February 2022
Debbie Wullschleger
1. What made you decide to have wls surgery?
sick and tired to be overweight and wanting to get healthier and be available for my 4 boys
2. What was your weight prior to your WLS, and... What’s the goal?
150kg. goal 75kg
3. Did you get to the weight you wanted?
no, not yet, but being 50kg lighter >>> I am a different person... still working on losing more and becoming fitter.
4. How do you feel now that you have had the surgery?
I would not want to miss it for a day. It takes that constant stress in the mind away of gaining again after a piece of cake... it's the peace of knowing that my food intake is under control and that i will even more progress to health in the future.
5. Were there any problems along the way?
no, i had a very smooth run and still very happy with my sleeve.
6. Would you do it again now that you know what you know?
Absolutely. What I would like more of, would be support on the mindset, emotional eating and habits changes. this is just not addressed enough and I know now how important it is to address those underlaying core issues to succeed with this surgery. The surgery itself will only go so far... if we don't address the WHY behind our eating and lifestyle behaviours, they will slowly creep back in and we'll fall back in those old habits.
7. What are some of the inspiring things you can think of that you have noticed along the way?
more flexibility, off high blood pressure medications, able to walk better and exercise (limited with my knee damage), happier and way more confidence, I was able to built my business in this industry, as I am walking the path for myself, being more active with my kids and family. In general, a massive mental improvement, as food is not dictating my life anymore, but I am in control of food and the choices i make.
8. Did you have some happy unexpected surprises?
many... compliments, break througths on a personal development journey, working through food and sugar addiction...
9. What advice do you have for anyone preparing for surgery?
Do your research, be prepared for things to be hard and know that it is not the easy way out. Often we hear this from other people, but it is not! The surgery is only one helpful tool along the way and we still have to put our mental and physical work to it. Don't just believe that the surgery will magically solve all your self doubts and negative self talk.. THAT's where true change will happen, when we start to accept and love ourselves, no matter what number the scales show!
10. What is the one very best thing that has resulted from your surgery? What has been the hardest part of your journey?
Massive weight loss and more confidence in myself. I feel, that I am only entering the hard parts after 7 years now, as I am not losing anymore and I believe it is, because I am not able to nourish my body with enough good, healthy nutrients... this might be a big problem for many in the long term..