Heather’s VSG Before and After Story

Kimberly’s gastric sleeve success story

At 240 pounds, pain and self-consciousness kept Kimberly from experiences with her family. Gastric sleeve surgery in November 2019 helped her reach 131 pounds—and rediscover confidence, mobility, and the freedom to enjoy life.

Missing moments with her family

After having children, Kimberly says her weight began affecting both her health and her daily life. She avoided summer clothes, felt uncomfortable in the heat, and struggled with aches that made activity difficult.

Some days, the physical and emotional pain made her want to stay home. She also felt that her relationship with herself affected her relationships with others.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery in November 2019

Kimberly chose gastric sleeve surgery in November 2019. She describes it as a tool that gave her a second chance to take part in life with greater comfort and confidence.

Losing 109 pounds and moving without pain

Kimberly reports going from 240 pounds to 131 pounds. She can now walk without constant breaks and run on a treadmill without pain.

She says her progress also helped her avoid knee surgery for almost five years. The aches, pain, and emotional burden that once limited her have continued to fade.

Enjoying life with her grandchildren

Kimberly can play with her grandchildren, ride roller coasters without fear or shame, and even cross her legs comfortably.

Her only regret is not making the change sooner, when her children were younger. Today, she is grateful that her grandchildren get to experience this more active and confident version of her.

Support that helped her stay on track

Kimberly credits JourneyLite and Dr. Curry with providing open communication and encouragement throughout the five years following surgery.

When she slipped, she says a phone call helped her regain focus. That ongoing support made her feel cared for and gave her the confidence to keep moving forward.

Kimberly’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric sleeve surgery

Surgery date

November 2019

Starting weight

240 pounds

Reported weight

131 pounds

Total lost

109 pounds

This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Surgical eligibility, recovery, mobility, pain, and weight-loss results vary. Please discuss individual treatment options and risks with a qualified healthcare professional.

Julie’s gastric sleeve success story

After a lifetime of weight struggles and reaching 378 pounds, Julie began rebuilding her health through medical weight loss, counseling, and gastric sleeve surgery. She reports losing 202 pounds—and gaining mobility, confidence, and a life she once thought was out of reach.

Growing up believing weight was simply her life

Julie remembers being bullied, teased, and humiliated about her weight for as long as she can remember. Doctors told her to lose weight, but she says they did not offer practical tools that could help her create lasting change.

As her weight continued to climb in adulthood, the possibility of a different future felt increasingly distant.

A health turning point at 378 pounds

By her early 30s, Julie had severe arthritis in both knees, needed knee replacements, and had developed asthma after COVID. At 378 pounds, she felt exhausted and breathless and knew she needed to act not only for her body, but for her life.

Building a foundation before gastric sleeve surgery

Julie began with JourneyLite’s medical weight-loss program. She learned to make more supportive food choices and used counseling to work through emotional issues connected with food.

As a lifelong yo-yo dieter, Julie knew she could lose weight but had struggled to maintain it. Gastric sleeve surgery in June 2023 became the tool she needed to support the work she had already begun.

Support throughout the process

Julie describes JourneyLite’s support as phenomenal. She says the dietitians, nurse practitioners, and Dr. Curry answered questions, offered guidance, and celebrated each step with her.

She especially valued feeling heard and having a plan shaped around her needs. Since surgery, Julie reports losing 202 pounds and, for the first time, keeping the weight off.

From breathlessness to 5Ks, a 10K, and everyday freedom

Before surgery, Julie could barely walk to the bathroom without losing her breath. She has since completed multiple 5Ks and a 10K, and she walked a 5K every day during one January.

The victories also show up in ordinary moments: fitting into seats without worry, seeing a weight under 200 pounds, and enjoying a Disney trip where her husband took photos to celebrate her progress.

For the first time, Julie says she feels like someone worth celebrating. She credits JourneyLite with helping her change her life and says she will never stop being grateful.

Julie’s journey at a glance

Highest reported weight

378 pounds

Procedure

Gastric sleeve surgery

Surgery date

June 2023

Total lost

202 pounds

Milestones

Multiple 5Ks, a 10K, and a reported weight under 200 pounds

This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Surgical eligibility, recovery, and weight-loss results vary. Please discuss individual treatment options and risks with a qualified healthcare professional.

Tracy’s gastric sleeve success story

At 320 pounds, Tracy felt that her weight was keeping her on the sidelines of the life she wanted. After gastric sleeve surgery at JourneyLite, she lost 190 pounds, maintained her results for more than six years, and rediscovered the confidence and energy to dance wherever she goes.

A vibrant life kept on the sidelines

Tracy says she battled her weight for most of her life. The effects reached beyond her physical health, limiting her confidence and holding back the adventurous person she knew she was.

She loved to dance, sing, and ride festival rides, but fear of judgment—and worry that she might not fit—often kept her quiet and still.

Recognizing a lifelong struggle with food

At her highest weight of 320 pounds, Tracy felt stuck in a body that did not reflect her personality. She also describes struggling with binge eating and a lifelong addiction to food. Finding JourneyLite gave her a path forward.

Gastric sleeve surgery in March 2018

Tracy underwent gastric sleeve surgery in March 2018. She describes the procedure as a tool that helped the pieces come together.

After surgery, smaller healthy portions left her feeling satisfied, and food no longer occupied her thoughts in the same way. Those changes supported the new routines she was building.

More than a procedure: a plan and ongoing support

Tracy credits JourneyLite with providing a plan as well as a procedure. She says education, follow-up care, encouragement, and guidance helped her make decisions and stay connected to her goals.

190 pounds lost—and maintained for more than six years

Tracy lost 190 pounds and reported maintaining that weight loss for more than six years. At the time she shared her update, she said she had more energy than most teenagers she knew.

The change she values most is the confidence and joy she reclaimed. Instead of hiding in the corner, Tracy now dances wherever she goes—and is often the first person on the dance floor.

Tracy’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Surgery date

March 2018

Highest weight

320 lbs

Total weight loss

190 lbs

Long-term result

Maintained for more than six years

This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Individual results vary.

Jenny’s gastric sleeve success story

At 380 pounds, Jenny felt constantly tired and missed out on everyday life. After gastric sleeve surgery in March 2022 and ongoing support from JourneyLite, she reports losing more than 200 pounds and gaining the mobility, health, and confidence to enjoy life with her family.

Feeling stuck at 380 pounds

Before surgery, Jenny says she was constantly tired and unmotivated. Much of her time was spent sitting at home, and her weight kept her from participating fully in daily activities.

She wanted more than a short-term change. She wanted the chance to improve her health and be present for the experiences she had been missing.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery in March 2022

Jenny chose gastric sleeve surgery and began her next chapter in March 2022. She describes that decision as the best one she ever made and says she wishes she had done it years earlier.

More mobility and better health

Jenny reports losing more than 200 pounds after starting at 380 pounds. She can now walk long distances and climb stairs with ease—simple movements that once felt difficult.

She also says her health has improved. The change is not only visible in her before-and-after photos; it shows in what she can do and how she feels each day.

Support and accountability after surgery

Jenny credits JourneyLite’s doctors, dietitians, and staff with supporting her throughout the process. Their guidance gave her practical tools for navigating life after surgery.

Monthly aftercare and check-ins helped her stay accountable. When she needed a reset, that continuing connection helped her refocus and keep moving forward.

A life with fewer limits

Today, Jenny enjoys experiences that once felt out of reach: plane rides, roller coasters, pool days, water parks, and family trips. Greater mobility has opened the door to more spontaneous, active moments.

For Jenny, gastric sleeve surgery was a turning point. Her story is about more than weight loss—it is about having the freedom to take part in life again.

Jenny’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric sleeve surgery

Surgery date

March 2022

Starting weight

380 pounds

Reported loss

More than 200 pounds

This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Surgical eligibility, recovery, and weight-loss results vary. Please discuss individual treatment options and risks with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meagan’s gastric sleeve success story

At 422 pounds, Meagan struggled with back pain, depression, and feeling comfortable in public. Gastric sleeve surgery in October 2023 and support from JourneyLite helped her lose 140 pounds—and feel strong, confident, and like herself again.

When everyday life felt like a struggle

At 422 pounds, Meagan says her back hurt after walking short distances. She had only one or two shirts she felt comfortable wearing in public and often avoided going out.

She felt invisible and battled deep depression. More than anything, she wanted to feel beautiful and recognize herself again.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery in October 2023

Meagan chose gastric sleeve surgery in October 2023. The procedure became a tool that helped her make physical changes while rebuilding her confidence and relationship with everyday life.

Losing 140 pounds and gaining confidence

Meagan reports losing 140 pounds after surgery. She sees changes in her face and the way her clothes fit, but the confidence she gained matters even more to her.

Instead of dreading the world around her, she now embraces it. She feels strong, proud, and increasingly comfortable being seen.

Returning to the experiences she missed

Meagan can now sit comfortably in restaurant seats. She also rode her first roller coaster in 10 years without worrying about whether she would fit.

Her routine now includes 90-minute gym sessions with cardio and weights, helping her celebrate what her body can do.

Encouragement through every plateau

Meagan describes the JourneyLite team as a lifeline. Dr. Curry, the nurse practitioners, and the dietitians encouraged her throughout the process.

When her weight loss plateaued, the team normalized the experience, helped her keep perspective, and celebrated how far she had already come. Meagan’s message to others is simple: you are worth the journey and worth feeling good again.

Meagan’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric sleeve surgery

Surgery date

October 2023

Starting weight

422 pounds

Total lost

140 pounds

Current routine

90-minute cardio and weight-training sessions

This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Surgical eligibility, recovery, mental health, activity, and weight-loss results vary. Please discuss individual treatment options and risks with a qualified healthcare professional.

Heather’s gastric sleeve success story

After a lifetime of feeling left behind because of her weight, Heather wanted greater control over her health and future. Gastric sleeve surgery in November 2023 and support from JourneyLite helped her move from 353 to 211 pounds—and experience everyday freedom in a new way.

Growing up on the sidelines

Heather remembers always being the “bigger one.” While her sister wore the clothes she wanted and enjoyed every amusement-park ride, Heather often watched from the sidelines.

Those experiences left her feeling excluded and alone. At her highest weight of 353 pounds, she knew she wanted something to change.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery in November 2023

Heather chose gastric sleeve surgery in November 2023. She did not view the procedure as a magic fix, but as a tool that could help her take control of her health and build a different future.

From 353 to 211 pounds

Heather reports reaching 211 pounds, a 142-pound loss from her highest weight. She now feels stronger and more capable than she did before surgery.

For Heather, the physical change has also brought a new sense of agency. She sees herself as someone who can actively shape her health rather than simply accept old limitations.

Care that made her feel seen

Heather describes the support from Dr. Curry and the JourneyLite team as phenomenal. From the beginning, she felt seen, supported, and cared for.

She says she could not have chosen a better place or a more compassionate team, and she recommends JourneyLite to others considering a similar path.

The freedom to buy clothes anywhere

One of Heather’s favorite victories is being able to buy clothes anywhere. What may seem like a small convenience represents something much larger to her.

It is a symbol of freedom—the ability to move through everyday life with more choice, confidence, and fewer limits.

Heather’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric sleeve surgery

Surgery date

November 2023

Highest weight

353 pounds

Reported weight

211 pounds

Total lost

142 pounds

This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Surgical eligibility, recovery, and weight-loss results vary. Please discuss individual treatment options and risks with a qualified healthcare professional.

Rebeca’s gastric sleeve success story

At 340 pounds, Rebeca felt exhausted, discouraged, and unable to keep up with her child. Gastric sleeve surgery in May 2024 and ongoing JourneyLite support helped her lose 160 pounds in ten months—and regain the energy and freedom to enjoy life.

Feeling trapped in a cycle of defeat

Rebeca says she struggled with her weight for as long as she can remember. At 340 pounds, she felt overwhelmed, depressed, ashamed, and too exhausted to keep up with her child.

She tried diets and workout plans but repeatedly reached a point where her progress stalled. Each setback left her feeling as though she had returned to where she started.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery in May 2024

On May 22, 2024, Rebeca chose gastric sleeve surgery. The procedure became a tool for managing portions, making healthier food choices, and breaking free from the cycle that had discouraged her.

Losing 160 pounds in ten months

Ten months after surgery, Rebeca reports going from 340 pounds to 180 pounds. She also went down four shirt sizes and five pants sizes.

Beyond the numbers, she gained the energy and freedom to participate in daily life again. She describes surgery as a game-changing tool that supported lasting changes in her habits.

Running, playing, and making memories

The most meaningful change for Rebeca is being able to keep up with her child. They can now run, play, and make memories together.

Those everyday experiences represent the life she wanted when she decided to pursue surgery—and the freedom she says she has gained.

A team available when she needed help

Rebeca describes the JourneyLite team as consistently available and supportive. When she had a question or needed help, she felt that assistance was only a message away.

Her message to people considering treatment is not to be afraid to ask questions or take the next step. She encourages others who feel ready to make a change to reach out for support.

Rebeca’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric sleeve surgery

Surgery date

May 22, 2024

Starting weight

340 pounds

Reported weight

180 pounds at 10 months

Total lost

160 pounds

This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Surgical eligibility, recovery, emotional health, activity, and weight-loss results vary. Please discuss individual treatment options and risks with a qualified healthcare professional.

Christie’s gastric sleeve success story

Christie approached gastric sleeve surgery as a tool—not a quick fix. With JourneyLite’s nutrition support and her own commitment to physical and emotional change, she lost 136 pounds and built an active life centered on family, fitness, and helping others.

A lifetime of labels became a loss of freedom

From childhood into adulthood, Christie carried the emotional weight of being labeled for her size. The experience affected her confidence and reinforced the feeling that she was not enough.

As the physical limitations grew, Christie recognized that her weight was also taking away her freedom. She decided that continuing on the same path was no longer acceptable.

Using gastric sleeve surgery as a guardrail

Christie chose gastric sleeve surgery in October 2023. She did not view it as a fix, but as a tool that could provide structure while she changed her relationship with food, challenged old habits, and rebuilt her life physically, emotionally, and mentally.

Clear nutrition guidance and steady support

Christie says the JourneyLite team supported her throughout the process. Dietitian Emily Curry gave her clear guidance on nutrition, portions, and meal timing, which Christie followed closely.

She also credits Melissa Peters with helping her stay nourished and energized. Christie reported steady progress without the hair loss or fatigue she had feared.

From 286 pounds to an active 150

Christie went from 286 pounds to a reported weight of 150 pounds—a total loss of 136 pounds. Her daily life now includes biking 10 miles, lifting weights, running regularly, and training for a sprint triathlon.

She can run stairs without pain or relying on the handrail. Most importantly, Christie can run, play, and keep up with her grandchild without the limitations that once held her back.

Turning personal change into a way to help others

As a mental health therapist and life coach, Christie brought what she learned into her professional work by adding weight-management coaching to her practice. She says helping other people reclaim their lives has become both a mission and a source of joy.

Christie’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric sleeve (VSG)

Surgery date

October 2023

Starting weight

286 pounds

Reported weight

150 pounds

Total lost

136 pounds

This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Individual results vary.

Alicia’s gastric sleeve success story

After an injury, family challenges, and years in a sedentary trucking career affected her health, Alicia wanted lasting change. Gastric sleeve surgery in July 2024 and support from JourneyLite helped her move from 287 to 140 pounds—and rediscover her mobility and confidence.

When injury and a sedentary career changed her health

Alicia served briefly in the U.S. Air Force before an injury limited her activity. As she raised her children, experienced miscarriages, and later worked as an over-the-road truck driver, maintaining her health became increasingly difficult.

At 287 pounds, joint pain and back problems affected both her mobility and emotional well-being. She tried diet pills, low-carb eating, and keto, but says she could not get below 250 pounds.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery in July 2024

Alicia found JourneyLite in early 2024 and met with Dr. Augusta to discuss her options. She chose gastric sleeve surgery and underwent the procedure on July 25, 2024.

From 287 to 140 pounds

Alicia reports reaching 140 pounds, a 147-pound loss from her highest weight. Her clothing changed from size 22 and 2XL to size 8 and small.

For Alicia, those numbers represent more than a physical transformation. They reflect a renewed sense of confidence and the freedom to participate more fully in everyday life.

Walking more than eight miles without pain

Alicia says she can now walk more than eight miles in a day without pain. She can cross her legs and sit comfortably on the floor—simple movements that once felt out of reach.

These everyday victories have given her a new appreciation for what her body can do and the life she can enjoy.

Support through every up and down

Alicia credits the JourneyLite office and surgical teams, along with the dietitians, for supporting her throughout the process. She felt she had people to turn to through both progress and challenges.

That ongoing guidance helped her build confidence in her choices and stay focused on the healthier future she wanted.

Alicia’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric sleeve surgery

Surgery date

July 25, 2024

Highest weight

287 pounds

Reported weight

140 pounds

Total lost

147 pounds

This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Surgical eligibility, recovery, and weight-loss results vary. Please discuss individual treatment options and risks with a qualified healthcare professional.

Katy’s gastric sleeve success story

At 296 pounds, Katy avoided social events and cameras because she did not feel comfortable in her own skin. After gastric sleeve surgery at JourneyLite, she reached 150 pounds—a 146-pound loss—and found the confidence, strength, and joy to step back into family memories.

Years of hiding from the camera

Katy says she struggled with her weight from childhood. As the years passed, the emotional burden of embarrassment and isolation became as difficult as the physical effects.

She began skipping social events and avoiding photographs. Looking back, Katy felt she was slowly disappearing from memories with her own children.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery

At 296 pounds, Katy decided she was ready for a different path. She chose vertical sleeve gastrectomy, or gastric sleeve surgery, and describes that decision as the turning point in her journey.

From 296 pounds to 150

Following gastric sleeve surgery, Katy reached 150 pounds for a total loss of 146 pounds. She also reported reaching a healthy weight and, for the first time, a BMI in the normal range.

The numbers mattered, but Katy says the deeper transformation was finding confidence, joy, and a version of herself she had not thought possible.

A seamless process and a supportive partnership

Katy says the JourneyLite team made the process seamless. They answered her questions and supported each stage with kindness and professionalism, creating a partnership that extended beyond the procedure itself.

Smiling for the camera again

Today, Katy no longer hides when a camera comes out—she smiles for it. She feels good, strong, and proud of how far she has come.

Her message to others considering treatment is that the change can be about more than weight loss. For Katy, it meant gaining back her life and being present for the moments that matter.

Katy’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric Sleeve Surgery (VSG)

Starting weight

296 lbs

Reported weight

150 lbs

Total weight loss

146 lbs

Milestone

Reported reaching a normal BMI range

This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Individual results vary.

Jamie’s gastric sleeve success story

After PCOS, rapid weight gain, and years of unsuccessful diets and workouts, Jamie felt defeated at 265 pounds. Gastric sleeve surgery in November 2024 and ongoing JourneyLite support helped her lose about 90 pounds, gain energy, and keep up with her young children.

Feeling defeated after years of trying

Jamie was diagnosed with PCOS at age 18 and says she gained weight rapidly. She tried many diet and exercise plans, but none produced the lasting results she needed.

At 265 pounds, she felt uncomfortable in her own skin and increasingly self-conscious. Most difficult was missing out on everyday experiences with her children.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery in November 2024

Jamie chose gastric sleeve surgery in November 2024. She remembers November 18 as the day that changed not only her life, but her family’s life as well.

More energy for family life

Jamie reports moving from 265 pounds to 176 pounds—about a 90-pound loss. She says she now has much more energy and can keep up with her toddlers.

During a family trip to Tennessee for her husband’s birthday, she spent the day running around without becoming winded or overheated. She says that kind of day would have felt impossible a year earlier.

Connected care from 3.5 hours away

Although Jamie lives 3.5 hours away, JourneyLite made virtual appointments easy. She says the team treated her with care and kindness from the moment she arrived for surgery.

She especially values Dr. Curry’s monthly check-ins on her surgery anniversary, along with regular follow-ups from the dietitian or nurse practitioner. That consistency has helped her feel supported at every step.

Getting her life back

For Jamie, the experience was about far more than the procedure itself. She says JourneyLite gave her the support and structure to reclaim daily life with her family.

She would make the same decision again and recommends Dr. Curry and the JourneyLite team, describing care that made her feel like family rather than simply a patient.

Jamie’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric sleeve surgery

Surgery date

November 2024

Starting weight

265 pounds

Reported weight

176 pounds

Reported loss

About 90 pounds

This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Surgical eligibility, recovery, and weight-loss results vary. Please discuss individual treatment options and risks with a qualified healthcare professional.

Jonathon’s gastric sleeve success story

At 575 pounds, Jonathon faced daily physical and emotional challenges that had followed him since childhood. After gastric sleeve surgery in December 2022 and continued JourneyLite support, he reports reaching 245 pounds—a 330-pound change that transformed his health and everyday freedom.

A challenge that began in childhood

Jonathon knew from an early age that his weight affected more than his appearance. It shaped how he felt, how he moved, and how other people responded to him.

At his highest weight of 575 pounds, every day brought physical and emotional challenges. He wanted the chance to take control of his health and create a different future.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery in December 2022

In December 2022, Jonathon took that step and underwent gastric sleeve surgery. The procedure became the beginning of a transformation that affected his mental, spiritual, and physical well-being.

From 575 to 245 pounds

Jonathon reports reaching 245 pounds, a loss of 330 pounds from his highest weight. He says the change has improved his mental, spiritual, and physical health.

The before-and-after numbers are remarkable, but Jonathon’s story is ultimately about the health, comfort, and possibilities he gained along the way.

Learning portion control with ongoing support

Jonathon describes surgery as the beginning rather than the entire solution. One of the most valuable tools he learned was portion control.

He also found strength in JourneyLite’s ongoing encouragement. He says the team checks in regularly and continues to support him as he maintains his new habits.

Everyday comfort as a symbol of freedom

One achievement still fills Jonathon with pride: sitting comfortably in a standard chair without worry. It is an ordinary moment for many people, but for him it represents how far he has come.

Jonathon’s journey reflects resilience, sustained support, and the impact of taking control of his health. He did not simply lose weight—he regained freedom in daily life.

Jonathon’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric sleeve surgery

Surgery date

December 2022

Highest weight

575 pounds

Reported weight

245 pounds

Total lost

330 pounds

This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Surgical eligibility, recovery, and weight-loss results vary. Please discuss individual treatment options and risks with a qualified healthcare professional.

Kayla’s gastric sleeve success story

After years of yo-yo dieting and watching life from the sidelines, Kayla chose gastric sleeve surgery at JourneyLite. She lost 120 pounds, regained her mobility, and returned to the hiking, travel, and outdoor adventures she loves.

Years of dieting kept Kayla on the sidelines

Kayla spent much of her teenage and young adult life in a cycle of losing and regaining weight. At 285 pounds, activities she wanted to enjoy often felt out of reach.

One painful moment came when she could not fit on a roller coaster. Another happened while she encouraged her daughter to run faster during a soccer game and realized that walking comfortably had become difficult for her.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery

In January 2022, Kayla decided to have gastric sleeve surgery at JourneyLite. She viewed the procedure as a tool that could help her regain control of her appetite while building the habits and self-awareness needed for long-term change.

Learning healthier ways to cope

Kayla says surgery changed more than the amount she could eat. It pushed her to examine the emotional reasons behind overeating because food could no longer serve as her automatic response to difficult feelings.

That inner work helped her develop healthier coping strategies and a more intentional relationship with food.

Accountability from the JourneyLite team

Monthly weigh-ins gave Kayla structure and accountability early in her journey. She credits that consistent follow-up with helping her stay focused as she established new routines.

Adventure became enjoyable again

At a reported weight of 165 pounds, Kayla had lost 120 pounds. Walking became easier, but the change reached much further than mobility alone.

She returned to hiking, traveling, and exploring the outdoors—not simply because she could participate, but because those experiences were enjoyable again. Kayla describes a life with more freedom, confidence, and room for adventure.

Kayla’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric sleeve (VSG)

Surgery date

January 2022

Highest weight

285 pounds

Reported weight

165 pounds

Total lost

120 pounds

This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Individual results vary.

Bruce’s gastric sleeve success story

Before gastric sleeve surgery, Bruce took 19 medications each day while managing high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and daily insulin. Surgery in October 2022 and support from JourneyLite helped him regain control of his health and everyday life.

A growing burden on his health

At 270 pounds, Bruce says his health was moving in the wrong direction. He took five medications for high blood pressure, three for diabetes, and daily insulin as part of a 19-medication routine.

After meeting with Dr. Augusta, Bruce understood that his list of prescriptions could continue growing. When insurance would not cover surgery, he chose to use money from his 401(k) to invest in his health.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery in October 2022

Bruce underwent gastric sleeve surgery in October 2022. He describes the decision to self-pay as life-changing and the best investment he has made.

From 19 daily medications to two

Within one month after surgery, Bruce reports that his medication count had fallen from 19 to seven. He now says he takes one medication for a hormonal deficiency and one for blood pressure related to a heart-valve issue.

Bruce says both his cardiologist and primary care doctor are pleased with his progress. His experience reflects his individual medical history, and medication changes should always be directed by a qualified clinician.

The mindset behind lasting change

Bruce emphasizes that surgery alone does not create long-term success. In his view, patients must be ready to put in the work, listen to their care team, and follow the guidance they receive.

He credits the JourneyLite team with genuinely caring about his success and providing the resources he needed to build healthier habits.

Breathing easier through everyday moments

One of Bruce’s favorite victories is also one of the most ordinary: he can see his feet and tie his shoes without becoming short of breath.

For him, that simple moment represents greater independence, comfort, and control over his life.

Bruce’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric sleeve surgery

Surgery date

October 2022

Pre-surgery weight

270 pounds

Medications before

19 daily medications

Medications reported now

Two

This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Surgical eligibility, recovery, medication needs, and weight-loss results vary. Never stop or change prescribed medication without guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.

Rebecca’s gastric sleeve success story

Before surgery, Rebecca felt exhausted, lived with daily knee and back pain, and struggled to keep up with her three children. Gastric sleeve surgery in March 2023 and support from JourneyLite helped her lose 136 pounds—and become the active, present mom she wanted to be.

Exhaustion and pain were limiting her life

At nearly 300 pounds, Rebecca says she was constantly tired. After three knee surgeries, she dealt with daily knee and back pain and found it difficult to keep pace with her children.

Even simple family outings felt overwhelming. She often avoided public places because she felt ashamed and stuck in a body that kept her from fully participating in life.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery in March 2023

Rebecca chose gastric sleeve surgery with JourneyLite in March 2023. Looking back, she says it is a decision she would make again without hesitation.

Losing 136 pounds

Rebecca reports reaching 161.7 pounds and losing 136 pounds after surgery. Her transformation has changed much more than the number on the scale.

She says her knee pain is gone and her energy has increased dramatically, giving her the freedom to move and participate in activities that once felt out of reach.

From keeping up to leading the way

Rebecca now goes to the gym three days a week and says she can jog without pain. She also enjoys biking, kayaking, swimming, and walking with her children.

She no longer struggles to keep up with her family. Instead, she says she leads the charge and embraces the active experiences she once had to avoid.

Support through plateaus and questions

Rebecca says Chelsea, her nurse practitioner, was consistently kind, knowledgeable, and supportive. She never felt that a question was too small to ask.

The JourneyLite dietitians also helped her navigate weight-loss plateaus and stay focused. She credits that ongoing support with making a meaningful difference throughout her journey.

Rebecca’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric sleeve surgery

Surgery date

March 2023

Pre-surgery weight

Nearly 300 pounds

Reported weight

161.7 pounds

Total lost

136 pounds

This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Surgical eligibility, recovery, pain, activity, and weight-loss results vary. Please discuss individual treatment options and risks with a qualified healthcare professional.

Jennifer’s gastric sleeve success story

After years of yo-yo dieting and repeatedly losing the same 50 pounds, Jennifer chose gastric sleeve surgery as a path toward lasting change. With education, practical tools, and JourneyLite’s support, she lost 125 pounds and found greater confidence, health, and freedom.

Seeing the future she wanted to change

Jennifer was in her early 40s when she decided something had to change. She was not yet taking medication for weight-related conditions and did not have mobility problems, but she worried those challenges might only be a matter of time.

That concern helped her look beyond another short-term diet and focus on protecting her future health.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery

After years of yo-yo dieting and losing the same 50 pounds again and again, Jennifer decided to take control. She had gastric sleeve surgery in January 2023 and describes it not as an easy way out, but as a smart way forward.

Tools, education, and a strong support system

Jennifer credits the right tools, education, and JourneyLite’s support system with helping her build a healthier lifestyle. Surgery became one part of a broader change in how she approached her health each day.

That support helped her move away from the cycle of temporary weight loss and toward habits and a mindset she could carry forward.

A new relationship with food

Jennifer says she no longer relies on emotional eating or feels that she is guessing about food. Education and experience gave her a clearer framework for making choices that support her goals.

For her, that change represents food freedom: less uncertainty, greater confidence, and a healthier long-term mindset.

125 pounds lost—and a transformed life

Jennifer reports losing 125 pounds after gastric sleeve surgery. She describes the result in terms that extend well beyond the number on the scale: confidence, health, freedom, and a renewed appreciation for herself.

“This journey didn’t just change my body—it transformed my life,” she says. For the first time in a long time, Jennifer says she loves the skin she is in.

Jennifer’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric sleeve surgery

Surgery date

January 2023

Total lost

125 pounds

Key changes

Food freedom, confidence, health, and a new mindset

This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Surgical eligibility, recovery, and weight-loss results vary. Please discuss individual treatment options and risks with a qualified healthcare professional.

Mindy’s gastric sleeve success story

A family photo helped Mindy recognize how much her weight and diabetes treatment were limiting her life. After gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite, she lost 161 pounds in nine months, reduced her insulin use, and became active with her family again.

A family trip became a wake-up call

Mindy remembers struggling with her weight from childhood, but she did not fully recognize its impact until adulthood. During a family trip in April 2024, she believes she weighed more than 400 pounds.

Seeing the photos afterward brought the situation into focus. Mindy realized her health had moved beyond her control and decided it was time to change direction.

Diabetes treatment and daily life felt overwhelming

At that point, Mindy reported taking five insulin shots a day, a weekly injection, daily diabetes pills, and several other medications. She had little energy or motivation, and everyday tasks felt nearly impossible. She reached out to JourneyLite because she wanted her quality of life back.

A clear path from consultation to surgery

At her first JourneyLite appointment in May 2024, Mindy weighed 398.8 pounds. Working with Dr. James Augusta and the JourneyLite team, she prepared for gastric sleeve surgery.

Mindy underwent surgery on October 24, 2024, at a weight of 337 pounds. By July 21, 2025—nine months after surgery—she had reached 237 pounds for a total loss of 161 pounds.

Compassion, reassurance, and healthier coping

Mindy says the JourneyLite team answered her questions with compassion and met her doubts with reassurance. Their support helped her feel that she was not facing the process alone.

She also stopped using food to cope with stress and emotions. Instead, Mindy focused on healthy eating, regular activity, and caring for her emotional and mental well-being.

More movement, fewer medications, and family time

In her July 2025 update, Mindy reported using only one insulin shot a day when needed, along with her daily vitamins. Her medication changes were managed as part of her ongoing care.

She began hiking, going to the gym, walking around her neighborhood, and shopping for clothes without frustration. Most importantly, she could participate in life again with her husband, child, and the people she loves.

Mindy’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Surgeon

Dr. James Augusta, JourneyLite

Surgery date

October 24, 2024

First appointment

398.8 lbs in May 2024

Surgery-day weight

337 lbs

Reported weight

237 lbs on July 21, 2025

Total weight loss

161 lbs in nine months

This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Medication changes require medical supervision, and individual results vary.

Bobby’s gastric sleeve success story

Bobby’s struggle with weight began in childhood and eventually affected his mobility, energy, confidence, and health. After gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite, he lost 197 pounds and went from struggling to walk half a mile to running an eight-minute mile.

A lifelong struggle that changed with age

Bobby remembers weight being part of his life from childhood. Athletics helped him manage it when he was younger, but his activity level declined as he got older.

Joint pain made movement more difficult, and his weight eventually reached 496 pounds. His energy and stamina faded, and his confidence fell with them.

A health crisis became a turning point

A diagnosis of diabetes and sleep apnea brought the situation into sharp focus. Bobby felt trapped in a body that no longer allowed him to live the way he wanted, and he knew it was time to change direction.

A new tool and a clear plan

In October 2024, Bobby underwent gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite. He describes the procedure as the tool he needed to take on the largest health challenge of his life.

As the weight came off, his mobility and energy began to return. Bobby also worked on the habits and routines that would support his progress over time.

Support, accountability, and healthier habits

Bobby credits the JourneyLite team with providing guidance and accountability throughout the process. He says the staff responded to his questions, helped him follow the postoperative plan, and kept him moving toward healthier habits.

From half a mile to an eight-minute mile

At 299 pounds, Bobby had lost 197 pounds. The transformation was not only physical—he also felt mentally stronger and more confident.

He went from struggling to walk half a mile to running an eight-minute mile. He also fit comfortably on a roller coaster, reclaiming an experience he once thought might be out of reach forever.

Bobby’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Surgeon

Dr. James Augusta, JourneyLite

Surgery date

October 2024

Highest weight

496 lbs

Reported weight

299 lbs

Total weight loss

197 lbs

Bobby gave JourneyLite permission to share his story and images. This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Individual results vary.

Kandace’s gastric sleeve success story

Before surgery, Kandace felt that her weight intensified the pain and limitations she experienced with fibromyalgia. After gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite, she lost 96 pounds, reported a major improvement in pain, and returned to skating, swimming, dancing, and active time with her family.

When weight amplified an existing struggle

At 230 pounds, Kandace says daily life had become difficult both physically and emotionally. Living with fibromyalgia already meant managing pain, and she felt the added weight made that pain more intense.

She became short of breath after walking brief distances. Even bending down to pick something up from the floor could feel overwhelming.

Watching family adventures slip away

The hardest part was missing activities she loved. When Kandace tried roller skating with her husband and daughter, a couple of laps could leave her sitting on the bench, breathless and aching. The family experiences she wanted began to feel increasingly out of reach.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery

In June 2024, Kandace underwent gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite. She describes the procedure as the best decision of her life.

Kandace lost 96 pounds after surgery. Just as important to her, she says she regained the ability to move through daily life and participate in the experiences that matter most.

A tool, a team, and daily work

Kandace says the JourneyLite team answered her questions, guided her through each stage, and helped her understand an important principle: surgery is a tool, while the ongoing work belongs to the patient.

She is grateful to Dr. Augusta for his care before, during, and after surgery and credits the broader JourneyLite team with helping her feel supported throughout the process.

Back on skates and building a fuller life

Kandace now jogs, swims, dances, and roller skates again. She has even started taking line dancing lessons with her husband.

She reports that her pain has improved by about 75–80%. For Kandace, being able to move, join her family, and feel strong and active again represents the most meaningful part of her transformation.

Kandace’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Surgeon

Dr. James Augusta, JourneyLite

Surgery date

June 2024

Starting weight

230 lbs

Total weight loss

96 lbs

Reported pain improvement

Approximately 75–80%

Kandace gave JourneyLite permission to share her story and images. This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Individual results vary.

Ben’s gastric sleeve success story

Ben spent much of adulthood feeling the physical, social, and emotional effects of his weight. After gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. Trace Curry at JourneyLite, he lost 218 pounds and gained the comfort and confidence to participate more fully in everyday life.

When everyday tasks carried extra weight

Ben first recognized his weight as a problem in young adulthood. Over time, routine activities became physically harder, while social situations often affected his confidence.

He also worried increasingly about his long-term health. The combination of physical strain and constant concern was emotionally exhausting and left him wanting a more sustainable path forward.

A life-changing step toward better health

Choosing surgery was not easy, but Ben decided he needed a new tool after years of struggling on his own. He underwent gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. Trace Curry at JourneyLite in November 2020.

Building habits that feel sustainable

Ben says the sleeve reduced his hunger and created room to build healthier routines that felt realistic for the long term. Instead of continuing the same cycle, he began to feel more in control of his choices and health.

As his weight decreased from 472 pounds to 254 pounds, his energy and confidence grew. He describes the surgery as a fresh start rather than an effortless solution.

Guidance and accountability through the first year

The JourneyLite team played a major role as Ben adjusted after surgery. Nutrition guidance, check-ins, encouragement, and answers to his questions helped him stay focused while new habits became part of daily life.

That consistent accountability made him feel supported rather than alone, especially during the important first year of change.

Comfort, stamina, and confidence in daily life

Simple tasks now feel different. Ben can tie his shoes and climb stairs without feeling overwhelmed, and he can walk long distances without becoming exhausted or short of breath.

He also participates in social activities with greater confidence instead of worrying about how his weight might limit him. That freedom to move through the day comfortably is one of his most meaningful victories.

Ben’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric Sleeve Surgery (VSG)

Surgeon

Dr. Trace Curry, JourneyLite

Surgery date

November 2020

Highest weight

472 lbs

Current weight

254 lbs

Total weight loss

218 lbs

Ben gave JourneyLite permission to share his story and images. This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Individual results vary.

Chrissy’s gastric sleeve success story

Chrissy’s struggle with weight began in middle school and followed her into adulthood. After gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. Trace Curry at JourneyLite, she lost 115 pounds and says the most meaningful change is one no scale can measure: she learned to love and respect herself.

A struggle that started in middle school

Chrissy first became aware of her weight as a teenager. Being picked on by her peers affected how she saw herself, and that pain continued into adulthood.

She tried to change her weight, but nothing produced the lasting results she needed. More than the number on the scale, she wanted to leave behind the self-criticism that had shaped so much of her life.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery

In February 2024, Chrissy underwent gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. Trace Curry at JourneyLite Surgery Center. She calls it the best decision she has ever made and says she would make the same choice again because of how completely it changed her life.

A healthier relationship with food—and herself

As her weight decreased from 245 pounds to 130 pounds, Chrissy developed a relationship with food that felt healthier and more balanced than what she had experienced before surgery.

She also gained a new level of respect for herself. For Chrissy, that internal change is as important as the 115 pounds she lost.

Guidance before and after surgery

Chrissy describes the JourneyLite team as amazing. Their answers and guidance helped her navigate both the preoperative process and life after surgery, giving her support as she adjusted to new habits and continued working toward her goals.

A change that reaches every part of life

Chrissy says surgery changed her life as an individual, wife, and mother. Her greatest victory is being able to approach those roles with more confidence, self-respect, and genuine love for the person she has become.

Chrissy’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric Sleeve Surgery (VSG)

Surgeon

Dr. Trace Curry, JourneyLite

Surgery date

February 2024

Highest weight

245 lbs

Current weight

130 lbs

Total weight loss

115 lbs

Chrissy gave JourneyLite permission to share her story and images. This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Individual results vary.

Tina’s gastric sleeve success story

At age 52, Tina chose gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite after years of physical discomfort and withdrawing from everyday life. She has lost 88 pounds and says she can now walk farther, shop for clothes she enjoys, cross her legs, and start each day with far less pain.

When pain and isolation took over

Tina first noticed her weight becoming a problem as a young adult. Over time, she began waking up with aches and pains and could not walk very far without stopping to rest.

The effects were emotional and mental as well as physical. Going out in public became something she increasingly wanted to avoid, and her discomfort made it harder to participate confidently in everyday life.

Choosing herself at age 52

After trying diet after diet without lasting success, Tina decided that she was ready for a different tool. She underwent gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite in February 2025.

Learning portions and everyday food choices

Tina says JourneyLite helped her understand portion control and make more intentional food choices. Rather than treating surgery as a finish line, she learned practical habits she could use while adapting to a smaller stomach and a new routine.

Those lessons gave her a clearer framework after years of diets that did not produce the durable change she wanted.

Kindness from pre-op through post-op

Tina describes her experience from preoperative preparation through postoperative care as exceptional. She felt treated with kindness and respect by the office staff, nurses, nutrition team, surgeons, and surgery-center staff.

She also values knowing the team remains available for questions, whether the concern feels large or small. That continuing access has helped her feel supported as her routines and body have changed.

Comfort, confidence, and a little humor

Tina’s weight decreased from 250 pounds to 162 pounds. She now wakes with minimal pain, can take longer walks, and can cross her legs comfortably.

Shopping has changed, too. Instead of hiding behind baggy shirts, she can choose clothes that feel current and expressive. Even her humorous makeup routine reflects the change: items no longer balance on her lap, but bending down to retrieve them is now much easier.

Tina’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric Sleeve Surgery (VSG)

Surgeon

Dr. James Augusta, JourneyLite

Surgery date

February 2025

Highest weight

250 lbs

Current weight

162 lbs

Total weight loss

88 lbs

Tina gave JourneyLite permission to share her story and images. This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Individual results vary.

Kelly’s gastric sleeve success story

After years of planning everyday life around her weight, Kelly chose gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite. She has lost 232 pounds and says the transformation has given her the freedom to be more active, spontaneous, and fully present with her son.

A life shaped by quiet calculations

Kelly remembers being the heaviest person at home, at school, and even on her sports teams. As she grew older, her weight became the lens through which she experienced the world and made ordinary situations feel uncertain.

At 370 pounds, she found herself checking restaurant seating, thinking about chairs with arms, and worrying about how far she would need to walk. Theme parks and concerts felt less like carefree outings and more like situations that required advance planning.

Wanting to join her son’s life

The most difficult limitation was feeling as though she was watching her son’s childhood from the sidelines. Getting down on the floor, running, chasing, and playing felt out of reach. Kelly did not simply want to lose weight—she wanted to participate fully in the moments that mattered most.

Choosing JourneyLite and gastric sleeve surgery

Kelly underwent gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite in November 2022. She describes the procedure as the beginning of her transformation—a tool that provided structure while she built new habits.

Smaller portions led her to prioritize protein, vegetables, and other nourishing foods. She learned to recognize satisfaction, slow down while eating, separate drinking from meals, stay hydrated, move regularly, and treat vitamins and supplements as part of caring for herself.

Aftercare that made the process manageable

Kelly credits JourneyLite’s aftercare with helping her turn surgical changes into lasting routines. The team guided her through each diet phase, answered questions, and offered encouragement without making her feel like a burden.

That continuing support helped hard days feel manageable. Kelly says she felt seen as a whole person—a mother and a woman who wanted a full, active life—not simply as a number on a chart.

A world that feels wide open

Kelly’s weight decreased from 370 pounds to 138 pounds. She can now sit down at restaurants without worrying about the chair, shop off the rack, enjoy hikes and family outings, and say yes to last-minute plans without wondering whether her body can keep up.

Theme parks have changed from a source of anxiety into pure fun. Most importantly, Kelly can kneel to tie her son’s shoes, chase him around the yard, play on the playground, and plan active adventures. She describes the greatest change as freedom from the shame, fear, and constant calculations that once narrowed her life.

Kelly’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric Sleeve Surgery (VSG)

Surgeon

Dr. James Augusta, JourneyLite

Surgery date

November 2022

Starting weight

370 lbs

Current weight

138 lbs

Total weight loss

232 lbs

Kelly gave JourneyLite permission to share her story and images. This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Individual results vary.

Michael’s gastric sleeve success story

At age 60, Michael chose gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite after new health concerns changed the way he viewed his weight. He has lost approximately 106 pounds, gained confidence, and reports major improvements in his health and everyday stamina.

A lifetime of feeling like the heavier guy

Michael had been short and stocky for as long as he could remember. Although childhood comments could be painful, he generally brushed off other people’s opinions as an adult. He lifted weights, kept up with his family, and did not feel that his size defined what he could do.

Years earlier, supervisors told him that he needed to lose weight because of how he looked in a training role. The experience stayed with him, but it was not until later health concerns emerged that he decided a major change was necessary.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery at 60

By age 60, Michael was managing high blood pressure and prediabetes and had been diagnosed with fatty liver disease. After researching his options, he kept returning to gastric sleeve surgery. He chose to approach treatment fully committed—listening to the experts, changing his eating habits, and learning which routines would support his health long term.

Structure, education, and accountability

Michael underwent gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta in May 2025. He continued lifting weights, and the smaller stomach—combined with education and accountability—gave him the structure he needed to build healthier habits.

He describes Dr. Augusta as outstanding and credits JourneyLite’s dietitians with helping him understand what was working, troubleshoot challenges, and stay accountable through group education, individual check-ins, and regular weigh-ins.

Health improvements beyond the scale

Michael’s weight decreased from 299 pounds to 192.6 pounds. He says that everyday activities now feel easier and faster, with greater stamina and less concern about overexertion.

Michael also reports that he no longer needs medication for high blood pressure or prediabetes, that his fatty liver disease has reversed, and that he is wearing clothing sizes he had not seen in 40 years. For him, the most important transformation was learning to listen, follow a plan, and change the thinking that shaped his previous habits.

Michael’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric Sleeve Surgery (VSG)

Surgeon

Dr. James Augusta, JourneyLite

Surgery date

May 2025

Starting weight

299 lbs

Current weight

192.6 lbs

Total weight loss

Approximately 106 lbs

Michael gave JourneyLite permission to share his story and images. This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Individual results vary. Medication changes and medical outcomes require evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional.

Heather’s gastric sleeve success story

After living in a larger body for as long as she could remember, Heather chose gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite. She has lost 74 pounds, gained energy and confidence, and can now share experiences with her son without her weight holding them back.

A lifelong struggle with weight

Heather remembers running more slowly than other children, shopping in different clothing sections, and realizing at only eight years old that she could fit into her mother’s clothes. Those moments made weight feel like part of her identity.

She once promised herself that she would make a change by age 30. Ultimately, her decision was not rooted in disliking herself—it came from wanting her body and the life she envisioned to feel aligned.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery

In September 2024, Heather underwent gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite. Surgery became the tool that accelerated progress she had worked toward for years.

More energy and a sustainable routine

Since surgery, Heather’s cravings have become quieter and her daily routine more consistent. She feels lighter physically and emotionally while building habits she believes she can maintain long term.

Calls, texts, and virtual check-ins with JourneyLite’s nutrition team helped her feel seen and supported. Quick answers and guidance through each stage kept her confident, focused, and connected to her goals.

Making new memories with her son

Years earlier, Heather and her son had to leave a roller coaster at Kings Island when the safety bar would not close. The experience was devastating because she felt that her weight had limited a special moment for both of them.

Today, that is no longer her reality. She can fit comfortably, enjoy the rides, and create the memories she wanted to share with him. Beyond losing 74 pounds, she is proud of the path she is building for herself and her family.

Heather’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric Sleeve Surgery (VSG)

Surgeon

Dr. James Augusta, JourneyLite

Surgery date

September 2024

Highest weight

289 lbs

Current weight

215 lbs

Total weight loss

74 lbs

Heather gave JourneyLite permission to share her story and images. This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Individual results vary.

Alisa’s gastric sleeve success story

After years of feeling held back by her weight, Alisa chose gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite. She has since lost 102 pounds, moves without pain, and finally feels free to live life on her own terms.

When weight began shaping everyday life

Alisa had struggled with her weight for as long as she could remember. As a teenager, she often felt isolated, and although she later built a beautiful life with her husband and two sons, her weight continued to climb.

She stopped allowing people to take her picture and felt stressed, sad, and uncomfortable in her body. A painful moment at Cedar Point—when she could not fit on a favorite ride—made her realize that she needed help.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery

Healthy eating alone had not produced lasting results, exercise was painful, and insulin resistance made progress even harder. On July 18, 2024, Alisa underwent gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite.

Building a healthier relationship with food

The sleeve helped Alisa slow down and become intentional about every bite. She discovered that the hardest part was not the diet itself, but quieting the mental noise around food.

By doing that mental work, she made permanent changes and learned to choose foods that support her health. She now feels strong, capable, and able to move without pain.

102 pounds lost—and freedom gained

Alisa has gone from 252 pounds to 150 pounds. Beyond the number on the scale, she can cross her legs comfortably, pull her knees to her chest, sit however she wants, and run.

Regular weigh-ins, supplement guidance, and encouragement from Melissa and Pam helped her stay accountable. She valued that the JourneyLite team was consistently supportive, never judgmental, and genuinely invested in her success.

Alisa’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric Sleeve Surgery (VSG)

Surgeon

Dr. James Augusta, JourneyLite

Surgery date

July 18, 2024

Starting weight

252 lbs

Current weight

150 lbs

Total weight loss

102 lbs

Alisa gave JourneyLite permission to share her story and images. This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Individual results vary.

Robin’s gastric sleeve success story

After years of feeling limited by her weight, Robin chose gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. Trace Curry at JourneyLite. Since then, she has lost 130 pounds, improved her breathing and mobility, and rediscovered the confidence to participate in everyday life.

When weight began taking over everyday life

After having children, Robin’s weight climbed until it reached 421 pounds. Over time, shame and depression led her to withdraw from the life she wanted to live, while emotional eating made her feel increasingly stuck.

Even ordinary situations became stressful. Going to a restaurant meant worrying about whether she would fit comfortably in a booth, and routine tasks such as climbing stairs or washing dishes required frequent breaks.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery

Robin tried GLP-1 medications for years and experienced some progress, but she still felt that she needed a stronger long-term tool. In December 2024, she underwent gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. Trace Curry at JourneyLite.

130 pounds lost—and freedom regained

Robin has gone from 421 pounds to 291 pounds, a total loss of 130 pounds. More importantly, she can now climb stairs, finish household tasks without stopping for repeated breaks, and breathe more comfortably.

She also feels more comfortable going out in public. The fear and planning that once accompanied restaurant seating no longer control the experience, giving her back a sense of peace and independence.

Meeting challenges with honesty

Robin is candid that recovery has included challenges. Acid reflux has remained an issue, even about a year after surgery, but she has learned to manage it more effectively. She also believes the experience has reinforced the importance of avoiding old eating habits and staying focused on her goals.

Support that continues beyond surgery

Throughout her journey, Robin has appreciated the support and information provided by Dr. Curry and the JourneyLite team. Their attention to appointments, medications, and follow-up care helped her feel that she was never navigating the process alone.

Robin’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric Sleeve Surgery (VSG)

Surgeon

Dr. Trace Curry, JourneyLite

Surgery date

December 2024

Highest weight

421 lbs

Current weight

291 lbs

Total weight loss

130 lbs

Robin gave JourneyLite permission to share her story and images. This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Individual results vary.

Justice’s gastric sleeve success story

For this reason, after struggling with her weight since her teenage years, Justice chose gastric sleeve surgery as a tool for lasting change. Consequently, with support from JourneyLite, she lost 110 pounds, improved her confidence and mobility, and learned habits that support a healthier life.

Recognizing how weight affected everyday life

Justice first noticed weight becoming a concern during her teenage years. In addition, she came to understand how deeply it was affecting both her physical and mental health. As a result, at her highest adult weight of 297 pounds, she wanted a path that could help her feel healthier, more capable, and more comfortable in her body.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery

Therefore, after trying GLP-1 medications, Justice decided that gastric sleeve surgery offered the kind of long-term tool she was looking for. Ultimately, she underwent surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite in April 2025.

110 pounds lost—and much more gained

Today, Justice has gone from 297 pounds to 187 pounds, a total loss of 110 pounds. In addition, she reports meaningful improvements in her energy, mobility, self-esteem, and confidence, along with improvements in diabetes and PCOS symptoms.

In fact, one of her favorite victories is the freedom to stay active throughout the day without becoming short of breath or exhausted by routine tasks. Because of that everyday stamina, she can participate more fully in life.

Building a healthier relationship with food

However, for Justice, surgery was not only about eating less. Instead, it helped her learn portion control, make more nourishing choices, fuel her body intentionally, and find realistic ways to move. More importantly, those sustainable habits became the foundation of her success.

Support through every stage

Throughout the process, Justice credits JourneyLite’s guidance, education, and encouragement with helping her feel informed and prepared throughout surgery and recovery. Furthermore, having a knowledgeable, compassionate team available helped her navigate the emotional side of change and stay accountable to her goals.

Justice’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric Sleeve Surgery (VSG)

Surgeon

Dr. James Augusta, JourneyLite

Surgery date

April 2025

Highest weight

297 lbs

Current weight

187 lbs

Total weight loss

110 lbs

Justice gave JourneyLite permission to share her story and images. This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Individual results vary.

Barrett’s gastric sleeve success story

After his weight began seriously affecting his energy, mobility, and overall health, Barrett decided it was time for a lasting change. With gastric sleeve surgery and continued support from JourneyLite, he lost 127 pounds and gained the freedom to live a more active, comfortable life.

When weight began limiting everyday life

Barrett began noticing that his weight had become a serious concern after age 30. At his highest adult weight of 382 pounds, he struggled with low energy, limited mobility, knee pain, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Even simple daily tasks—putting on socks, bending down to tie his shoes, and moving without discomfort—had become harder than they should have been.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery

In August 2024, Barrett chose gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite Surgery Center. The procedure gave him a powerful tool to eat less and lose weight, while JourneyLite’s education and follow-up care helped him learn how to use that tool successfully.

127 pounds lost—and meaningful health changes

Barrett has gone from 382 pounds to 255 pounds, a total loss of 127 pounds. He says he is now much more active, his knee pain is gone, and daily movement feels easier and more enjoyable.

He also reports that he no longer takes blood pressure or diabetes medications. Those changes have helped him feel more in control of his health and have made everyday victories—like putting on socks and tying his shoes—feel simple again.

Support that understood real life

Barrett credits the JourneyLite team with helping him turn surgery into sustainable change. From the surgical team to ongoing education and follow-up support, he felt understood throughout the process. That combination of medical care, practical guidance, and encouragement made a meaningful difference in his success.

Barrett’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric Sleeve Surgery (VSG)

Surgeon

Dr. James Augusta, JourneyLite

Surgery date

August 2024

Highest weight

382 lbs

Current weight

255 lbs

Total weight loss

127 lbs

Barrett gave JourneyLite permission to share his story and images. This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Individual results vary.

Pam’s gastric sleeve success story

Pam had struggled with her weight since her teenage years. At her highest adult weight of 230 pounds, everyday activities left her exhausted, her confidence had suffered, and she felt as though much of her life was spent in recovery mode. She wanted a lasting tool that could help her regain control of her health and begin living without limits.

Choosing a more durable weight loss tool

Before surgery, Pam tried a GLP-1 medication. Although it reduced her hunger, she experienced significant side effects and did not feel it offered the sustainable solution she needed. She was looking for more than appetite control—she wanted practical tools that could support lasting changes in her relationship with food, movement, and health.

In August 2025, Pam chose gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite.

From recovery mode to living without limits

Since surgery, Pam has lost 92 pounds, moving from 230 pounds to 138 pounds. The stairs that once left her breathless are no longer a challenge—she can now run up them. She works out without feeling winded, looks for opportunities to move, and says she has rediscovered both herself and her personal style.

Confidence, freedom, and renewed control

Before surgery, Pam often felt insecure in her clothes and tried to hide behind larger outfits. Today, she feels proud of her body and confident wearing styles she once avoided. Her transformation is about more than weight loss: it is the freedom to move, dress, and participate in everyday life without planning around exhaustion, breathlessness, or insecurity.

Support that made success feel attainable

Pam credits the JourneyLite team with giving her the practical and emotional tools she needed after gastric sleeve surgery. Instead of extreme diets or unrealistic restrictions, she learned how to fuel her body, maintain energy, and work toward her goals with a manageable plan.

Pam’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric Sleeve Surgery (VSG)

Surgeon

Dr. James Augusta, JourneyLite

Surgery date

August 2025

Highest weight

230 lbs

Current weight

138 lbs

Total weight loss

92 lbs

Individual results vary.

Melody’s gastric sleeve story

I first noticed that my weight was a problem when I was just a teenager. Over the years, carrying the extra weight took a serious toll on my image, my confidence, my health, and my overall life satisfaction. At my highest adult weight, I reached 257 lbs. I tried to manage it medically; in fact, I took GLP-1 medications for at least 10 years prior due to diabetes, but I did not experience any weight loss. I knew I needed to take a different path.

My turning point

In October of 2025, I made the decision to get a gastric sleeve with Dr. Trace Curry. Choosing JourneyLite was one of the best decisions I’ve made. It is an all-around great program with great evidence-based practice led by and carried out by a great team. The support I have received from them has been outstanding, and it really helps to get and keep me on track.

Life after surgery

Today, my current weight is 155 lbs! I was always an active person, but the surgery gave me the power behind the effort and allowed me to reflect it physically. The non-scale victories have been life-changing for me. Because of my weight loss, I can now not only walk without excessive pain but I can jump and run, and I take fewer medications!

Melody’s journey at a glance

Procedure

Gastric Sleeve (VSG)

Surgeon

Dr. Trace Curry, JourneyLite

Highest weight

257 lbs

Current weight

155 lbs

Total weight loss

102 lbs

Individual results vary.