“I had gastric sleeve surgery nearly 2.5 years ago at the age of 22. I was extremely overweight at 313 lbs when my weight loss journey began. I had contemplated the surgery before but my insurance would not cover it. When I discovered the surgery at a cheaper rate, I was very skeptical. I prayed about it, spoke with my family and my pastor, and decided I would do it. I’ve lost 118 lbs and have managed to keep it off. Overall, I make better lifestyle choices, significantly less fried food, no carbonated beverages, and limited bread/sweets. I have 5 small cuts that you can barely see now and had little to no pain only taking 2 pain pills after surgery. Most were discomfort due to being cut and was sorer than in pain. If I had to do it again, I would and I would recommend it to anyone. I went from a size 28 to a size 16 wedding dress. I feel better, I can do more and have gotten my happiness back that I never even knew I lost.”