Welcome to my column. This is dedicated to all who are considering, having, and have had weight loss surgery. I don’t represent any medical group, doctor or pharmaceutical company. I can give you honest answers, straight information, and most of all, inspiration and encouragement.
My name is Patrick Burke, also known as The “Baron.” I’ve had gastric bypass surgery, and still losing weight. For me, it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. If I had to do this over, I would. I have been obese my entire life. Like most obese people, I tried virtually everything to lose weight. The problem is, I can lose it, but can not maintain it. I developed Type II Diabetes, and was at the beginning stages of sleep apnea. Not to mention the severe back, knee, and ankle pain from supporting all this weight for so long. My BMI topped out at 48, classifying me as morbidly obese. It was only a matter of time before I developed hypertension and other co-morbidities associated with obesity. Worse of all, I could see my weight rising. My weight loss journey wasn’t just a “want to” – it became a “need to.”
I have been researching, and following WLS for years, ensuring I knew exactly what I was getting into. I’ve met hundreds of wonderful people. Most have been wildly successful, while for others, it has become a nightmare. This column looks at all sides of weight loss surgery, the good and the bad, and the problems with having health insurance covering the procedure.
I invite your comments, stories, and questions. I’m here to help you understand, dispel the many myths and misconceptions of weight loss surgery.
