Patient Testimonials

My Lap Band Story to
Date My journey to date...

Laparoscopic banding procedure December 2008

I have always been chubby or overweight. There wasn't ever a time where I was referred to as "skinny". Even as a baby, my mother says I the most contented child as long as I had something to eat. During our sea journey migrating from Italy when I was two years old, I lived on chunks of parmesan cheese! Yes, my tastebuds were already well refined.

Most of you reading this story will identify with what I'm saying. Although I wasn't dangerously overweight, the scales never showed my weight lowering, but each time I weighed myself, I was heavier. I just got bigger and bigger. The only time I remember losing any weight was when I fell in love. During those first two amazing weeks, I could live on air alone. But the euphoria didn't last too long and the yo yo dieting started from around 18 years of age until late last year, in my 49th year.

My father had recently undergone bowel cancer surgery and all siblings were told to be aware, look after ourselves, be conscious of our eating, so for me, this meant it was now time to stop mucking around and time to get serious about my weight. I tend to take after my father's side of the family, so I was petrified. It was time to get serious, so lap band surgery became my only option.

Yes, of course I want to look wonderful. We all do and that is one of the many benefits, but mostly my choice was for health reasons. I want to live as long as I can for myself, my children and my loved ones. In fact, as far as I'm concerned, I'm not going to die at all!

The decision to undertake lap-banding surgery was not taken lightly. I researched and investigated this option for about 8 years before taking the step. I discussed it with friends, family and some people I knew who had already had the surgery. I decided to take the leap and had my surgery one week before Xmas, 2008. Yes, my first step was to realise I would not be able to enjoy lashings of Christmas food just one week out of surgery. And this was the first of many adjustments to my thinking about food and how it made me feel.

Today, early July 2009, I have lost 21.5kg (having started off at 98.5kg). I am very happy to say the least and I feel fantastic. I don't crave the large amounts of sweets or carbohydrates I used to consume and if I do, I tell myself that I remember what they tasted like and I enjoyed them at the time, but now it was time to stop abusing my body.

There are many obvious changes in me. I look better. I feel amazing. I have had to buy new clothes. I am more confident even though I already was at 98.5kg. I look much younger. I no longer suffer from reflux and no longer take this medication.

Am I struggling with anything at the moment? Maybe just one tiny thing...and that is the extra attention I am getting.

It's a wonderful world and a wonderful life, and too short a time on earth. Don't waste it.….feel the best you can and live life to the fullest.

Current weight: 77.2kg
Goal weight: 63kg

P

2003 at 120kgs	July 2006 67kgs	November 2006 57kgs

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E

Laparoscopic banding procedure August 2000

Dear Intending Patients

I had my Laparoscopic Band operation nearly four years ago and I am extremely pleased with the results. Not only have I lost kilo's, but I have gained a lot more energy, and raised my self esteem. Other members of my family have also had the Lap Band.

P
Age 59

Laparoscopic Banding Procedure October 2002

Since having the operation, I have got so much energy and enthusiasm to do things and go places. It has given me self confidence that I have never had. Once you start losing the weight it becomes an addiction because you can't fail and you are in control for your success. The support that you receive from all the staff and their eagerness for you to do well and feel good is terrific.

A
Age 27

Dear Dr. John A Copp

I would like to take the opportunity to thank you for your professional services provided to me from the moment I was referred to you for a Laparoscopic Banding Procedure.

I was an overweight 140kg person at the time in June 2003. Now in July 2004 I have lost 40kg as a direct result of the Banding, as you are aware this weight loss has been a life changing experience, as I am now over sleep Apnoea, Blood Pressure back to normal, as well my Cholesterol has dropped well under the acceptable limit.

The post operation care offered by you and your staff has been great, as nothing seems to be too much trouble. I am always made to feel welcome at your office by your helpful staff.

Once again thank you for your time and continuing care

Thanks.

G
Age 52

My name is Dianne, I am 43 years old,married with a daughter and a grandson. Twelve months ago I underwent Lap Band Surgery with Dr. John A Copp. My weight had see-sawed for years, since undergoing the surgery I have lost 50 kilogram. I still want to lose another 40 kilograms.

By losing the weight slowly and exercising my skin has stayed fairly taunt,I eat regularly, but only small meals and I feel satisfied. I am happier, have much more energy and able to complete my work much easier. By undergoing this procedure I have extended my life and I have done this for my self and my family. The support that I received post op from Dr. Copp and Associates and the Dietitian is paramount to my success.

Thanks

D
Age 43

I weighed 113kg and was uncomfortable and miserable. I had osteoartrhritis in my back which was constantly giving me grief. I had no confidence in myself and wouldn't even go swimming with my kids because I was so ashamed of how much weight i had put on. I tried lots of different weight loss programs but could never lose more than 10kgs. Then I would give up and put those 10 kg back on and some more. I was a typical yo-yo dieter. In July 2001 I had the Lap Band Surgery and as a result i have now lost most of the excess weight .Clothes shopping has never been so much fun, i can now buy clothes that i never dreamed of wearing before. I bought a pair of size 12 pants for the first time in many years. My health problems have improved dramatically and my back doesn't hurt anymore. My kids are delighted in measuring me with their arms wrapped around me to see how far they could reach. I now have so much more confidence and enthusiasm for life. What a wonderful future i now have to look forward to. The Lap Band has changed my life and my kids life because i can now do everything with them and i am not ashamed of my body. A huge thank-you to Dr. Copp and his wonderful team for giving me a second chance to really live my life.

C
Age 36