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.
“I can’t use my lap as a makeup holder anymore—but at least I can bend over to pick things up.”
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.
