What was the biggest challenge or concern that led you to decide to have weight loss surgery?

Michelle: I wanted to be healthier. I wanted to stop being a bystander in my children's lives and to step up and be a better example for them. I had been heavy my entire life and I just wanted to take control of it and put a stop to the endless cycle of dieting.

Grant: I wanted to be able to play with my kids, to be there for them in the future. I wanted to feel better, stop taking so many medications, and just to be healthy.

What did you weigh prior to having weight loss surgery?

Michelle: 301 pounds

Grant: 385 pounds

What type of weight loss surgery did you have?

We both had Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass. Michelle’s surgeon was Dr. Fitzgerald and Grant’s was Dr. Nora.

What was the date of your surgery?

Michelle: July 9, 2007

Grant: May 30, 2007

What do you weigh now?

Michelle: 155 pounds

Grant: 240

What is your age?

Michelle: 34

Grant: 44

How has weight loss surgery changed your life?

Michelle: I feel better now than I have in my entire life. I expected big things in my life to change – and to a certain extent they have. But on a smaller scale, I am amazed how much easier it is to do everyday things like ride in a car, fit in an airplane seat, wear a bathing suit in public, go to the movies, play at the playground with my children and just fit in a rollercoaster at a theme park. I had no idea what I was missing out on and am thankful everyday for the decision I made to take control of my weight problem. I am more active than I have ever been. I actually look forward to physical activities. I am stronger than ever and most of all I am living my life fuller than I ever dreamed possible. Having weight loss surgery will not solve all your problems but you will be amazed how many problems revolve around weight issues!

Grant: I am now off all my medications. I am more active. I feel twenty years younger. My only regret is that I did not have this surgery sooner.