Kathy Rogers-Hamalainen
I guess I could come up with a million reasons why I allowed myself to get to tipping the scale at well over 350 pounds. My main reason is my love of food, especially junk food. When the day came that my size 26 jeans no longer fit and I knew I was over 350 pounds, I realized I needed to change my life or I wasn’t going to live to see my adult kids and my grandkids live their lives.
I believe it was in March of 2020 that I had my first appointment to find out about gastric bypass. Everyone, and I do mean EVERYONE, was so friendly and understanding. The entire process was explained to me and I knew this was the place for me. I went through the initial process and in June 2020 I had my bypass surgery. It was the best thing I have ever done for myself!
It’s not a magic cure, as it takes work and dedication. I have learned that you can fail your bypass, but I do not believe it can fail you. It’s a tool and we always need to remember we use our tools - our tools don’t use us.
I have also learned to change the way I look at food. Always remembering that protein and water intake is the key to success along with a positive attitude.
From day one of meeting with Dr. (Bernard) Benedetto, he was kind, caring and never judgmental. At one point in my journey, I got off track and started to gain weight. I was upset and knew I needed to hold myself accountable, so I scheduled an appointment with Dr Benedetto. I almost cancelled it because I was embarrassed, but I knew if I did, that it would have been a huge mistake. I would have kept getting back into my old ways. I figured he would be like any other doctor I’ve been to that have made me feel bad about my weight. But he was the exact opposite! He reminded me about how far I had come, and yes, I had gained back some of my weight, but I still was way down from where I started. He talked with me and made me feel better. So much better that I got back on track and haven’t looked back. I have gotten my life back!
I have lost over 200 pounds with the help and guidance of the wonderful people at the Portsmouth Regional Hospital weight loss surgery program. I cannot thank them enough for their guidance and kindness.
— Kathy Rogers-Hamalainen
