Leslie’s gastric sleeve success story
After a lifetime of weight-related limitations, Leslie chose gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite. She has lost 112 pounds and rediscovered the freedom to travel comfortably, walk without becoming winded, shop with her sisters, and look forward to skiing again.
When struggling began to feel normal
Leslie first recognized weight as a problem during childhood, but it was only later that she could see how completely it had shaped her life. Walking, getting out of bed, and sitting on an airplane were difficult, yet a lifetime of adapting made those struggles seem normal.
Gradually, her world grew smaller. She stopped skiing because getting to the hill took too much effort. She stopped swimming because she felt uncomfortable in a swimsuit, and she stopped taking walks because she could not go very far without becoming short of breath.
Choosing a lasting tool at age 44
After trying many programs, losing weight temporarily, and repeatedly gaining it back, Leslie reached out for help at age 44. She underwent gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite Surgery Center in January 2025 and describes the procedure as a lifesaving turning point.
“I can walk by a mirror and smile—smile at the fact that I am truly happy.”
Learning what satisfaction really feels like
The preoperative meal plan produced early progress that helped Leslie feel motivated. After surgery, becoming full with much smaller portions showed her how much she had been overeating and changed the way she approached food.
She began prioritizing protein and learned that social time did not have to revolve around restaurants or alcohol. As old cravings faded and new habits took hold, Leslie says she developed a deeper appreciation for herself and confidence that she can continue moving toward her goals.
Support through progress and plateaus
Monthly medical and dietitian visits gave Leslie structure, education, and accountability. She values having questions answered by text, phone, and during classes, and says the JourneyLite team has continued to make her feel supported rather than alone.
A class about non-scale victories arrived at exactly the right time: her weight had been unchanged for several weeks, but pants that had recently felt too tight suddenly fit. The experience reminded her that meaningful progress is not always captured by the scale.
Travel, movement, and joy restored
Leslie’s weight decreased from 304 pounds to 192 pounds. Because she travels frequently for work and pleasure, comfortably fitting in one airplane seat and fastening the seatbelt became one of her most meaningful victories.
She can now walk without becoming winded, cross her legs, and shop in the same clothing stores as her sisters. She is also eager to return to skiing and scheduled two trips for 2026—reclaiming an activity that her weight had once pushed out of her life.
Leslie’s journey at a glance
- Procedure
- Gastric Sleeve Surgery (VSG)
- Surgeon
- Dr. James Augusta, JourneyLite
- Surgery date
- January 2025
- Highest weight
- 304 lbs
- Current weight
- 192 lbs
- Total weight loss
- 112 lbs
Leslie gave JourneyLite permission to share her story and images. This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Individual results vary.
