Justice’s Gastric Sleeve Success Story
“I finally learned how to build a healthier life—not just lose weight.”
My name is Justice, and I had gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite in April 2025.
My highest adult weight was 297 pounds, and I’m now down to 187 pounds.
I first realized my weight was becoming a problem when I was a teenager, but for a long time I didn’t fully understand just how much it was affecting every part of my life. Looking back now, losing weight has improved both my physical health and my mental health in ways I never imagined.
My self-esteem and confidence have grown so much. I feel more comfortable in my body, and I’m able to show up more fully in everyday life. On top of that, many of my obesity-related health issues have improved — including diabetes and PCOS symptoms — and I have so much more energy and mobility now.
How surgery changed my relationship with food
Having gastric sleeve surgery completely changed the way I think about food. It helped me learn how to:
control my portions
make healthier choices
fuel my body with intention
move my body in ways that are realistic and sustainable
That has been the biggest difference for me. This journey hasn’t just been about weight loss — it has been about learning how to live a healthier life in a way I can actually maintain.
Why JourneyLite made such a big difference
The support from the JourneyLite team was a huge part of my success. Their guidance, education, and consistent encouragement helped me feel informed, prepared, and supported through every stage of the process.
Knowing I had a knowledgeable and compassionate team to rely on gave me confidence, helped me stay accountable, and made it easier to navigate both the physical and emotional parts of surgery and recovery.
Why I chose surgery after trying GLP-1 medications
I had tried GLP-1 medications before surgery, but I ultimately chose surgery because I wanted something that would help me truly learn how to:
make healthy choices
fuel my body properly
control my portions
create a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle
For me, surgery became the tool that helped me finally build those habits.
My biggest victory
One of the biggest changes in my life now is simple, but it means everything:
I can go, go, go all day long without feeling out of breath or exhausted by everyday tasks.
That kind of freedom is something I don’t take for granted.
I’m so thankful for Dr. Augusta and the JourneyLite team for helping me change my life.
