JourneyLite Featured Patient of the Month-July 2023: Teresa T.

Rebeca

“I lost 160 pounds—and gained my life back.”
– Rebeca, Gastric Sleeve Patient, May 2024

I’ve struggled with my weight for as long as I can remember. At 340 pounds, I felt overwhelmed, depressed, ashamed, and too exhausted to keep up with my child. I tried every diet and workout plan, but nothing stuck—I’d always hit a wall and end up right back where I started.

On May 22, 2024, I made the decision to take control of my life with gastric sleeve surgery. Ten months later, I’m down 160 pounds, four shirt sizes, and five pants sizes. I now weigh 180 pounds—and I finally have the energy and freedom to live again.

This surgery has been a game-changer. It’s helped me manage portions, make healthier food choices, and break free from the cycle of defeat. The team at JourneyLite has been incredible—always available, always supportive. If you have a question or need help, they’re just a message away.

The best part? I can keep up with my child. We run, play, and make memories—together.

To anyone on the fence: don’t be afraid. Take the leap. You won’t regret it.

Christie

“I have my life back—better than ever.”
– Christie, Gastric Sleeve Patient, October 2023

Chubby. Thick. Fat. “Pretty face.” Obese. These words followed me from childhood into adulthood, each one whispering the same message: You are not enough. The weight wasn’t just physical—it carried a lifetime of shame, limitations, and emotional struggle. As I got older, those extra pounds began to steal my freedom, and that was no longer acceptable.

When I chose gastric sleeve surgery, I didn’t see it as a fix—I saw it as a tool. I knew I needed to change my relationship with food, challenge the habits and emotions that drove me, and believe that I was enough no matter the number on the scale. The sleeve was my guardrail as I rebuilt my life—physically, emotionally, and mentally.

The JourneyLite team supported me every step of the way. Emily Curry, my dietitian, gave me crystal-clear guidance on nutrition, portions, and timing, which I followed to a T. Melissa Peters ensured I stayed nourished and energized—no hair loss, no fatigue—just steady, healthy progress.

The result? I’m down from 286 pounds to 150. I bike 10 miles a day, lift weights, and run regularly. I’m training for a sprint triathlon. I run stairs without pain, without the handrail. But most importantly, I’m living the WHY that drove it all: to run, play, and thrive alongside my grandchild—with no limitations.

As a mental health therapist and life coach, I’ve now integrated weight management coaching into my practice. I don’t just teach it—I live it. Helping others reclaim their lives has become my mission and my joy.

Ready to take back your life too? Visit www.christiecoaching.com.

aching.com

Katy

“For the first time, I’m comfortable in my own skin.”

At 296 pounds, I spent years hiding—skipping social events, avoiding cameras, and slowly fading from memories with my own children. I’ve struggled with my weight since childhood, and the emotional weight of embarrassment and isolation was just as heavy as the physical burden.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery was the turning point. With VSG, I’ve reached a healthy weight—and for the first time ever, I’m in a normal BMI range. But more importantly, I’ve found confidence, joy, and a version of myself I didn’t think was possible.

JourneyLite made the entire process seamless. They answered every question and supported me through every stage with kindness and professionalism. It truly felt like a partnership—not just a procedure.

Today, I’m 150 pounds, and I no longer hide from the camera—I smile for it. I feel good, strong, and proud of how far I’ve come. If you’re considering taking this step, know that it’s more than just weight loss—it’s gaining back your life.

Heather

“I’m relearning to love myself—and that has changed everything.”
– Heather, Gastric Sleeve Patient, May 2024

At 263 pounds, everyday tasks felt like obstacles. Walking into a room came with the weight of judgment. Shopping for clothes was a struggle. Even bending down or climbing stairs took effort. But the hardest part? I didn’t recognize the person I saw in the mirror—I had lost confidence, and with it, a part of myself.

After trying every diet, pill, and injection without lasting success, I made the decision to reclaim my life. The gastric sleeve wasn’t a quick fix—it was a tool. And just like any tool, success came from learning how to use it properly. This wasn’t an easy journey, but it was the right one.

The team at JourneyLite has been incredible. From the first appointment, they listened, guided, and supported me with genuine care. Access to a dietitian has been invaluable, helping me make informed choices and stay accountable every step of the way.

Today, I’m 110 pounds lighter, and for the first time, I feel confident. I can cross my legs, keep up with life, and most importantly—I’m building a stronger marriage and deeper friendships because I’ve learned to love myself.

If you’re on the fence about surgery, let me just say this: do it. It’s not easy, but it’s absolutely worth it. You deserve to live life as the best, healthiest version of yourself.

healthier version of you.

“November 18th changed my life—and my family’s.”

Before my gastric sleeve surgery in November 2024, I felt completely defeated. At just 18, I was diagnosed with PCOS and gained weight rapidly. Despite trying countless diets and workout plans, nothing worked. At 265 pounds, I was miserable in my own skin, constantly self-conscious, and missing out on the joys of life—especially time with my kids.

Since surgery, everything has changed. I’m now 176 pounds, full of energy, and finally able to keep up with my toddlers. Just last weekend, we celebrated my husband’s birthday in Tennessee, and I ran around with my family all day without getting winded or overheated. That would’ve been impossible just a year ago.

The support from Dr. Curry and the JourneyLite team has been nothing short of amazing. Despite living 3.5 hours away, they made virtual appointments seamless. From the moment I walked in for surgery, I was treated with care and kindness. Dr. Curry personally checks in with me every month on my surgery anniversary—something no other doctor has ever done. Between those check-ins and regular follow-ups with the dietitian or nurse practitioner, I’ve felt supported every step of the way.

JourneyLite didn’t just perform a surgery—they gave me my life back. I would do it all over again in a heartbeat, and I 100% recommend Dr. Curry and his incredible team. They don’t just treat you like a patient—they treat you like family.

From 575 to 245: Jonathon’s Life-Changing Journey

As far back as childhood, Jonathon knew that his weight was a problem. It wasn’t just about how he looked—it was how he felt, how he moved, and how the world responded to him. At his highest, Jonathon weighed 575 pounds. Every day was a challenge, both physically and emotionally. But in December 2022, he took a courageous step: he underwent gastric sleeve surgery.

Since that life-changing moment, Jonathon has lost an astonishing 330 pounds, bringing him down to 245 pounds. But the transformation goes far beyond numbers on a scale.

“This has completely changed my life,” Jonathon shares. “My mental, spiritual, and physical health have all improved for the better.”

The surgery was just the beginning. Through it, Jonathon learned one of the most powerful tools in weight management—portion control. He also found a source of strength and encouragement in the JourneyLite team. “They’ve been amazing,” he says. “They check in all the time and are always encouraging.”

The results speak for themselves, not just in weight loss, but in freedom. One seemingly simple moment still fills Jonathon with pride: sitting in a normal chair—comfortably, without worry. It’s something many take for granted, but for Jonathon, it’s a symbol of how far he’s come.

His journey is a testament to resilience, support, and the power of taking control of your health. Jonathon didn’t just lose weight—he gained back his life.

#journeylite #gastricsleevebeforeandafter #vsgbeforeandafter

Kristin’s Journey: From Surviving to Thriving

For as long as she can remember, Kristin struggled with her weight. Even in childhood, it cast a shadow over her life, and as the years went on, that shadow grew heavier. At her highest adult weight of 355 pounds, daily life became a series of limitations—she couldn’t stand for more than a few minutes without pain in her legs and back, walking left her winded, and simple tasks like shopping or showering felt like insurmountable challenges.

Despite trying for years—countless diets, exercise plans, and efforts—nothing brought lasting change. Her health continued to decline, and along with it, her quality of life. But deep down, Kristin still held on to hope. What she feared most wasn’t surgery—it was failure. “I should have done it sooner,” she reflects now. “But I was so scared I would fail. I look back and realize I was already failing. Now, I’m succeeding.”

In June 2023, Kristin made a life-altering decision: she underwent gastric bypass surgery through JourneyLite with Dr. James Augusta in Cincinnati, Ohio. That decision marked the beginning of a transformation that went far beyond the physical.

Today, just a year later, Kristin weighs 145 pounds—a loss of 210 pounds that has completely changed her life. She’s no longer sitting on the sidelines. She can shop without gasping for air. She keeps up with her grandchildren. She even does something she once only dreamed of—ties her own shoes.

The changes go beyond what the scale shows. Kristin’s newfound energy, mobility, and confidence have brought her back to life. “I truly feel like a different person,” she says. “Changing my eating habits and putting my mind in a great place has changed everything.”

A big part of that success, she says, is thanks to the unwavering support of the JourneyLite team. “Even two years later, the staff has been amazing,” Kristin says. “Any time I have a question or concern, I get a quick answer. They truly listen, and they work with you to find the right path forward.”

Kristin’s journey is one of courage, perseverance, and rediscovery. She is no longer defined by her limitations but by her strength—and by a life she once only hoped was possible. “You gave me a chance at life again,” she says with gratitude. And she’s living that life to the fullest.

Jeremiah’s Journey: From 376 to 218 Pounds

Before turning 30, I never really saw my weight as a problem. There were tough days when I wasn’t proud of my reflection, but I never seriously tried to make a change. I went back and forth with different weight loss medications over the years, but nothing really worked. Then, a health scare shook me to my core—it was the wake-up call I desperately needed.

In December 2023, I made the decision to have gastric sleeve surgery through JourneyLite. Looking back, it’s clear: this surgery saved my life. My only regret is that I didn’t do it sooner. Today, I weigh 218 pounds—down from my highest weight of 376. The transformation is incredible.

The JourneyLite team supported me every step of the way. From the front desk to the surgeons, and everyone in between, they were professional, compassionate, and genuinely caring. Their support made all the difference in my journey.

Now, life feels limitless. My confidence is higher than ever. I can walk five miles or hike three miles and still feel energized, something I couldn’t even dream of before. Most of my knee and back pain is gone, and I finally feel like myself again—the best I’ve felt since graduating high school over twenty years ago! After reaching a low of 201 pounds post-surgery, I’ve started to work out to build both bulk and lean muscle. The opportunities ahead are endless.

If you’re considering this journey, don’t wait. Take control of your life—you won’t regret it.

I’m Kayla, and in January 2022, I made the life-changing decision to have gastric sleeve surgery. At my heaviest, I weighed 285 pounds. Today, I weigh 165—and the difference is more than just the number on the scale.

I spent most of my teenage and young adult life caught in a cycle of yo-yo dieting. I was always watching from the sidelines, missing out on the things I loved. One of the lowest points for me was when I couldn’t fit on a rollercoaster—it was humiliating. Another moment that hit hard was when I was cheering for my daughter at a soccer game, yelling “faster, faster!” and suddenly realizing I could barely walk comfortably myself. I felt like a hypocrite.

I’ve always loved adventure—hiking, traveling, exploring the outdoors—but my weight held me back. Since losing the weight, all of those things have become not only possible, but enjoyable again.

The surgery helped me regain control of my appetite, but it did more than that—it forced me to confront the emotional reasons behind my overeating. I couldn’t just eat my feelings anymore. I had to dig deep and learn to cope in healthier ways.

JourneyLite was a huge part of my success. In the beginning, the monthly weigh-ins kept me accountable and on track. That consistency gave me the structure I needed to stay focused.

There’s no way I could pick just one thing I can do now that I couldn’t before—there are so many! But even something as simple as walking is so much easier now. I’m no longer just existing—I’m living.

Callie’s Journey: From Struggle to Strength
Total Weight Lost: 187 lbs
Surgery: Gastric Sleeve, August 2025

Before my surgery, my weight dominated my life. From a young age, I was painfully aware of how different I felt. Every room I entered, I compared my size, my plate, my presence to everyone around me. It wasn’t just physical—it was a constant mental battle that stole my peace and joy.

Choosing the gastric sleeve was the most empowering decision I’ve ever made. Since then, I’ve lost 187 pounds and gained something even greater: freedom. I’ve healed my relationship with food and, more importantly, with myself. I now have the energy to play with my kids, the confidence to wear what I love, and the voice to speak up and be seen.

The support from JourneyLite has been nothing short of transformational. Their unique approach doesn’t stop at surgery—it’s a long-term commitment to your success. Their team is always there, guiding and encouraging you every step of the way.

Today, I am more present, more confident, and more me than I’ve ever been. And for the first time in my life, I feel proud of who I see in the mirror.

Bruce’s Journey: From 19 Medications to a New Life

Before my gastric sleeve surgery in October 2022, I was on 19 medications a day—five for high blood pressure, three for diabetes, plus daily insulin. At just 270 pounds, my health was spiraling. I had high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and a grim outlook from my doctors. When I met with Dr. Augusto, it was clear the list of prescriptions would only keep growing. My insurance wouldn’t cover the surgery, so I made a life-changing decision: I pulled money from my 401K to pay for it myself—and it was the best investment I’ve ever made.

Within a month after surgery, I was down to just seven medications. Today, I only take one for a hormonal deficiency and one for blood pressure due to a heart valve issue. My cardiologist and primary care doctor are thrilled with my progress. But here’s the truth—surgery is just a tool. The real change has to happen in your mindset. You have to be willing to put in the work, listen to your care team, and follow their guidance. If you do that, the results will speak for themselves.

Thanks to the incredible support from the JourneyLite team, I’ve regained control of my life. They genuinely care about your success, and they give you every resource you need to keep the weight off for good.

One of the best parts? I can finally see my feet—and tie my shoes without getting out of breath.

Before my gastric sleeve surgery in March 2023, I weighed nearly 300 pounds. I was constantly tired, battling daily knee and back pain after three knee surgeries, and I could barely keep up with my three kids. Even simple outings felt overwhelming. I avoided public places, feeling ashamed and stuck in a body that held me back from truly living.

That all changed when I made the decision to have surgery with JourneyLite—and it’s a decision I would make a million times over.

Now, I weigh 161.7 pounds and live a completely different life. I hit the gym three days a week, jog without pain, and go biking, kayaking, swimming, and walking with my kids. I don’t just keep up with them—I lead the charge! My knee pain is completely gone, and my energy levels are off the charts.

The support I received from JourneyLite made all the difference. Chelsea, the NP, has been phenomenal—always kind, knowledgeable, and supportive. No question ever felt too small. The dietitians were there every step of the way, especially when my weight loss plateaued. They truly care, and it shows.

The best part? I’m finally the active, present mom I always wanted to be. I have my life back—and it’s better than I ever imagined.

By the time I turned 40, I knew it was time for a change. My weight had been a lifelong battle—by age 19, I had reached 315 pounds. For as long as I can remember, food was my comfort, my coping mechanism through good times and bad. But the world isn’t always kind, and I endured years of bullying in school and cruel stares in adulthood. I tried everything—diets, medications, workouts—and nothing seemed to work. I would get stuck, discouraged, and right back where I started.

Then I found JourneyLite and the gastric sleeve.

I had my surgery on April 16, 2025—just 2 months ago and eight days after my 40th birthday—and it was the best gift I’ve ever given myself. In just two months, I’ve already lost 113 pounds and feel like a completely different person. I’m almost in “Onederland,” and for the first time in years, I love taking photos again. No more deleting every picture because I hated how I looked.

The sleeve didn’t just help me lose weight—it changed my relationship with food. I now recognize when I’m full and no longer eat until I feel miserable. I’m making healthier choices, not because I have to, but because I want to. Food is no longer my comfort; it’s fuel, and I finally understand that.

JourneyLite has supported me every step of the way. When I needed an unexpected hysterectomy just two weeks after surgery, they were there with answers and reassurance. Every time I’ve had a question—no matter how random—I’ve received a response within minutes. The monthly dietitian video classes and check-ins have been game-changers in keeping me on track.

Today, I can cross my legs comfortably—something I couldn’t do before without pain. And I smile in pictures, genuinely proud of who I’m becoming.

Thank you, JourneyLite, for giving me the tools, support, and confidence to reclaim my life. I still have a way to go, but for the first time, I truly believe I can get there.

#WeightLossJourney #GastricSleeve #JourneyLite #BeforeAndAfter #WLSCommunity #Onederland #HealthyLiving #VSGJourney #ConfidenceBoost #TransformationTuesday

✨ Meet Audrey ✨
Gastric Sleeve Surgery • June 2020
Total Lost: 83 lbs 💪

“At 253 lbs, I was battling high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol—and sleeping with a CPAP machine every night. I felt trapped in a body that was holding me back.

Just 2 months after surgery with Dr. Curry at @JourneyLite, I was OFF all medications. 🙌

Surgery gave me the tool—but I did the work. This isn’t a diet. It’s a lifestyle.

Today, I can cross my legs, climb stairs without losing my breath, and truly enjoy life with my family and friends again.

Thank you, Dr. Curry and the JourneyLite team, for giving me a second chance at life.” 💖

#WeightLossJourney #GastricSleeve #VSGTransformation #JourneyLite #LifeAfterWLS #FoodFreedom #HealthyLiving