Bariatric surgery is the powerful weight-loss solution that has helped many of our patients lose 100-200 pounds or even more, keep it off, and reclaim their health. While it is very powerful, it’s not a stand-alone cure, and it’s not a replacement for intentional diet and exercise. Instead, what bariatric surgery does is level the playing field to give you the same opportunity to lose weight as anyone else—it stops your body from fighting against your weight loss efforts.
In conjunction with diet and exercise, bariatric surgery has helped our patients shed the pounds and regain their health and quality of life. You can see our bariatric surgery testimonials, and links to bariatric surgery before and after photos, below.
Georgette
“Dr. Long is so professional, friendly, knowledgeable, and takes his time to explain everything to you to make sure you understand and are comfortable with the info.”
Read Lacy's story
What was your life like before bariatric surgery?
Very exhausting no energy.
How has bariatric surgery improved your quality of life?
More energetic.
Why did you choose to go with the BMCC?
I was referred by my Endocrinologist office as an alternative to help stop my diabetes.
What was the best thing about working with the BMCC / Dr. Long?
Dr. Long is so professional, friendly, knowledgeable, and takes his time to explain everything to you to make sure you understand and are comfortable with the info.
Would you recommend the BMCC to a friend struggling with his or her weight? Why or why not?
Yes, I would recommend Dr. Long to family, friends, and strangers. The best decision I have ever made was to have this surgery. Not only did I improve my health, I have my life back again with my family. I am very proud to say I’m no longer a diabetic and since surgery no more insulin injections. It’s a very emotional experience and I just wish I would have done this sooner.
Heather
“I feel healthy and full of life. I do many of the same things but I feel so much better and confident.”
Read Heather's story
Describe your life before you had Weight Loss Surgery.
My journey started when my weight kept going up even with 5 days of exercise and eating right, I was tired and feeling out of place in my own body. When I went to the doctor, they told me to maybe stop going to McDonalds for a few months. I was mortified, I hadn’t eaten McDonalds in years, I felt I was being unfairly judged because of my weight. I was thankful when I found Dr Wagh and we were able to start a new program, this is when I finally understood normal is not every bodies normal.
How long were you considering Weight Loss Surgery before you came in?
For over two years we worked on trying to manage my symptoms of PCOS, Pre Diabetes and hypothyroidism, I had a wild swing in weight and Dr Wagh recommended the Gastric Sleeve. I almost fell out of the chair in the office – I had never even considered WLS. I dug in and researched, I made a pros and cons list. I interviewed people I knew that had WLS. When I found the benefits and how much my risk would be reduced for stroke and heart attack it seemed like a no brainer.
What was it like to work with our team?
From start to finish the teams have been amazing. The prep work and follow up are very purposeful. The binder is a bit dated and could use a revision but other than that I have found everyone supportive.
Describe your life now, after Weight Loss Surgery.
I feel healthy and full of life. I do many of the same things but I feel so much better and confident.
Lacy
“Life after surgery has been exhilarating. Not only am I now to the smallest point in my adult life, but I’m able to exercise and play with my kids.”
Read Lacy's story
Describe your life before you had Weight Loss Surgery.
Before my weight loss surgery life was very depressing. I was not able to exercise, put my own shoes on, or even clean myself properly. In 2020, I was at the biggest point I’ve ever been in my life at 499 pounds. I had to sit to do basic chores like dishes and cooking because my back would hurt and my legs would start to go numb. Grocery shopping was a nightmare, I had to use a motorized cart because I could not make it through the store. I was not able to walk long distances or even moderately short distances. I would become out of breath. I could not sleep properly because of my sleep apnea. I had to sleep sitting up to be able to breathe and keep my hands from going numb. Life was horrible and depressing before surgery.
How long were you considering Weight Loss Surgery before you came in?
I have been thinking about weight loss surgery since I was 16. However, I was never able to afford it, nor did my insurance ever cover the procedure. When I moved to Colorado, my doctor told me that my insurance I had at the time covers Bariatric surgery. I was immediately on board and asked what I needed to do.
What was it like to work with our team?
From the time that I initially called the clinic to inquire more questions about the practice and what was offered, I have had nothing but exceptional service. The coordinators, dietitians, office staff, and Dr. Long has been amazing, kind, compassionate and just all around great. What stands out most to me is the day of surgery, Dr. Long asked me if he could pay for me before we go into surgery. I cried. I was so nervous to go into surgery, but was so relieved and calmed, just knowing my physician prays before every surgery for his patients, if they are willing. That was and will always be the most memorable experience with Dr. Long. Even after surgery, Dr. Long was there to assist and answer any questions.
Describe your life now, after Weight Loss Surgery.
Life after surgery has been exhilarating. Not only am I now to the smallest point in my adult life, but I’m able to exercise and play with my kids. We run, hike, exercise, swim and just walk everywhere. I was an active person before surgery, but this is a whole new way to be active and it’s amazing. I’m able to do everything I was not able to before and my children no longer have to help me do everyday tasks.
Kirsten
“My number one favorite thing to do is shop for clothes. My number two has to be working with my dog in Agility classes. I run with her – it’s amazing!”
Read Kirsten's story
Describe your life before you had Weight Loss Surgery.
I worked from home every day. I fell asleep after work and didn’t really go anywhere. My legs were swollen and heavy and I was pre diabetic.
How long were you considering Weight Loss Surgery before you came in?
I had the referral to your practice for a year before I went in. I had a friend that needed my tutoring help to get her through a class so that she could get her degree. I was embarrassed by how big I had gotten when I went to her house and met other people I knew. Getting out of the house gave me the push I needed to make the appointment at your practice.
What was it like to work with our team?
One of the things I liked best when researching your practice is the support you offered to your patients. The classes, dietitians and psychiatrists were excellent and very beneficial to my journey.
Describe your life now, after Weight Loss Surgery.
My number one favorite thing to do is shop for clothes. My number two has to be working with my dog in Agility classes. I run with her – it’s amazing!
Michael
Finding clothes that fit was always such a hassle for me but now I can actually enjoy buying size large shirts and 32 pants (when I can afford them!).
Read Michael's story
Describe your life before you had Weight Loss Surgery.
I had so many health issues. I knew that if I didn’t find a way to loose the weight I would not live to see 40, but no matter how hard I tried I couldn’t get it done on my own. From gout to pre diabetes to skin conditions I was suffering tremendously.
How long were you considering Weight Loss Surgery before you came in?
It took me three years to finally get the courage to admit I needed help. I have been trying and failing for ten years and no more than ten pounds ever lost. When I found out about weight loss surgery and my insurance being able to assist I said “enough is enough” and made the call to Dr. Longs office
What was it like to work with our team?
From start to finish I had the best care and support. I never was in the dark about anything or worried. The surgery went well and I had a few hiccups afterwards but Dr. Long and the staff took care of all my needs
Describe your life now, after Weight Loss Surgery.
I have gained so much confidence and lost many health problems! No more diabetes no more skin problems and I can finally find clothes! Finding clothes that fit was always such a hassle for me but now I can actually enjoy buying size large shirts and 32 pants (when I can afford them!).
Sharon
“I’m 73 and feel like I’ve gotten a new lease on life. I don’t have planters fasciitis like I used to and no more back or knee aches and pains.”
Read Kirsten's story
Describe your life before you had Weight Loss Surgery.
From my mid-thirties, stress, childbearing, hormonal changes, yo-yo dieting and lack of proper eating and exercise resulted in my weight from a somewhat normal weight of 135 to 260 by 2012. At the point I opted for a Lapband but it resulted in GERD and reflux, but the worst was the pain of food getting stuck if I talked while eating and throwing up to relieve it, which occur regularly. On top of it, though I lost lots of weight, most of it returned after a few years. Besides the embarrassment of it, the weight prevented me from living a full and healthy life. Besides the stomach problems, I had low energy, back and knee pain and I suspect the reflux might also triggered the asthma for which I started having to be treated. By 2021, I was back up to 235 and miserable.
How long were you considering Weight Loss Surgery before you came in?
I really didn’t think about further surgery until the summer of 2021 when a friend shared her amazing experience with gastric bypass. It prompted me to do some research on the Lapband for which I found out it was a failing tool and should be removed by 10 years. This is when I found Dr. Long at LiveNew and went in for a consultation. He confirmed my findings. I realized what I really needed was the WLS tool and the complete lifestyle change they offered. I believe it was a very timely God send because Dr. Long found that the Lapband had twisted and he was a life saver for me by removing it.
What was it like to work with our team?
It’s been wonderful working with Dr. Long and all of his team. Through the very educational nutrition classes, the nutritionist and program requirements motivated me to start making changes to my eating habits and exercise even before I had the surgery. The medical exam requirements revealed the damage GERD had caused my esophagus and stomach which was healed before the surgery. It also revealed I had extreme sleep apnea that I didn’t know I had and got me on therapy for that. And their follow up has been so good for me. I couldn’t have done this on my own.
Describe your life now, after Weight Loss Surgery.
At 11 months post op, I have lost 75 pounds so far and gained so much energy. I walk a few miles every morning and do weight training twice a week. I’m 73 and feel like I’ve gotten a new lease on life. I don’t have planters fasciitis like I used to and no more back or knee aches and pains. And the best part is that what I do now with eating and moving are my lifestyle, my habits that won’t change. And buying clothes and having my picture taken has become a joy again!
Angie Goodger
The life changes though have been worth every second. My advice: Stop waiting. Don’t blame yourself. Find a care team you can trust. Play with recipes. Play outside. Find protein you love. Include your friends and loved ones on your journey. Don’t give up.
Read Angie Goodger Story
It hasn’t always been easy. The life changes though have been worth every second. My advice: Stop waiting. Don’t blame yourself. Find a care team you can trust. Play with recipes. Play outside. Find protein you love. Include your friends and loved ones on your journey. Don’t give up.
“I’ve lost more than half of my weight. I no longer take prescription medications and am no longer diabetic, hypertensive, etc. We hike and cross country ski, kayak, ice skate, remodel our home and go for long walks. Who could have imagined? The only thing left is to start that family, which we hope to do this year. Thank God for Dr. Long and his team!
Read the rest here.
Rose Martinez
I am so happy with the results of my bariatric surgery. I am no longer considered diabetic (even my ophthalmologist has confirmed that I am not diabetic). I can exercise more and have more energy. My weight is almost down to a normal BMI. Lots of people are commenting how much better I look. Now all I have to do is get new clothes!
Read Rose Martinez Story
What was your life like before bariatric surgery?
Before I had bariatric surgery, I was considered diabetic and morbidly obese. I didn’t like having to take diabetic drugs and I was very self-conscious of my body image. It seemed that whatever I tried, I couldn’t lose weight and I was afraid of being diabetic for the rest of my life. Having a history of family heart disease and diabetes and I didn’t want to have that kind of a future.
How has bariatric surgery improved your quality of life?
I am so happy with the results of my bariatric surgery. I am no longer considered diabetic (even my ophthalmologist has confirmed that I am not diabetic). I can exercise more and have more energy. My weight is almost down to a normal BMI. Lots of people are commenting how much better I look. Now all I have to do is get new clothes!
Why did you choose to go with the BMCC?
Dr. Sharmini Long was my first introduction to Dr. Josh Long. She was my endocrinologist and suggested I have bariatric surgery. I wasn’t able to at the time because insurance didn’t pay for it. I went to a seminar that Dr. Josh presented and was convinced that he was the right doctor for me. Dr. Josh is very caring and wants his patients to succeed.
What was the best thing about working with the BMCC / Dr. Long?
The whole staff at BMCC and Dr. Josh are fabulous. They don’t demean you and don’t judge you about what you eat. They truly care that the patient succeeds throughout the whole process, from beginning to end.
Would you recommend the BMCC to a friend struggling with his or her weight? Why or why not?
I actually did refer a friend to Dr. Josh. She has gone through with surgery and is on her way to losing weight. I would definitely refer anyone again to Dr. Josh. He is the best as far as I am concerned. Dr. Josh stayed with me through all my challenges and made sure that I was doing great.
Colleen White
Today, 2 years later and 105 pounds less I am a new person. No walker, no cane, no Oxygen. I am completely cured of diabetes and off all those meds.
Read Colleen White Story
What was your life like before bariatric surgery?
Before I had my surgery I was very ill and my doctor had told me that I couldn’t have the surgery because I would not live through it because of all the co-morbidities. She was convinced I would die on the operating table. It came to a point where she told me I needed to have the surgery because I was going to die if I didn’t get the weight off and improve my health. I was walking with a cane or a walker due to arthritis and lumbar stenosis. I was on Oxygen 24/7 due to lung issues. I suffered from pulmonary hypertension and right sided ventricular hypertrophy. I was seriously diabetic for 20 years, and on 2 shots of insulin and 3 other diabetes medicines. I had very high blood pressure and was on 2 meds for it. My cholesterol was 430 WITH medication. I spent most of my day in bed, rarely left the house and had almost no life outside of the upstairs of my home. My family cooked, cleaned and did the laundry. They brought my meals to me.
How has bariatric surgery improved your quality of life?
Today, 2 years later and 105 pounds less I am a new person. No walker, no cane, no Oxygen. I am completely cured of diabetes and off all those meds. No meds for blood pressure or cholesterol. My cholesterol is now 120. My heart is doing awesome and I am vibrant and active. I spend a lot of time with my grandchildren and could not be happier!
Why did you choose to go with the BMCC?
About a year before my surgery I read a story about Dr. Joshua Long in the Parker Adventist newsletter. Something spoke to my heart (I believe it was God) and told me that someday he would be my surgeon and he would help me. When my PCP said I should have bariatric surgery she told me she was sending me to another bariatric surgeon and I told her, “No, I need to go to Dr. Long at Parker Adventist, he is supposed to be my surgeon.” She thought I was a little nuts but after looking him up she approved. My very first meeting with Dr. Long confirmed to me that all was going to go well. I knew I was going to survive the surgery. I had complete and utter confidence in Dr. Long.
What was the best thing about working with the BMCC / Dr. Long?
It is impossible to name one thing that is the best about BMCC / Dr. Long. He and his staff are just tremendous. They cover every aspect of this journey we go on to recover our health. The support they provide is top notch and I don’t believe there is a group out there that does it better. My success is mine but I do not believe I would be where I am today without the support and love that I have received from Dr. Long and all the wonderful people in his office. They truly care about you, it is more than just a job to them!
Would you recommend the BMCC to a friend struggling with his or her weight? Why or why not?
I think it is probably obvious from my previous comments that I would definitely recommend BMCC to anyone, friend, family or acquaintance. They are the absolute best out there, bar none!
Martha Lugo
Dr. Long took the time to listen to my situation and he allowed me to voice my fears and concerns as well as ask several questions. He treated me like a valuable human being.
Read Martha Lugo Story
As I embarked on my journey to pursue bariatric surgery again, Dr. Long renewed my motivation and my respect for bariatric medicine. From the moment I met him and his staff, I was impressed at the professionalism, the high standards, the exceptional coordinated team effort and the level of care I received. Dr. Long took the time to listen to my situation and he allowed me to voice my fears and concerns as well as ask several questions. He treated me like a valuable human being.
I was highly touched by his compassion as he laid out the plan of action for my treatment. During the first appointment, I cried tears of mixed emotion as I realized how much he really cared and as I witnessed his tremendous passion for his profession.
Read the rest here.
Johnetta Hebrlee
I can only thank Dr. Long and his staff for giving me my life back. I have set some new goals for myself and look forward to walking a 5k and participating in a triathlon.
Read Johnetta Hebrlee Story
After working with a health coach and my doctor, for the last 2 years, charting my exercise and food intake, I had limited success. After a heart to heart with my doctor and then with my health coach, both suggested that perhaps I need a different tool to give me success and they suggested gastric sleeve surgery. Several weeks later my doctor called me out of the blue and said he had just attended a “get to know” the doctors in the new network. He said to me “Johnetta, I listened to this surgeon and he’s the one. I just know that he’s the one to do your surgery.” The reality of what he was telling me was this “it’s time to get real and make the call.” I made that call in March 2015 and have never regretted it. Like an addict admitting to an addiction, that was the hardest call for me to make. I cried and barely got through the telephone interview. Later, as I thought back over that call, I had a sense of understanding and of compassion from the receptionist I talked with and thought “if the doctor is anything like this, I’ve made the right decision.”
I met with my team at the Bariatric and Metabolic Center of Rockies-Parker Adventist Hospital, on March 18, 2015, I could not have been more impressed. After meeting with the dietitian, psychologist and nurse, I could not wait to meet Dr. Long. I was not disappointed. Dr. Long was sincere, genuine and took his time to listen about me and my weight and health issues. We went over each surgical option and I made the decision to have the (loop) duodenal switch. I was on my way!
I had my surgery September 1, 2015. Twenty two days later my mother died and I went through a very trying time. Dr. Long called me at home and asked how I was doing and what could he or the “team” do to help. In January, my father had a stroke and again Dr. Long called to lend his support and guidance through another of life’s trials. Time and again, Dr. Long or one of his team members has reached out and gone beyond the “usual” doctor/nurse/patient relationship to ensure my success but more than that to inquire and lend assistance for my well being, whether mentally or physically. I cannot say enough about my team. They get 10 stars out of 5 for being the best!
Dr. Long and his team have assisted me in every step of this journey and their positive attitude and atmosphere of the office make each visit a wonderful one. From the surgery day to my follow-up appointments, I actually look forward to seeing Dr. Long and having a health related and non-health related conversation with him-because he cares. Truly a man that followed his calling. I can only thank Dr. Long and his staff for giving me my life back. I have set some new goals for myself and look forward to walking a 5k and participating in a triathlon. Due to the compassion, guidance and support I receive from Dr. Long and his staff, I know I’m going to be alright!!!
Kari Romriell
I love to work out and go for walks and ride bikes. I went on a 10 mile backpacking trip and felt great.
Read Kari Romriell Story
After having been married for 2 years, we found bliss in everything we did…except one thing…our weight. We spent most of our adult lives with fluctuating weights, diets, extreme weight loss, then gaining again. Now after finding our perfect match, we wished to conquer this as well…. We had seen a couple in our Church go through this process, and became very interested….
It seems we ate for many different reasons, and few of those reasons actually had to do with hunger. As we identified our true unhappiness, it became clear that we needed help, a tool, to help us with our true desire: to be healthy.
So, in March of 2015, Keri began research on this Bariatric process, and we spoke more deeply to our friends who’d undergone this transformation. After filling in most of the answers, we prayed and decided to move forward with this process, contacting Dr. Long, and, our journey had begun.
The best part of the education piece of this decision was the realization that eating would absolutely change. My friend summed it up perfectly, for him, “eating was no longer fun”. This, for me, was wonderful news, because who actually continues with something once it is no longer fun? This surgery would supplement the knowledge given to us by giving us a tool, with which we could enjoy lasting success. A permanent fix, if we chose to make it so.
Fast forward, May 2016, 4 months post-op… we clearly see that this is the BEST decision we could have ever made; life is changed, and for the better. We exercise daily, eat what is required, and are enjoying the benefits thereof…. This means, endless piles of clothing that no longer fit, the positive reinforcement of peoples compliments, and being able to journey together to the happiness we enjoy. So far, combined, we have lost 125lbs, heading to 170 lbs or so when this is all said and done… the habits that we have learned and adopted have become a part of daily life.
We cannot imagine another Doctor or Practice with whom this process could have been so wonderfully orchestrated…. Dr. Long and his staff are the kindest, most loving, and supportive group of individuals we have ever could have met. Each person has contributed to our success, each and every one.
We have tremendous gratitude for this gift which we have been given… we are thankful on a daily basis for this and offer our testimony to anyone looking to solve a weight challenge.
Georgette Camacho
The best decision I have ever made was to have this surgery. Not only did I improve my health, I have my life back again with my family.
Read Georgette Camacho Story
What was your life like before bariatric surgery?
Very exhausting no energy.
How has bariatric surgery improved your quality of life?
More energetic.
Why did you choose to go with the BMCC?
I was referred by my Endocrinologist office as an alternative to help stop my diabetes.
What was the best thing about working with the BMCC / Dr. Long?
Dr. Long is so professional, friendly, knowledgeable, and takes his time to explain everything to you to make sure you understand and are comfortable with the info.
Would you recommend the BMCC to a friend struggling with his or her weight? Why or why not?
Yes, I would recommend Dr. Long to family, friends, and strangers. The best decision I have ever made was to have this surgery. Not only did I improve my health, I have my life back again with my family. I am very proud to say I’m no longer a diabetic and since surgery no more insulin injections. It’s a very emotional experience and I just wish I would have done this sooner.
Lisa and Chris Chesrown
We were no longer prisoners in our own bodies, we were no longer handicapped by our weight, we were living and moving and feeling better then we had felt in so many years.
Read Lisa and Chris Chesrown Story
This is a story of a couple that truly does everything together. Hello my name is Chris Chesrown and this is a Journey that me and my wife Lisa began 1 year ago. Since late August in 1999 me and my wife have been a team in life, a team in love and a team in faith. Shortly after getting married and starting our family we both started to slowly and steadily gain weight. We both struggled with the usual see saw battles of dieting and exercise. The roller coaster of weight loss and emotional stress. While we were completely satisfied with each other and our lives together, we were also prisoners in our own bodies. We both felt lost, hopeless, and miserable about our own appearance, our eating habits, and overall fitness level. After 14 years of dieting and trying just about every gimmick or fad known to man we were so lost and had no direction on how to turn our life and our health around….. It gets to a point after so many years that you just feel hopeless and too far gone.
This next chapter in our lives together we so proudly and happily refer to as “our journey”. In the summer of 2014 Lisa was just done!!! Fed up with how she looked and felt day to day. She had mentioned over the past couple of years that she would really like to possibly have bariatric surgery. So wanting my wife and partner to be happy and feel about herself the way that I feel toward her I set out to research these types of weight loss surgeries and what they are about. Like (a) beacon from above the very first site I ended up checking out was The Bariatric and Metabolic Center of Colorado at Parker Adventist Hospital. There was an advertisement for a free seminar about these surgeries by the Surgeon who performs them. Something just seemed to feel very comforting about the info on the seminar so I signed Lisa up and just as we always do we went together to find out if this was something Lisa would really like to do. After meeting Doctor Long and listening to how he works not only as a surgeon, but more so as a person and how he approaches his life’s work with such reverence and passion to truly help people break the chains of weight and the other health issues that come with it. We weren’t in the car on the way home 5 minutes before Lisa said I want to do this….. Never even thinking this was something I would ever do I turned to her and with complete confidence said “I want to do this too”. Our Journey began that night! We called the office the next day and signed up for a trio of consultations. We would need to meet with their in house nutritionist, psychologist, and of course meet with Doctor Long. From the very first time we anxiously and nervously opened the door to the clinic we were welcomed with gorgeous smiles, caring words and people that truly love what they do and the people who’s lives they touch everyday. From that day forward we had many consultations, classes and requirements to not only help us confirm our commitment to this life change, but to also teach us how to live a more educated and disciplined lifestyle with all of the negative attributes which contribute to weight and health issues.
The surgery!!!! We both of course chose to have the same procedure from the list of many that they offer. We chose to have “the switch” otherwise known as (loop) duodenal switch. Our stomachs would be reduced in size and volume by up to 80% and some other plumbing would be rerouted as well. This seemed like the best option for us because of the amount of not only the amount of weight we needed to lose but also we want to have the best opportunity to keep the weight from coming back as we have learned a lot of weight issues are more then food related it can also be genetic. Lisa had her surgery first on October 27th, and I was right behind her on Nov 17th. Oh what a difference a year can make!!!!!
Life after surgery. Recovery was exactly what they said it would be and just a few weeks after surgery we both could really start to feel the difference as well as see the weight disappearing. We were no longer prisoners in our own bodies, we were no longer handicapped by our weight, we were living and moving and feeling better then we had felt in so many years. We found ourselves wanting to go our and go for walks and adventures and wanting to explore our new lives. We were set free and it feels better then any dream or fantasy you could imagine, because it is real and continues to get better everyday! We fit in any booth, chair, seat there is and for me that is something I have never felt in as long as I can remember. We are currently planning a huge family vacation and we can’t wait to go on the plane and be able to sit in the seat comfortably. We owe our new lease on life and our amazing new health to The Bariatric Center, Doctor Long, and the entire staff who has brome not only great mentors and coaches, but true friends and life long partners. We are forever grateful and proud to be a part of Doctor Long’s family of success!
Keri and Chris Sexton
We cannot imagine another Doctor or Practice with whom this process could have been so wonderfully orchestrated…. Dr. Long and his staff are the kindest, most loving, and supportive group of individuals we have ever could have met. Each person has contributed to our success, each and every one.
Read Keri and Chris Sexton Story
After having been married for 2 years, we found bliss in everything we did…except one thing…our weight. We spent most of our adult lives with fluctuating weights, diets, extreme weight loss, then gaining again. Now after finding our perfect match, we wished to conquer this as well…. We had seen a couple in our Church go through this process, and became very interested….
It seems we ate for many different reasons, and few of those reasons actually had to do with hunger. As we identified our true unhappiness, it became clear that we needed help, a tool, to help us with our true desire: to be healthy.
So, in March of 2015, Keri began research on this Bariatric process, and we spoke more deeply to our friends who’d undergone this transformation. After filling in most of the answers, we prayed and decided to move forward with this process, contacting Dr. Long, and, our journey had begun.
The best part of the education piece of this decision was the realization that eating would absolutely change. My friend summed it up perfectly, for him, “eating was no longer fun”. This, for me, was wonderful news, because who actually continues with something once it is no longer fun? This surgery would supplement the knowledge given to us by giving us a tool, with which we could enjoy lasting success. A permanent fix, if we chose to make it so.
Fast forward, May 2016, 4 months post-op… we clearly see that this is the BEST decision we could have ever made; life is changed, and for the better. We exercise daily, eat what is required, and are enjoying the benefits thereof…. This means, endless piles of clothing that no longer fit, the positive reinforcement of peoples compliments, and being able to journey together to the happiness we enjoy. So far, combined, we have lost 125lbs, heading to 170 lbs or so when this is all said and done… the habits that we have learned and adopted have become a part of daily life.
We cannot imagine another Doctor or Practice with whom this process could have been so wonderfully orchestrated…. Dr. Long and his staff are the kindest, most loving, and supportive group of individuals we have ever could have met. Each person has contributed to our success, each and every one.
We have tremendous gratitude for this gift which we have been given… we are thankful on a daily basis for this and offer our testimony to anyone looking to solve a weight challenge.
Rochelle Goforth
I couldn’t imagine a better experience anywhere else and hope that other people get to experience the amazing and life changing journey with the staff at BMCC. I feel like we are all one big family and will stay that way for a very long time. It’s inspiring to be able to work with a doctor that is passionate about what he does and actually treats you as a person whose life and quality of life matters and not just a patient on his schedule.
Read Rochelle Goforth Story
What was your life like before bariatric surgery?
I have always struggled with my weight for as long as I can remember. Just like so many other people, I have tried just about every diet and pill I could get my hands on with little to no results. I was at a very low place before I was finally approved for gastric bypass in February of 2014. I had given up on ever having a ‘normal’ life with my husband and three children. I had just decided that I would be overweight for the rest of my shortened life and figured I deserved whatever consequence I would have because of my obesity. I was starting high blood pressure medication and my cholesterol was high enough that I was being closely monitored through blood work. I was 36 years old and felt like I was at least in my 50s.
How has bariatric surgery improved your quality of life?
I feel like I have won the lottery and have been given a second chance in life! March 25, 2014 was the first day of the rest of my new life and I can’t even start to express in words how grateful I am. I am a completely new person in many ways but still have all of my positive characteristics I had before surgery. I lost 147 pounds in just under a year and feel amazing! I have been able to be more active with my three teenagers and husband. I can actually out run them! I started running about 6 months after I had surgery and I haven’t stopped since. As of today, I have participated in 8 different races and am currently training for my 3rd half marathon! I was always envious of the people I would see running while I was driving to work and wished it was easier for me to move my body and carry myself like that. I’m not someone that has ever enjoyed physical activity, and now I crave it! I can’t believe I’m actually an official runner and I’m not embarrassed of my abilities!!!
Why did you choose to go with the BMCC?
I chose to go with BMCC for several reasons. The biggest reason was the fact that I never ever felt judged and always felt like my life mattered to all of the staff members on my team. The sense of community and support at BMCC couldn’t be bigger and I would never have been as successful without their support and education.
What was the best thing about working with the BMCC / Dr. Long?
I love that I still feel like I am supported 100% by all the staff members at BMCC over a year later. I know I can call or email with any questions and I don’t feel like I have been left to fend for myself on this new way of life. The education and support I have received, and still continue to receive, has been invaluable and something I will take with me for the rest of my life.
Would you recommend the BMCC to a friend struggling with his or her weight? Why or why not?
I have recommended BMCC to many friends that are struggling with their weight and will continue to do so. I couldn’t imagine a better experience anywhere else and hope that other people get to experience the amazing and life changing journey with the staff at BMCC. I feel like we are all one big family and will stay that way for a very long time. It’s inspiring to be able to work with a doctor that is passionate about what he does and actually treats you as a person whose life and quality of life matters and not just a patient on his schedule.
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