At the youthful age of 31, Travis Z. was routinely waking up with terrible back and knee pain. He had been overweight his entire life, which meant putting up with increasing limitations causes by the excess weight. As a correctional officer, “there were days I would go to work and wonder what I was going to do if my partners were getting hurt – would I be able to help them? It would eat me alive.” Finally, Travis decided enough was enough. “I did some research online and found Dr. Sasse,” he says. It was the beginning of a journey that would take Travis from 315 pounds down to 166 pounds and change the course of his life forever.
The Procedure and Beyond
Once Travis made the decision to pursue weight-loss surgery, he was the ideal patient – diligent in his research, forthcoming with Dr. Sasse, and clear on expectations. He researched the different procedures offered and found that many people had great success with the gastric bypass. Dr. Sasse agreed that it was a good fit for Travis, and in January of 2020, the procedure was performed. “I was very nervous,” Travis remembers, “but I can honestly say this was the easiest procedure I’ve ever had. Dr. Sasse and his team were with me every step of the way. They have an amazing support team.”
Travis describes the procedure as “an amazing tool,” which is an excellent perspective. “You do have to put in the effort,” he explains, “but pain was minimal and Dr. Sasse gave me everything I need.” Travis describes how he was prepared to kick the bad habits and stick with it. “Healthy eating is a must,” he says.
Advice from the Patient
The idea of any kind of surgery can be daunting. But a little perspective from someone who’s been there can often be helpful. “If you’re considering this, all I can tell you is to do it,” says Travis. “Don’t wait. Get out there and take the leap. Get your journey started. If I could go back to the night before my procedure, I would just tell myself to relax. I’d say, ‘Pal, this is nothing!’ Don’t be afraid.”
Travis also highly recommends Dr. Sasse and his team. “He’s there no matter what time of day or night,” he says. “They truly care about their patients.”
If you’re considering weight-loss surgery in the new year, you’re bound to have questions. Dr. Sasse’s team is here to answer them all. Contact us today to learn more.
