For Deborah Balfour of Acworth, Georgia, losing weight had been a lifelong struggle. After trying countless diets, fad programs and medications, she reached a point where everyday activities like sitting on the floor with her preschool students, playing with her grandson and even walking were becoming increasingly difficult.
In December 2021, Deborah decided it was time to make a change. She underwent sleeve gastrectomy at Northside Hospital Atlanta with Dr. Nathaniel Lytle and Bariatric Innovations of Atlanta.
Deborah says Dr. Lytle immediately made her feel comfortable and supported as she navigated her decision about surgery. Today, she says bariatric surgery has given her something she never thought she could have: freedom. She can get on the floor with her students, play on the playground with her grandson and move through life with greater confidence and happiness.
Her journey also showed her the importance of support. Through her care team and bariatric support group, Deborah found the encouragement she needed to stay committed to her new lifestyle.
Now, she's passionate about sharing her experience and encouraging others considering bariatric surgery to ask questions, do their research and take advantage of aftercare and support. “It will free you up, and it is a wonderful thing," she said.
Hear Deborah share her inspiring journey and how bariatric surgery helped her get back to the life she wanted to live.
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*The health story shared here is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Patients should consult with their own physician before making medical decisions.
