My Letter to Dr.Gaphrey
March 24, 2003
Dr. David Ghaphery, MD
RE: Gastric Bypass Surgery
My weight has always been a problem for me and has increased with every year. I have
tried many different diets, both on my own and under a physician's direction. I have had some
small success but always seem to gain the weight back plus. I am 28 years old and I want to have
a normal life. I want to have children and be able to play with those children. I want to be able to
take my dogs for a walk. I want to be able to walk through a store without my legs shaking and
my chest pounding. I want to be able to ride rides at a carnival and not have people stare at me
when I am out in public. I want to be able to wash my dishes without sitting in a chair in front of
the sink to do so. There is so much that I feel that I have to offer myself and for others but I feel
that my weight is a huge barrier. I am diabetic and I have high blood pressure. I know what is in
store for me ifI don't lose weight. I want to have a long full life, which I do not see as an option
if I do not take action soon. I understand that this is a serious surgery and have not thought on
the situation lightly. I have discussed the option with both friends and family, as well as my
fiance. I have a lot of love an support on my side. I have researched the surgery on the internet
as well as spoken with those who have had the surgery. I have three close friends that have had
the gastric bypass. One is a 58 year old woman who can finally work and come out of her home.
Another is a friend of mine that had lost over a hundred pounds and who is now going to be a
daddy after several years of trying. The third is a friend who has lost 130pounds. She has
shared a lot of information and books regarding the bypass and she has stated more than a few
times that she has lost a whole person from her body and she feels incredible. I understand the
risks of this surgery, but I also understand the risks of continuing the current course my health is
on. Facing the possibility of a Stroke, Heart Attack, Possible Amputation, Kidney Failure,
Possible Blindness, Circulatory Problems, these are all things that a 28 year old should not be
facing. I feel that the risks for my current lifestyle outweighs the risk of the surgery. I feel that
this surgery and the life changes that come with it will benefit me greatly, improving my health
and my life.
Sincerely,
Billie Lash
