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.
“Surgery is just a tool. The real change has to happen in your mindset.”
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.
This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Individual results vary.
