For those of you who weren’t able to stop by and see for yourself, the clothing exchange was a huge success! We had a great turnout with dozens of patients walking in to see the seminar room converted into a boutique complete with racks of clothes, chic decor and a personal stylist, then walking away with armfuls of clothes. We even had our own photographer who was also on hand to snap photos of patients “celebrity style.” Even more difficult to recognize than the seminar room, were some patients I hadn’t seen in a while because of their incredible transformations. It took me a moment to identify the mother/daughter team of Michele P. and Jayme P. who had their band surgery together the same day in August and have lost a combined total of about 100 lbs. I also ran into Tracy K. who said she felt as good as she looked. She has been a great example to her co-workers and I’m sure they appreciate having a resource like her to help them.
Tracy K. showing off her new figure
More so than how our patients’ outer appearances change, what is really satisfying to me is how their inner self-confidence changes as well. Patients become more active and confident in social situations like the clothing exchange. They were comfortable talking to the media and even being photographed as well! It has always been interesting to me that after weight loss surgery, rather than being very private, most patients go out of their way to share their experiences with others. We appreciate thosw who want to shout it from the rooftops as it helps in leading others to learn of the mental, health and physical benefits of weight loss surgery.
Thank you to everyone who donated clothing! To our patients who came to the exchange, it was GREAT catching up with you. Hope to see you again at the next Gastric Band Institute event.
–Dr. Darren Soong
Patient Pattie L. with her partner Chuck
Becky Hines showing off her fashion finds!
Me with patient Jessica B.
Tags: Bariatric Surgeons, Gastric Band, Gastric bypass, las vegas, Weight Loss Surgeons, Weight Loss Surgery
Fashion Stimulus: Patients Lose Weight, Not Dollars Gastric Band Institute of Las Vegas is GREAT and Lyndon Laurole was here! Bet you wish you were too.