Mindy’s gastric sleeve success story
A family photo helped Mindy recognize how much her weight and diabetes treatment were limiting her life. After gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. James Augusta at JourneyLite, she lost 161 pounds in nine months, reduced her insulin use, and became active with her family again.
A family trip became a wake-up call
Mindy remembers struggling with her weight from childhood, but she did not fully recognize its impact until adulthood. During a family trip in April 2024, she believes she weighed more than 400 pounds.
Seeing the photos afterward brought the situation into focus. Mindy realized her health had moved beyond her control and decided it was time to change direction.
Diabetes treatment and daily life felt overwhelming
At that point, Mindy reported taking five insulin shots a day, a weekly injection, daily diabetes pills, and several other medications. She had little energy or motivation, and everyday tasks felt nearly impossible. She reached out to JourneyLite because she wanted her quality of life back.
“This surgery saved my life. My only regret is not doing it sooner.”
A clear path from consultation to surgery
At her first JourneyLite appointment in May 2024, Mindy weighed 398.8 pounds. Working with Dr. James Augusta and the JourneyLite team, she prepared for gastric sleeve surgery.
Mindy underwent surgery on October 24, 2024, at a weight of 337 pounds. By July 21, 2025—nine months after surgery—she had reached 237 pounds for a total loss of 161 pounds.
Compassion, reassurance, and healthier coping
Mindy says the JourneyLite team answered her questions with compassion and met her doubts with reassurance. Their support helped her feel that she was not facing the process alone.
She also stopped using food to cope with stress and emotions. Instead, Mindy focused on healthy eating, regular activity, and caring for her emotional and mental well-being.
More movement, fewer medications, and family time
In her July 2025 update, Mindy reported using only one insulin shot a day when needed, along with her daily vitamins. Her medication changes were managed as part of her ongoing care.
She began hiking, going to the gym, walking around her neighborhood, and shopping for clothes without frustration. Most importantly, she could participate in life again with her husband, child, and the people she loves.
Mindy’s journey at a glance
- Procedure
- Gastric Sleeve Surgery
- Surgeon
- Dr. James Augusta, JourneyLite
- Surgery date
- October 24, 2024
- First appointment
- 398.8 lbs in May 2024
- Surgery-day weight
- 337 lbs
- Reported weight
- 237 lbs on July 21, 2025
- Total weight loss
- 161 lbs in nine months
This testimonial reflects one patient’s personal experience. Medication changes require medical supervision, and individual results vary.
