Genevieve: LAP-BAND Surgery

Like so many others, my weight was a struggle my whole life.  I was a chubby as a child and grew up believing that was normal.  As a teenager and young adult, I became complacent and allowed myself to rely on food for comfort and rewards, to the point that it was controlling me and I had lost my willpower.  For many years, avoided cameras, mirrors, shopping with “the girls”, and anything that involved wearing a swimsuit.  I had stopped truly living my life but the sad part is, I didn’t realize it.  Sure, over the years I tried different diets, even losing some weight and feeling pretty good about myself at times, but it never lasted.  I spiraled into a depression about my weight, which just made things worse.  For my 30th birthday, my husband and I went to the Biltmore House in NC.  We had a wonderful time but when I saw the pictures from our trip, I was mortified!  I was heavier than I’d ever been in my life!  I knew then and there I had to get healthy. I thought, “am I going to be 40 wishing I had done this 10 years ago?”

Right from the start Dr. Aguila put me at ease with his demeanor and knowledge.  At my first appointment I came into the office with three pages of questions.  Dr. Aguila was so patient with me and addressed every one of my concerns thoroughly. He took excellent care of me during and after my Nov 2007 surgery. I moved from the Tampa area last summer but make a point to see Dr. Aguila whenever I’m in town because I don’t trust any other surgeon more than him. Tina has been a wonderful source of information and guidance, having had Lap-band herself.  She is always ready to take care of me and answer any question I have.  Honestly, I when I walk in the office, I feel as if I have a whole squad of cheerleaders there cheering me on to my success!