Pamela's Weight-Loss Surgery Story

When I joined the Navy 26 years ago, I was at my ideal weight — 5’8” and 138 pounds. But, as the years passed, I seemed to put on weight every time I changed command. Three children and several military transfers later, I had almost doubled what I weighed when I first joined.

After 20 years of active duty, I retired from the Navy. I was no longer physically active and my weight shot out of control. I weighed 270 pounds and felt terrible about myself.

Pamela before and after weight-loss surgery at Sharp 

My health was rapidly declining. Because of my weight, I was taking six medications a day to control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and type II diabetes. I slept with a respirator to counter my sleep apnea and went to bed each night fearing that I would stop breathing and die in my sleep.

I tried all of the expensive diets and participated in several weight-loss studies without success. Each time I tried, I would only lose a few pounds and then gain it all back. After many failed diets, I started to research gastric bypass surgery. When my primary care physician and insurance company gave me the green light, I decided to go to Sharp Chula Vista. With all the information I gathered, I knew that if I was going to take such a drastic step, I wanted it to be with the Bariatric Surgery team at Sharp Chula Vista.

Everyone at Sharp Chula Vista was incredibly helpful and supportive. My surgeon, Francisco Hernandez, MD, has an impeccable surgical record. I had my moments of being scared, but the soothing words of caring nurses along with Dr. Hernandez's previous experience as a surgeon left me feeling confident that I was in the best hands.

Look At Me Now
Since the surgery, I have gone from a size 22 to a size 8. In fact, my 15-year-old daughter and I now share the same jeans. I no longer suffer from high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes or sleep apnea. When I run into people I haven’t seen in years, they have to do a double take before coming up and telling me how great I look. They’re right. I do look great, but most importantly, I feel better than I have in years. The new Pam is here to stay.

For More Information
To learn more about Sharp's weight loss surgery program, attend a free informational seminar. To register, call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277) or register online at Sharp's weight-loss surgery seminar.