Gillian’s Story

Anyone who has been overweight knows the ongoing inner battles that we face daily.

I have been overweight since I was 21, a year before my first child was born. I went and sought professional advice from my local GP who informed me that I was simply “contented” and let it be. After the arrival of Jeoff (my first born) my weight steadily increased, especially after the birth of my twins – my post birth weight was 117 kg which by the next year when I had my fifth son had climbed to 125kg.

The heavier I got, the more depressed I got, I hated looking in the mirror, hated my photo being taken and would never swim in public areas. I tried many so-called successful diets over the years, and yes, I would lose some weight (usually 15-20kg) but then, presto, I not only put the weight back on, I would be even heavier than when I started. (My all time highest was 136kg).

My knees started to deteriorate; I got puffed out doing the simplest of household chores, and hated exercise with a vengeance – what can be good about exercise when you feel like it is killing you. I knew I had to do something and do it fast if I wanted to be healthy and fit enough to one day enjoy the grandchildren that may come along – my biggest fear is that I wouldn’t be around to see them or be too heavy and unwell to participate in their lives.

I overheard someone talking about “Lap-Banding” and how they had lost a remarkable amount of weight. This of course aroused my curiosity, and my Lap Band Journey began!

I spoke to several people, researched many websites, one of which was the Perth Bariatric Clinic. The more I read and spoke to the team of people there, the more I realized this was my answer to all my prayers!!!!

The first day I met with Dr. Gordon Padovan, I knew it was a life changing meeting – for once there was someone that was handing me a lifeline – literally my own life!!

Gordon was very open and sympathetic to my problem, and make me understand it is indeed a health issue that I need help with – for once I wasn’t on my own. He referred me to a dietitian who further cemented that I needed help and help fast.

I had my Gastric Lap Band Surgery on February 6th, 2007 (fifteen weeks ago) . My starting weight was 126.5kg and now I am down to 105 kg ! Down from a size 22 to 16/18. I work out every morning, I love walking and my goal is to start jogging. I no longer feel tired; I have heaps of energy and feel terrific!

I know I have a long way to go (my dream weight is 75kg) but I also have the confidence that with the help of Gordon and Jocelyn and his team from the Perth Bariatic Clinic, I will indeed be that weight and be a fit and healthy grandmother when the grandchildren do come along.

I urge anyone who is thinking about this life changing procedure to speak to Dr Padovan and take a positive step forward in you life.