Julie’s gastric sleeve success story
After a lifetime of weight struggles and reaching 378 pounds, Julie began rebuilding her health through medical weight loss, counseling, and gastric sleeve surgery. She reports losing 202 pounds—and gaining mobility, confidence, and a life she once thought was out of reach.
Growing up believing weight was simply her life
Julie remembers being bullied, teased, and humiliated about her weight for as long as she can remember. Doctors told her to lose weight, but she says they did not offer practical tools that could help her create lasting change.
As her weight continued to climb in adulthood, the possibility of a different future felt increasingly distant.
A health turning point at 378 pounds
By her early 30s, Julie had severe arthritis in both knees, needed knee replacements, and had developed asthma after COVID. At 378 pounds, she felt exhausted and breathless and knew she needed to act not only for her body, but for her life.
“I’ve lost 202 pounds—and gained a life I never thought was possible.”
Building a foundation before gastric sleeve surgery
Julie began with JourneyLite’s medical weight-loss program. She learned to make more supportive food choices and used counseling to work through emotional issues connected with food.
As a lifelong yo-yo dieter, Julie knew she could lose weight but had struggled to maintain it. Gastric sleeve surgery in June 2023 became the tool she needed to support the work she had already begun.
Support throughout the process
Julie describes JourneyLite’s support as phenomenal. She says the dietitians, nurse practitioners, and Dr. Curry answered questions, offered guidance, and celebrated each step with her.
She especially valued feeling heard and having a plan shaped around her needs. Since surgery, Julie reports losing 202 pounds and, for the first time, keeping the weight off.
From breathlessness to 5Ks, a 10K, and everyday freedom
Before surgery, Julie could barely walk to the bathroom without losing her breath. She has since completed multiple 5Ks and a 10K, and she walked a 5K every day during one January.
The victories also show up in ordinary moments: fitting into seats without worry, seeing a weight under 200 pounds, and enjoying a Disney trip where her husband took photos to celebrate her progress.
For the first time, Julie says she feels like someone worth celebrating. She credits JourneyLite with helping her change her life and says she will never stop being grateful.
Julie’s journey at a glance
- Highest reported weight
- 378 pounds
- Procedure
- Gastric sleeve surgery
- Surgery date
- June 2023
- Total lost
- 202 pounds
- Milestones
- Multiple 5Ks, a 10K, and a reported weight under 200 pounds
This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Surgical eligibility, recovery, and weight-loss results vary. Please discuss individual treatment options and risks with a qualified healthcare professional.
