May 2022
Kel
1. What made you decide to have wls surgery?
Love. I have a beautiful partner who I want to have a long healthy life with. I have the most incredible godsons who I want to be able to play with forever. And I’ve seen the pain that an early death creates. I had the sleeve purely based on love.
2. What was your weight prior to your WLS, and... What’s the goal?
My biggest was around 175kg. I started exercising and changing my eating habits after my ankle was reconstructed, and I got 50kg off. But I needed a long term solution, as my weight continued to fluctuate usually in line with my mental health. I was 134.5kg when I had the sleeve. My goal was between 70-75kg.
3. Did you get to the weight you wanted?
Yes. I am currently 60.3kg.
4. How do you feel now that you have had the surgery?
I’ve had a few issues including narrowing, and struggling to tolerate a lot of anything at the moment. For several months we’ve been trying to resolve this and stop the weight loss. It’s been challenging and emotionally draining, but I have a great team. I feel confident we’ll get there.
5. Were there any problems along the way?
The food - getting used to portion size and different eating habits - knowing when to stop and what foods to avoid.
6. Would you do it again now that you know what you know?
I would, but I would really make myself more aware of potential complications. My weight was a huge problem and impacted every part of my life. Even with the issues, I’m able to do so much more to help myself keep going emotionally and physically.
7. What are some of the inspiring things you can think of that you have noticed along the way?
The moment my wife could wrap her arms around me. Being able to run over 150km in a month to raise money for mental health. Spending the day chasing my boys through Melbourne Zoo and keeping up with them.
8. Did you have some happy unexpected surprises?
I’ve found the freedom to try new things. I’m Autistic, and I can have a hard time finding things that ’work’ for me. After years of thinking about it, I’ve finally started learning aerials. Turns out that I love to fly.
9. What advice do you have for anyone preparing for surgery?
Do your research. Be confident in your team. Follow the instructions. Believe in your journey.
10. What is the one very best thing that has resulted from your surgery? What has been the hardest part of your journey?
The best thing is seeing that my outside appearance matches my inside. I feel free to be myself.