My journey is distinct, just as each of us is. The way we were raised and the life experiences we’ve encountered shape who we are. A common thread is that we all have desires. Growing up in a large Italian family means plenty of gatherings centered around food. So much food! My connection and attitude towards food have significantly changed over time. When I first started my weight loss journey, I believed that I would no longer find joy in food. However, I quickly discovered that this was false.

My daughter and I moved to Florida in December of 2019 after the purchase of our first home. I lived in Boston, Massachusetts, since 1971. Yes, I am that old! I was heavy for over 30 years, ranging from 305 to 380 lbs. My left hip started to deteriorate. It began with taking medication, then injections and narcotics. No surgeons would replace my hip due to my unhealthy BMI, which could cause infection and equipment failure, just to name a few possible complications. Eventually, my hip collapsed, leaving me with limited mobility and excruciating pain. I became hopeless and felt like a prisoner in my body.

 During the coronavirus pandemic, I gained around 75 more pounds during that year. After falling, the hip pain was too much, and I went to the hospital, where I was admitted and, after a week, transferred to a nursing home. So, there I was, 51, and in a nursing home. I wanted to give up! After a couple of months, I came home and started physical therapy, which was extremely difficult due to my weight and hip situation. My daughter cared for me around the clock as I had to do everything from the hospital bed that was set up in our family room. I searched for bariatric doctors, found Dr. Donald Fridley’s office, and made an appointment. The EMTs had to transport me on a stretcher due to being unable to stand or walk. After a few weeks, I tried to get out of bed and realized my hip did not trouble me. The idea that the hip was fractured had healed. I had a new physical therapist who was 100% real with me. I felt like I could relate to her. After a couple of physical therapy sessions, I transferred into a wheelchair and was able to start doing my housework and taking care of myself. This was a game-changer. She helped to empower me with her character and professionalism, which set the motion for the path I am currently on.

The day I met Dr. Donald Fridley, his kind staff were in the waiting room. They accommodated me where I was currently in my situation. I was a mess emotionally. I was embarrassed and desperate for help! I left SABP feeling that there was light at the end of the tunnel, and I became determined to get healthy one way or another.

 In July of 2023, I began the RNY process. It was not as hard as I had made it out to be. The support and encouragement available were precisely what I needed. On April 12, 2024, Dr. Fridley and his remarkable team performed the gastric bypass. To add more difficulty to the hip issue was a massive abdominal hernia that was right in the way of where the surgery needed to take place. Dr. Fridley and his team worked their magic. About four months later, after losing almost 70 pounds, my hernia started giving me trouble, and I had to have surgery. Again, Dr. Fridley and his fantastic team repaired the hernia.

My starting weight in March 2024 was over 450. On April 12, 2024, my surgery date, I weighed 436; as of 11/18/2024, I am 334 pounds. I am walking and thriving, and I have energy, a better mood, and an outlook on life, pushing me to reach my goals. I am on my way to a new hip soon, and Dr. Donald Fridley and all his teammates and staff gave me the tools and encouragement to help me help myself. I am forever grateful for all their tireless efforts and commitment. They inspired me to finish my master’s degree in social work, and I decided to work in the bariatric field. They honestly all have changed lives.