After struggling to lose weight and dealing with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and sleep apnea, Susan Dietrich knew something needed to change. 

“It was a combination of being ashamed of how I looked and the frustration of not being able to get the weight off myself,” she said. “I could always get off a few pounds, and they would come right back.” 

She decided to have gastric bypass surgery at Kettering Health Dayton. 

Susan’s new life  

Before the surgery to reduce the size of the stomach, Susan went through a six-month program that taught her what to eat and how to lose weight safely. The program helped Susan prepare for the future, and she felt excited about reaching her weight-loss goal. 

Susan had her surgery in early 2021. And has since lost 100 pounds. Not only does she have more energy and a newfound confidence, but she also no longer faces the health risks and challenges she did before. 

Words of encouragement 

Now, Susan feels healthier and happier. While gastric bypass requires lifestyle changes, she encourages anyone feeling overwhelmed by their weight loss difficulties to talk to their doctor about bariatric surgery. But most importantly, Susan reminds them to stay patient and be kind to themselves. 

“You didn’t put it all on in one day,” she said. “It’s not going to come off in one day.”