Olney, Pennsylvania — Bariatric surgery can be life-changing for obese people.
However, long-term success requires surgery and support.
The Olney man explains how a two-pronged process has helped him turn his health around.
“You looked up from your laundry basket one day and you weighed 455 pounds, how did you get here?” says Leonard Lett.
Leonard looks back at his old self, unable to believe that someone so active could have gotten so out of control.
“I had a family, a job, and other obligations that didn’t give me the opportunity to exercise,” he recalls.
He finally hits a wall during a family trip.
“I had to give up my seat in the front row because I couldn’t get a seat,” he recalls. “My son is 7. We’re at Disney. We can’t go on anything together. It’s one of those things that just makes me cry because he’s never going to be 7 again.” ”
Leonard called Temple Hospital the day after he returned to Japan and began the procedure for bariatric surgery.
His family went all out in search of a healthier diet.
“My wife decided to go vegan to keep things like that out of the house,” he says.
His son, now 12, is also a big help.
“He’s not into things like soda and cake and ice cream,” says Leonard.
But a big part of his success was the support from the Temple team and fellow patient support groups.
Dietitians like Michelle Conlon, coordinator of the Obesity Program, meet with patients one-on-one and in classes to prepare them for surgery and afterward.
“Never be judgmental, just listen and give strategies,” she said, adding, “try to break old habits, talk, and come up with alternatives.”
Psychologist Jeffrey Grand helps patients understand dietary issues and not lose the joy of special treats.
“Focus on four bites: one to say hello, two to enjoy, and one to say goodbye,” Dr. Grand says.
Now 200 pounds lighter, Leonard shares his experience with monthly support groups to help patients understand they are not alone.
He also encourages patients to follow expert advice on Temple Health’s support system.
“My nurses were huge. Helping me navigate this journey was huge,” says Leonard.
And Konron says he can’t have surgery until the patient is ready.
“It could mean three months, it could mean six months, it could mean a year. ,” she says.
Dr. Grand said the team is also there to help patients get back on track when weight loss plateaus about 18 months after surgery.