I’d been obese pretty much my whole life. I was always active. I tried every diet in the world, but it really didn’t make any difference. Short of starving myself, nothing worked.

I had the surgery with Dr. Baranov in October of 2013. At the time I weighed 250 pounds. Today, eight months later, I’m 141 pounds. I feel on top of the world.
Dr. Baranov is an amazing surgeon. He’s very passionate about his work. And his entire team is great. I felt totally and completely cared for every step along the way.

For someone thinking about the surgery, I would say, Be aware that this is a challenging process. I went on something of an emotional rollercoaster ride. You’ve got to work at this. But the thing is, it works! I’m thinner, healthier, and my self-confidence is at a place it’s never been. I look like I always knew I looked on the inside.

I feel like the future is going to be great. I’ve established good habits. I’m at the gym four to five days a week. We’re putting together a “Baranov Team” to take part in an upcoming 5K.

That’s a benefit I would not have expected. I got a great surgeon, and his staff are some of the greatest people. I feel like they have been on this journey with me with all the support and care they have provided.