Jacque's weight loss success story
When Jacque Chastain's only daughter informed her mother that grandchildren would have to wait three to five years until her career was established, Jacque feared she would not live long enough to see them.
At 313 pounds, Jacque battled weight problems all her life. Other major health issues had also resulted from the obesity: high blood pressure, sleep apnea, high cholesterol, joint pain, borderline diabetes, and a sad, overall state of depression. After years of research, Jacque found Tom Brown, MD at HCA HealthONE Presbyterian St. Luke's, who specializes in bariatric surgery.
Jacque underwent a Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB), which surgically converted her stomach into a tiny pouch about one to two ounces in size. Recovery came without a lot of pain, since Dr. Brown performed her surgery laparoscopically (a minimally invasive technique). This allows fewer incisions and intrusion to the body. For about a month after surgery, Jacque ate only a liquid diet of broth, Jello and protein drinks. Later, additional foods were added. 18 months after her surgery, Jacque has lost a total of 136 pounds and she is still losing.
Of course, this required a change in wardrobe. But while others may enjoy shopping after surgery, Jacque still finds herself heading to the plus size department. "I don't know where I belong anymore!"
She is extremely dedicated to her surgery decision, even driving up to six hours — and over two daunting mountain passes — just to attend the monthly support groups offered through the Bariatric Program at Presbyterian St. Luke's in Denver. Jacque is thrilled with her wonderful results and the recovery she experienced. Happily, her other health problems also have resolved because of her surgery and lifestyle changes. In fact, she no longer has to take any prescription medications. "Looking better is only one benefit. Feeling good and enjoying living my life is the greatest benefit of all." Still, she realizes the seriousness of bariatric surgery, and encourages others to be very careful in making the decision to have surgery. "Do your own research, and make the decision based on what you are willing to do to lose weight," she suggests. For herself, Jacque recognizes that, "I did this to save my life. Food was not my friend. It was killing me. Without the surgery, I knew I was going to die way too soon."