Meet Joanna S.

What was life like before bariatric surgery?
Before weight loss surgery I suffered from extreme insomnia and never had motivation or energy to do much of anything. I was always in some kind of pain in my back and joints and would get winded pretty easily just walking around the grocery store or even the house. I could not stand for long periods due to back issues and pain in my legs and feet.

If you put off the decision to come in for a long time, why was that? What kept you from booking a consultation?
had heard of some patients experiencing other health issues after the surgery and I was afraid that I could end up worse than before. After realizing how over weight I was and how many issues I was already having due to being obese, I felt it was time to do something about it. I had tried pretty much every diet out there and never got any results. Weight loss surgery was the last resort and I definitely do not regret going through with it. It was much easier than I could have ever anticipated! After being educated by the doctors, and even others who have had the surgery, as to how the process worked, I felt much better about it. I just needed to change my perception of food in general and going through this helped me in so many ways.

What was it like to work with the team from the start of your journey to today?
When I first came to Panhandle Weight Loss Center I was nervous but I wanted education on the different types of surgeries for weight loss. I wanted to know the risks associated with each of the weight loss surgeries. I think I was more nervous about the risks more than anything. When I first met Dr Neichoy he was very encouraging and made it seem so easy. He did talk with me about the risks associated with weight loss surgery but also the risks associated with obesity. It was at that moment I knew I wanted to go through with the surgery and go on this journey of becoming a healthier and happier me. EVERYONE at Panhandle Weight Loss Center have been nothing but positive, supportive, and encouraging each step of the way. From the weighing and body scans that made me cringe, to the stress test for the surgery. Each and every appointment I went through with the dietitian and nurse practitioner leading up to the surgery were empowering! They all made me feel like I could do this! Dr. Neichoy and Dr. Schneiderjon were amazing and I felt almost no pain after the surgery. The procedure was quick and the decision was life changing!

What is your life like now? What’s the #1 thing you love being able to do now?
I had my surgery August 22, 2022, and since then I have lost 60 pounds. I am able to stand for longer periods of time, my back, legs and feet don’t bother me anymore and I actually get about 8 hours of sleep every night! The one thing I can do now that I was not able to do for so many years is cross my legs when sitting. I can sit Indian style on the floor and I can actually get up off the floor with little to no issues! I feel stronger and more energized and I crave more activity!