September 2021

Sandra Saunders

1. What made you decide to have wls surgery?
I've been overweight my whole life "a stone for every age at school" Then I was diagnosed with "Hidradenitis Suppurativa" at a very early age, many years of Medications Then the awful circle of dietary began.. It was my Dermatologist Specialist that recommended the surgery this has been a 2 years in the making with my PHF and saving the out of pocket money.. It will be 1 year on the 14th September 2021, I will be celebrating my journey with my WLS team on the day on the Sunshine Coast.. 3 days of R&R..
2. What was your weight prior to your WLS, and... What’s the goal?
I started off at 104kg my surgeon goal 76kg and I'm 73.5 today
3. Did you get to the weight you wanted?
Oh yessssssss... I have never been this weight in my life..
4. How do you feel now that you have had the surgery?
My health is continuing improving..both my surgeon and Dermatologist are over the moon.. I never thought that at 58 years I would ever look like this, I am so grateful of my supportive family and friends and for the ability of myself to go through with it.. I am more Confident in myself..
5. Were there any problems along the way?
It was easy sailing from start to finish.. I have never experience any problems with vomiting, Eating or drinking.. I'm the lucky one..
6. Would you do it again now that you know what you know?
Omg yes, yes and yessssssss!..
7. What are some of the inspiring things you can think of that you have noticed along the way?
Going into shops and actually fitting into smaller clothes because I still pick up the bigger sizes sometimes. Been able to get out of the car quicker. People coming up to say how gorgeous I am..lol (that never happened before)
8. Did you have some happy unexpected surprises?
Yes...my "Hidradenitis Suppurativa" has actually improved and my medication was lowered..
9. What advice do you have for anyone preparing for surgery?
First of all you definitely need a good dietitian and to read everything!
10. What is the one very best thing that has resulted from your surgery? What has been the hardest part of your journey?
For myself I'm one of the lucky ones that sail through without a doubt or problems. The hardest part was being on my own after the Gastric Sleeve surgery as I came from Bundaberg to Sunshine Coast I had to stay in the hospital apartments for the 10 days as I had to come a long way.