saw it. I didn’t ask though, I was afraid they would think I was crazy.

And that is where my weight loss journey began. It is now November 14, 2023, and it’s been 6 months. I currently weigh 182 lbs. I’ve gotten to know my “pouch” and we have an understanding. It’s a love/hate relationship! I have been at a stall for about 4 weeks and that’s okay. I’m comfortable and I know I can get that last 20 lbs off with time. I’m in no hurry, I have the rest of my life and it’s going to be a great one!

What was it like to work with the team from the start of your journey to today?

The Panhandle Weight Loss Center Team was wonderful, Dr. Neichoy, Piper, Chelsey and ALL the staff at
the Center have been wonderful.

What is your life like now? What’s the #1 thing you love being able to do now?

I love being able to just feel comfortable in my skin. I can move and sit and not worry about what I’m
wearing, is it too tight, why can’t I breathe, are they looking at me? I can do things with the grandkids that I
was unable to do before. I’m enjoying life again at 55!