Olvin's Story (Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy)
Olvin of Stamford, CT describes himself as having, “always been a bit husky.” In 1989, he immigrated to the United States from Honduras. Once he got settled in the new chapter of his life, he got married and admittedly stopped paying full attention to what he was eating over the years.
He expresses, “I realized it was time for me to take charge of my health but doing it on my own seemed impossible. Even tasks like tying my shoes made me feel tired. My self-esteem took a hit.”
When Olvin knew it was time to make a significant change, he called upon Stamford’s team of surgical weight loss experts to guide him in his options and possible next steps. Together, Olvin and the team decided a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy was the best treatment choice for his circumstances and lifestyle. He recalls, “The decision was almost instant. I had no second thoughts. I felt ready for it.”
The surgery took place on November 9, 2017. “I can’t thank the entire team enough. This decision really changed my life,” Olvin recounts.
In the weeks and months after his surgery, Olvin noticed a drastic change in his level of activity. When he returned to his job at Stamford Public Schools, his students commented on his new appearance. That’s when Olvin showed the students his remarkable before and after picture which was met with many versions of, "wow."
Currently, Olvin works with a nutritionist and is committed to a life of activity, healthy eating and overall positive lifestyle choices. He admits that his confidence levels have skyrocketed both at the gym and in the men’s section of clothing stores.
For those who truly struggle with excess weight, Olvin advises: “Don’t get discouraged if trying to lose weight on your own doesn’t work. Know it’s important to be healthy but that there are people you can talk to. The entire surgical team in charge of my care was great. So if you qualify for surgical weight loss, go for it. It’s worth it.”