Weight Loss Before & After Testimonials

What was difficult, painful, or frustrating about your life before weight loss?

The most difficult part was coming to grips with the fact that I did this to myself. No one force-fed me or tricked me into being this way. There were choices and decisions I made to end up where I did, and it would be those same choices or decisions that would get me out of it. The frustration and shame of participating in physically strenuous activities, knowing I’d be the slow one or the out of shape one; the hatred I developed of summer months (I have not owned a pair of shorts in over 15 years); and the struggle of finding clothing that fit and looked decent all affected me. There was also a lurking shame that by being in poor health, I was letting down my kids, my family, and those that loved me. I wasn’t depressed or generally sad — quite the opposite. I was in generally good spirits and optimistic about the future in most aspects. But my weight was the proverbial albatross around my neck that kept dragging me down.

Why did you choose CENTRA Weight Loss Services for your bariatric care?

When I made the choice to investigate bariatric surgery, it just so happened to coincide with the Centra program starting to take off. You could say it was kismet. I attended one of Dr. Alley’s first seminars and immediately connected with his straightforward approach and utter professionalism. He laid out the causes, effects, options, and a plethora of additional info. He laid out a realistic roadmap of what it would take to run this race and reach the finish line successfully. Once I met the other members of his team, they were just as professional and supportive as he was. They supported and encouraged me every step of the way. I never felt alone or lost. I knew I had a team surrounding me who was invested in my success, and that was very encouraging.

What is something you’re most excited about or most proud of after losing weight?

I’m excited to know that, God willing, I will be around longer for my wife and daughters. I’m excited that I can now climb hills and mountains, go for runs, and exercise without feeling like I’m at death’s doorstep. I’m excited that I can now feel like I fit in my car’s seats instead of on top of them and that I no longer have to take a bouquet of medications to regulate my health. I’m proud of the new exercise and eating habits I’ve developed and hope to stick to them for the long run. I’m excited for a new lease on life.

Can you describe your comfort with the quality of care and the people caring for you, before, during, and after your surgery?

Top to bottom, my experience was phenomenal! Linsey and Amy were amazing. Dr. Alley was a pleasure to work with; every Centra employee I encountered at every step in the process (even the lady in the patient accounts office) was supportive and encouraging. As I stated earlier, I was supported before, during, and following the process. This made me confident in my ability to go through this procedure and come out better on the other side.

What is the one thing you would share with someone who is just thinking about weight loss surgery for the first time?

Do your research. Educate yourself and don’t rush into it. This is an experience that will require 100% commitment. It is not something to enter into emotionally or half‐heartedly. But if you can make the commitment, if you can dig deep and dig in for the long run, the results and payoff are well worth it.

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery? 
Watch our Seminar to get started today!

What was difficult, painful, or frustrating about your life before weight loss?

Before losing weight, I had a good life – a great job, a fantastic husband, son, and family, and a life that was blessed. I can’t say I was miserable, because I wasn’t. However, I was concerned because even though I had lost hundreds of pounds over the course of my life, I could never keep it off. It always came back!

I was very concerned about whether I would be alive to see my son get married and have children. I had developed hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and was well on my way to diabetes. I was engaged in life – I traveled and did almost anything that I wanted to. However, the larger that I got, the more difficult it became to enjoy the things that I loved to do.

Amusement parks became challenging, as I didn’t fit well into some of the rides. Flying was difficult because the seats are so small; I hated the looks that I got when I sat down – knowing the person beside me was thinking that they hated that they would be smooshed against me for the whole flight. At the beach, I felt very self-conscious about being in a swimsuit, and I always had to be conscious about the beach chair that I purchased – not all beach chairs are made to hold large folks! My weight was holding me back from being able to fully and completely engage in life without reservation.

Why did you choose CENTRA Weight Loss Services for your bariatric care?

I chose Centra Weight Loss services after talking with a friend who had weight loss surgery with Dr. Alley and had great results. I have trusted Centra with my healthcare for a long time, and this is no different! I researched Dr. Alley and was impressed by his training. From the seminar to the first visit, the care that I experienced was fantastic. I also attended several support groups and talked with his patients and everyone was so positive about their experiences that it solidified my decision to choose Dr. Alley as my surgeon.

What is something you’re most excited about or most proud of after losing weight?

I often find myself being taken aback when walking past a glass storefront; I am shocked at the person who is reflected back at me. Sometimes, I don’t even recognize myself. I love it! I flew for the first time recently and had plenty of extra room in the seat, and I could even cross my legs without invading anyone’s space! I feel just like a normal person now, and that’s fantastic. Someone asked me recently how I was handling all of the changes that come along with life after weight loss surgery (I have given up sugar, most processed foods, and all alcohol). My reply was, “Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels.” I believe that 100 percent.

Can you describe your comfort with the quality of care and the people caring for you, before, during, and after your surgery?

Dr. Alley and his whole team led me to be confident in their ability to help me. I always felt that they had my best interests at heart. That kind of reassurance is priceless. Dr. Alley, Rachel, Amy, Emily, Lindsey, and Diane are all fantastic. They were with me each and every step of the way.  When I had a question, a concern, or needed anything they were they to help. They never made me feel like I was a burden, like my question was silly, or that I wasn’t going to be successful. My outcome has been excellent, simply because of the quality care that I received from this group of professionals.

What is the one thing you would share with someone who is just thinking about weight loss surgery for the first time?

Do it. Don’t wait. Don’t focus on what you are giving up or what you have to change – focus on what you are getting, your life back! Your life will be so much better for having had weight loss surgery.

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery? 
Watch our Seminar to get started today!

What was difficult, painful, or frustrating about your life before weight loss?

Everything in my life was getting harder to accomplish. From my everyday routines like getting dressed was difficult. I had sleep apnea and it was getting hard to get the rest my body needed. I coach sports and it was hard to demonstrate to the kids what they needed to do.

Why did you choose CENTRA Weight Loss Services for your bariatric care?

I chose Centra Weight Loss because I had heard from a few friends that they had a great experience. After I did my research on Dr. Alley and went to the informational meeting I decided that Centra Weight Loss was a great choice.

What is something you’re most excited about or most proud of after losing weight?

I really enjoy being able to move around with the kids at practice, being able to get involved in the plays and not get winded so easily. On a medical note, I have completely gotten rid of the sleep apnea, my diabetic numbers are all back to normal.

Can you describe your comfort with the quality of care and the people caring for you, before, during, and after your surgery?

I really enjoyed the whole process. Everyone was kind and caring. I never felt ashamed of myself. They also provided the push I needed when my habits started slacking. They are always there for you if you need help with better options and they provide wonderful advice.

What is one thing you would share with someone who is thinking about weight loss surgery? 

We all have our own reasons for wanting the surgery but once you decide that you need an extra tool to fulfill your goals, Dr. Alley and the rest of the team are a wonderful resource to help you and prepare you for everything. It was the best decision I have made when it comes to my weight loss goals. Remember that you need to do this for yourself, more than anything.

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery? 
Watch our Seminar to get started today! 

What was difficult, painful, or frustrating about your life before weight loss?

Before weight loss surgery, everyday life was generally painless for me. Even at my heaviest weight, I was still relatively active and able to participate in most activities without difficulty. The real frustration came when I would travel. I love traveling and all the experiences that go along with it but I when I realized my weight was causing me to struggle with simple things, like being able to buckle an airplane seatbelt, fitting into rides at amusement parks, or walking around touring cities without being out of breath, I knew something needed to change.

Why did you choose CENTRA Weight Loss Services for your bariatric care?

I had tried many times to lose weight and while I would usually experience immediate weight loss success, it was always short-lived. I became the classic yo-yo dieter. I could lose 40 lbs on a diet plan or 50 pounds on an exercise program but, ultimately, I would gain back all the weight I had lost and even more. It just seemed that no matter how successful I was with losing the weight, I was unable to keep it off and I watched this pattern cause my weight to balloon out of control. This is when I decided to start researching weight loss surgery. Being a nurse on the Surgical Unit at Centra, I had worked directly with Dr. Alley and witnessed first-hand the successful outcomes for his bariatric patients. After about 2 years being directly involved with his patients, I decided it was my turn and I finally made my first appointment with Dr. Alley. The passion, care and commitment that Dr. Alley provides to all of his patients, as well as the positive outcomes, helped make this decision for me an easy one. 

What is something you’re most excited about or most proud of after losing weight?

The biggest success for me and the thing I'm most proud of since my weight loss is my level of newfound confidence! I no longer fear failure due to my excessive weight and I finally have the confidence to do anything and everything I set my mind to. Recently, I started an activity that I would have never done at 305 lbs.......rock climbing. I showed up and didn't think twice about getting on those walls and giving it my all. I never once thought about what people around me might be thinking. I just jumped right in, conquered that wall and had a great time doing it! I was also able to sit comfortably in an airplane seat for a 5 hour flight. This was something I had not experienced since childhood, so I was pretty excited about that. 

Can you describe your comfort with the quality of care and the people caring for you, before, during, and after your surgery?

I tell anyone and everyone who will listen, just how amazing I find Dr. Alley and his staff! The support and encouragement they provide their patients throughout the entire process is unsurpassed! From Tia, the sweet and spunky receptionist, to Amy, the world's most compassionate dietician, and every person in between! I truly believe they have been one of the biggest reasons that I have been so successful in my weight loss journey!  They gave clear guidelines throughout the entire process so there was never any question what was expected of you. I cannot thank Dr Alley, Rachel, Amy, Emily, Lapetra, Tia, and Diane enough for all their hard work and dedication that began on my first office visit and continues to this day!

What is one thing you would share with someone who is thinking about weight loss surgery? 

Do your research, talk with some people that have had weight loss surgery, and then give Dr. Alley's office a call! It won't be easy, but it will most definitely be worth it! Having weight loss surgery was the best decision I have ever made and I'm confident it will be for you too!

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery? 
Watch our Seminar to get started today! 

What was difficult, painful, or frustrating about your life before weight loss?

Before weight loss I was unable to enjoy doing things I enjoy such as hunting and hiking with my husband. I had painful joints which made daily activities hard to do. Clothes shopping was very frustrating due to a limited availability of clothes in my size.

Why did you choose CENTRA Weight Loss Services for your bariatric care?

I chose Centra Weight Loss for my care because being a Centra employee and living in Lynchburg, it made the most sense for me to use our providers. After researching procedures and talking to people I knew that had the surgery too, I was very confident Dr. Alley and his team were the right choice!

What is something you’re most excited about or most proud of after losing weight?

I am now able to enjoy life. I can do things that I would have never been able to do before. I completed my first 5k only 4 months post-op. I no longer have to buy plus size clothes. In December I will be celebrating my 25th wedding anniversary with a vow renewal in the Caribbean and I will be doing this in a beautiful wedding dress that 1 year and 90 pounds ago I would not be wearing.

Can you describe your comfort with the quality of care and the people caring for you, before, during, and after your surgery?

I was and still am 1000% comfortable with the quality of care I have received from everyone at Centra Weight Loss since the day I made the call to make my very first appointment. Everyone is very knowledgeable about the surgery and made all my worries and issues vanish.

What is one thing you would share with someone who is thinking about weight loss surgery? 

If you are considering surgery and are a candidate I would say do it. It is life changing. The only regret I have is I wish I would have done it sooner. My life now is far better than ever and it's only going to get better from there and so can yours!

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery? 
Watch our Seminar to get started today!

What was difficult, painful, or frustrating about your life before weight loss?

Many others experience the same pain and frustration as I did, but at times I felt I was truly the only one in the world experiencing the negative side effects of all the extra weight. Being overweight, which escalated to morbidly obese and playing the yo-yo diet lifestyle since preteen finally was taking a toll on my body both physically and emotionally. I knew I had no other choice, but surgery. The simple things such as walking any distance, being extremely overheated ALL the time (sweating continuously), and tie shoes was so hard! The pain my joints felt from the extra weight was non-stop no matter if physically moving or simply resting. The most frustrating part for me looking back is the experiences and missed opportunities with my family that I will not be able to get back, but now we are able to make new memories with new adventures. Also, the stereotype that people have that you should just eat less, exercise more and magically you lose weight, was one of the most frustrating and maddening things I experienced both from society and some in the medical field. 

Why did you choose CENTRA Weight Loss Services for your bariatric care?

I spent 5 years researching surgeons and different surgery options across East Coast. My biggest roadblock I was faced with my health insurance did not cover WLS, so my options were very limited. That all changed in fall of 2016, our insurance was to start covering bariatric procedures in 2017, I knew it was meant to be! After all my research I knew without a doubt that I was meant to see Dr. Alley. But, the deciding factor was the first call I made to the office and Tia made me feel so comfortable as if we had known each other forever. 

What is something you’re most excited about or most proud of after losing weight?

Wow…one or two things, there are so many! But the thing I feel I have accomplished more than anything is showing my daughters you can do anything you put your mind to! 

Second thing is my overall feeling…as I have said to many, unless you have been extremely morbidly obese you have no way to know how it feels. Now I feel awake, energized and ready to conquer all the new things I was never able to do being obese.  

Another amazing feeling is being able to share my experience with others and to hear someone tell me that they look to me as encouragement, never in my wildest dreams would I have ever imagined that!

Can you describe your comfort with the quality of care and the people caring for you, before, during, and after your surgery?

AMAZING! There are not enough positive things I can say about my entire experience with the entire staff at CENTRA Weight Loss office!  I never once felt like just a patient, but rather a friend. Even the waiting room was always a pleasure, sharing stories and where in our journeys we were and seeing each other during the changes. Again…AMAZING!

What is one thing you would share with someone who is thinking about weight loss surgery? 

Have a strong support system!!!! It does not have to be in the medical field, although being able to ask the needed questions and even the silliest to us, are very important. But, knowing I had support from all my family before, during and on-going (could not have done it without them) friends, and the bariatric community. But, also knowing at anytime I had the amazing staff at Centra Weight Loss I could reach out to was amazing. So, yes, the one thing I cannot stress enough is a support system.

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery? 
Watch our Seminar to get started today!

What was difficult, painful, or frustrating about your life before weight loss?

I was always tired. I never wanted to do anything. I was depressed and hated myself. I felt like a terrible mother because I couldn’t do things with my children.

Why did you choose CENTRA Weight Loss Services for your bariatric care?

I was excited to learn that Centra had opened this clinic because I had been prepared to drive out of town for care.

What is something you’re most excited about or most proud of after losing weight?

My children have to work to keep up with me now! My life has changed in more ways than I can put into words. But here are the most important: 1. I don’t hate what I see in the mirror and 2. I have confidence in myself because I did something hard, but I DID IT!

Can you describe your comfort with the quality of care and the people caring for you, before, during, and after your surgery?

The people at this practice have truly become my friends. I trust them with my care 100% and I know that they care about me as a patient and as a person.

What is the one thing you would share with someone who is just thinking about weight loss surgery for the first time?

 No matter the complications or issues I have had, I would do it all over again in a heartbeat. Every pain, every frustration, every moment of wondering if I could really do it has been worth it in the end.

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery? 
Watch our Seminar to get started today!

What was difficult, painful, or frustrating about your life before weight loss?

Before surgery – my weight held me back from playing with my grandbabies, I was too tired to participate in family activities.  I didn’t want to do anything other than go to work and then come home and sleep.  I was beyond frustrated with how I felt all day hurting in my joints and body.

Why did you choose CENTRA Weight Loss Services for your bariatric care?

I heard Dr. Alley talk at our BMH General Staff Meeting and knew this was something I would like to explore.  I then signed up for his seminar with the help of my NP.  I liked that he was very personable. Helped me realize I wasn’t in this alone, I had a great support system behind me every step of the way.

What is something you’re most excited about or most proud of after losing weight?

I am such a different person now.  I like that I am able to play with my girls, stay up late and watch movies without falling asleep.  I am excited that I can now shop in the “regular sized people” stores and not wearing plus sized clothes.  I haven’t been this size since before I graduated from high school 25 years ago.

Can you describe your comfort with the quality of care and the people caring for you, before, during, and after your surgery?

I really liked how the team was there to answer any questions I had at all points in my journey.  It’s nice to have a caring team, it felt like family.

What is one thing you would share with someone who is thinking about weight loss surgery? 

You need to be mentally ready for what your body is going to go through.  You need to keep remembering that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.  You also have to accept yourself for who you are and have understanding for your faults.  In that I mean, you may fall, you just get back up and keep on trying.  We are all in this together.

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery? 
Watch our Seminar to get started today!

What was difficult, painful, or frustrating about your life before weight loss?

Before my surgery, my weight kept me from allowing myself to be happy and active. I was always self-conscious and negative about how I looked, and it drove me further and further into my introverted lifestyle. It also kept me from enjoying life with my daughter. When she wanted to go outside to play, I was always “too tired” or “I didn’t have anything to wear” when she wanted to go to the park.

Why did you choose CENTRA Weight Loss Services for your bariatric care?

After researching bariatric surgery, I started looking at Centra, spent days reading the testimonials online, and watching Dr. Alley’s educational video. I was immediately comfortable with the idea and there were so many positive reviews about the program that I knew it would be the right decision.

What is something you’re most excited about or most proud of after losing weight?

After losing the weight I have to say I am most proud of the way that I work out. I never pictured myself enjoying the gym. Before surgery, every time that I would try to work out or jog, I’d end up with shin splints after the first workout and it was extremely discouraging going through that pain and not being able to keep the results after a few months. Now, I can get on the treadmill every day without any pain. I am also proud of the fact that I passed my weight loss goals faster than I expected. The fact that I can comfortably shop in stores now because of the weight loss is just the icing on the cake.

Can you describe your comfort with the quality of care and the people caring for you, before, during, and after your surgery?

I’d have to say the quality of care is the one thing that stood out the most to me. I loved how I was with the same set of people at every appointment. Being passed around to different nurses/doctors is the reason why I used to avoid going to the doctor whenever something was wrong. Centra Weight Loss services is the opposite of that. The amount of care and education we receive is amazing and it really allows you to go home with all the tools you need to be successful. You are with Dr. Alley and his team every step of the way and even after surgery and the plans they have in place keep you from failing, as long as you follow their guidance.

What is one thing you would share with someone who is thinking about weight loss surgery? 

If you have been struggling with your weight and think that surgery is for you, just go for it. If you are worried about what other people will think or that you won’t be supported by the people around you, put all of that aside. This team will be there for you every step of the way and you are going to meet some of the best individuals that will cheer you on every day. I think every person I have spoken to has said they wish they had done this sooner and trust me you’re going to say the same just like I did.            

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery? 
Watch our Seminar to get started today!

What was difficult, painful, or frustrating about your life before weight loss?

Low energy, achy body/joint, no desire to vacation or be out with my family, low drive on life. 

Why did you choose CENTRA Weight Loss Services for your bariatric care?

I've tried many other 'tools' in the past. Did research, trusted the staff and moved forward with this 'tool'. 

What is something you’re most excited about or most proud of after losing weight?

So much energy, more confidence, fit on roller coasters, not driven by food. 

Can you describe your comfort with the quality of care and the people caring for you, before, during, and after your surgery?

Quality of care, support and professionalism, by far was the greatest. This team made the entire process manageable.

What is one thing you would share with someone who is thinking about weight loss surgery? 

Run and have it done. Don't walk! Be FULLY committed with no excuses.

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery? 
Watch our Seminar to get started today!

What was difficult, painful, or frustrating about your life before weight loss?

I have had difficulty losing weight and keeping the weight off my entire adult life. I have tried every diet/trick to lose the weight and was successful for short periods of time. So, I knew I needed help. Sex with my husband was a chore and became a barrier to a healthy sex life.  Activity and any kind of exercise was difficult to say the least. I had constant back and knee pain. Looking in the mirror was most painful because I saw a person I did not want to be.

Why did you choose CENTRA Weight Loss Services for your bariatric care?

I was researching weight loss surgery options when I stumbled across the 45 minute video from Dr. Alley’s office. I really liked that fact that the video spoke about it being one of the tools in the lifelong commitment to weight loss. Dr. Alley and staff are very thorough in explaining surgery alone is not a miracle cure to obesity. Healthy eating habits and exercise are also a must. As I embarked upon the journey, I knew without a doubt that I wanted the CENTRA Weight Loss team to meet my bariatric needs.

What is something you’re most excited about or most proud of after losing weight?

So far, I have gone from a size 18/20 to a size 10. Physically, I can do more without becoming winded. I started out by trying to walk a quarter of a mile but had to stop several times to catch my breath. I am now jogging/walking 3 plus miles without having to stop to catch my breath. I most recently started a Fit Body Boot Camp to incorporate more strength training with my cardio workouts. Most of all I am excited because I feel amazing and so much healthier.

Can you describe your comfort with the quality of care and the people caring for you, before, during, and after your surgery?

Dr. Alley and team are the best. From my initial visit to present day (9 1/2 months post-op), they relieved any anxieties I had about having surgery. The team is very supportive and encouraging during pre and post operation. I also can’t forget that I have an amazing husband that is and continues to be my cheerleader.

What is one thing you would share with someone who is thinking about weight loss surgery? 

I would share that I have no regrets whatsoever in my decision to have the surgery. My only regret is that I didn’t do it sooner.

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery? 
Watch our Seminar to get started today!

What was difficult, painful, or frustrating about your life before weight loss?

I was tired of being tired. I just could not be as active as I once was. I hated the fact that my daughter was not able to see me at my best. I was always a very active person and to not be able to be that person really upset me.

Why did you choose CENTRA Weight Loss Services for your bariatric care?

Convenience. Having a facility right here in the southern part of the Virginia is a huge  convenience. Then when you add in the reviews of Dr. Alley and his team, it was an easy decision.

What is something you’re most excited about or most proud of after losing weight?

1. Having energy to do things. I love to workout in the gym and lifting weights and it feels amazing to be able to do that again. 2. Going on vacations and being able to do whatever I want to do. Walking all day long around amusement parks is no longer a struggle. I can drive a long distance and actually be able to get out of the car and still walk.

Can you describe your comfort with the quality of care and the people caring for you, before, during, and after your surgery?

The entire process from my very first visit to see the team was amazing. The team there really cares about you, and they want you to succeed. Each visit they would check on your progress and support you even if you were getting frustrated and they were always ready to answer any questions you had.

What is one thing you would share with someone who is thinking about weight loss surgery? 

Don’t wait. Listen to your body. If you are thinking about it, then you have already made the decision. You may have people who love you ask you why you want to have the surgery. Most of them are just concerned for your health and wellbeing. You need to remind them that you are having the surgery for your health and wellbeing and the surgery is a tool to help you reach that goal. You need to do what is right for you.

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery? 
Watch our Seminar to get started today!

Share what was difficult, painful, or frustrating about your life before weight loss?

Everything in my life was a struggle. I had pain daily in my knees and lower back. I was miserable emotionally and physically. Mentally I felt like I was fine but in my heart I knew I was not. I gained 30 pounds when Covid started and that put  me at my highest weight ever. I had gone from 299, where I had been for 20 years to 330. I knew I had to fix me or lose me. 

Tell why you chose CENTRA Weight Loss for your bariatric care?

I chose Centra for my weight loss for a variety of reasons. Centra is the home base of my PCP. I wanted to stay in the network so my PCP and Weight Loss team could communicate. I also wanted somewhere close to me. I read about Dr. Alley and I knew this was the place for my journey to happen. 

Share one or two of the things you’re most excited about or most proud of after losing weight (not just # of pounds, but how you feel, what you can do, achievements)?

I can interact with my class without losing my breath. I can walk on field trips and not have to ask them to stop because I need to catch my breath. I walk and enjoy the outdoors now more than I ever have in my life. I am the most proud of inspiring my oldest daughter to start her own weight loss journey. 

Talk about your comfort with the quality of care and the people caring for you, before, during, and after your surgery?

My weight loss team has been amazing from the desk clerk that checks you in all the way to the lab techs that did my blood work and everyone in between. I have no complaints. Everyone was beyond reproach and I could not be any happier. I felt loved and cared for. I still feel like a member of the weight loss clinic’s family. Everyone is very friendly and genuinely concerned with your success. Dr. Alley, Rachel, Jodi, and Emily always made me feel so special at all of my appointments. Before and after surgery. I never felt like a number and I never felt like a burden. The hospital staff was amazing as well. I was treated very well and felt like all information was clearly and well written for my understanding.  

What is the one thing you would share with someone who is just thinking about weight loss surgery for the first time?

Do it! If you are considering it, this is your opportunity to get on that train and ride it. Do it with a clear mind and an open heart. Nothing about it is easy and do not let people tell you that it is. Nothing worth having is easy though. Everything in life is a journey and a process to attain. If you want to earn a degree in something, it takes a while to earn that degree. This is no different. There needs to be a complete understanding in your  mind and heart that you will have to work for this to happen. There is no magic pill and changes are permanent. If I can do it, so can you! 

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery? 
Watch our Seminar to get started today!

Share what was difficult, painful, or frustrating about your life before weight loss?

Before my weight loss, I suffered with a lot of health issues that affected my ability to do everyday things. I would get out of breath just walking up the stairs or doing household tasks. I had always tried to diet in the past but would just end up gaining the weight right back. I felt like I did not have the freedom to do the things I wanted to.   

Tell why you chose CENTRA Weight Loss for your bariatric care?

I have had good experiences with Centra in the past and I heard great things online and from others about Dr. Alley and the weight loss team. 

Share one or two of the things you’re most excited about or most proud of after losing weight (not just # of pounds, but how you feel, what you can do, achievements)?

I was very excited to go shopping and get into new clothes that fit and felt better. I love that I am now able to share clothes with my daughter. The thing I am most excited about and proud of is that I am a healthier version of myself and I was able to go from taking 22 pills daily to now 5 pills daily. The weight loss is great but having my health and being able to do things I wasn’t able to before is by far the best part.  

Talk about your comfort with the quality of care and the people caring for you, before, during, and after your surgery?

I was very comfortable with the care I received. I felt well taken care of during my surgery and I felt like I got lots of very helpful information before and after my surgery in order to know how to care for myself when I got home and in the days following. 

What is the one thing you would share with someone who is just thinking about weight loss surgery for the first time?

I think it is the best thing in the world. My only regret is that I didn’t do it sooner. I would highly recommend it to anyone! 

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery? 
Watch our Seminar to get started today!

Share what was difficult, painful, or frustrating about your life before weight loss?

Before weight loss, I dealt with pain in my ankle and knee. It was very difficult to get out and play or spend time with my kids. My four sons play soccer, baseball, as well as all of them being active in Boy Scouts. Because of this, I played these sports with them and would go on hikes but would not be able to do these for long periods. Frustrating doesn't describe the feelings that I felt. 

Tell why you chose CENTRA Weight Loss for your bariatric care?

I chose Centra Weight Loss for my bariatric care because of a recommendation from my primary care physician. I then researched the program and Dr. Alley and was impressed. 

Share one or two of the things you’re most excited about or most proud of after losing weight (not just # of pounds, but how you feel, what you can do, achievements)?

Since having surgery, I met several goals that I set for myself: 

1) I can run and play with my kids.

2) I can fit into clothes that haven't been an option for over 20 years. 

3) I passed physical requirements to be a firefighter (at 40 years old) I feel like I'm 18 again!!!

Most importantly, I feel like I have more time now to spend with my wife and children. 

Talk about your comfort with the quality of care and the people caring for you, before, during, and after your surgery?

The care that Dr. Alley and his team provided me before, during and after has been nothing short of outstanding. 

What is the one thing you would share with someone who is just thinking about weight loss surgery for the first time?

It is totally worth it!

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery? 
Watch our Seminar to get started today!

Share what was difficult, painful, or frustrating about your life before weight loss?

Before weight loss, it was difficult to do daily tasks like walking upstairs, tying my shoes and household chores without getting out of breath. I also suffered with knee pain before weight loss. I was frustrated that I couldn't be as active of a mom as I wanted to be. 

Tell why you chose CENTRA Weight Loss for your bariatric care?

My husband's primary care physician recommended that he check into Centra's program as she had heard great things. After meeting Dr. Alley and his staff, it was clear that he was a highly skilled surgeon but also very personable. I have never felt ashamed or put off at any time through the process. They are really a great team who cares about the patient. 

Share one or two of the things you’re most excited about or most proud of after losing weight (not just # of pounds, but how you feel, what you can do, achievements)?

I love that I am able to ride roller coasters without having to worry that I won't fit. And I can walk around the whole theme park without getting too tired. I am proud that I can now be the mom I always wanted to be, running around with my boys in the yard. 

Talk about your comfort with the quality of care and the people caring for you, before, during, and after your surgery?

The quality of care that my husband and I both received was outstanding. I tell anyone that asks about the program how knowledgeable and caring the staff are. Most of the staff have also had weight loss surgery so they can personally relate to what you are going through. 

What is the one thing you would share with someone who is just thinking about weight loss surgery for the first time?

My only regret is that I didn't do it sooner. It's not easy, but it is so worth it! 

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery? 
Watch our Seminar to get started today!

Share what was difficult, painful, or frustrating about your life before weight loss?

My problem was sitting for a long period of time. Then I would get up and have a hard time walking due to knee and joint pain and also became short of breath when walking down the hallway. I have tried multiple diets and pills for weight loss with little or no success. 

Tell why you chose CENTRA Weight Loss for your bariatric care?

I wanted to change my life and become a better person and get healthy. I also wanted to exercise more and acquire better eating habits. I also needed this program to help my mental state suffering with depression and obesity. 

Share one or two of the things you’re most excited about or most proud of after losing weight (not just # of pounds, but how you feel, what you can do, achievements)?

I feel the best than I have ever felt for the past 15-20 years. I have more energy to take my dogs walking and ride my exercise bike and lift weights daily. I love the way my clothes feel and enjoy looking in the mirror at how far I have come since my surgery. 

Talk about your comfort with the quality of care and the people caring for you, before, during, and after your surgery?

Dr. Alley and his team are dedicated and were very supportive during my journey. The staff prepares you for the journey mentally and physically and sticks beside you the whole way. They answer any questions you may have and they are very committed to helping you succeed. Love these guys!!

What is the one thing you would share with someone who is just thinking about weight loss surgery for the first time?

I would tell them that it is life-changing and that you have to be very determined and dedicated to make the lifestyle changes you want to make, you have to stay focused mentally, physically and spiritually. If you do what the staff tells you to do then you will succeed!

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery? 
Watch our Seminar to get started today!

Share what was difficult, painful, or frustrating about your life before weight loss?

Before surgery I was always self conscious, always in the back, always the quiet one. I've done the walk of shame at amusement parks and having to use the extender belt when flying. I was always tired and hiding in my house. 

Tell why you chose CENTRA Weight Loss for your bariatric care?

Working in healthcare, I've looked into different programs in Roanoke and Charlottesville. In 2016 I came to work for Centra. After losing my dad at age 68 and my mom at age 67, I took a really hard look at myself and decided I did not want my children to bury their mom before age 50. 

Share one or two of the things you’re most excited about or most proud of after losing weight (not just # of pounds, but how you feel, what you can do, achievements)?

Wow, what can I say? I have confidence now that I never had before surgery. I enjoy photos, I've completed several 5k's and I can run with my grandbabies and keep up with them!

Talk about your comfort with the quality of care and the people caring for you, before, during, and after your surgery?

I can't say enough good things about Dr. Alley! He is amazing and really cares about his patients and this program. It shows in the quality of care that his patients receive. 

What is the one thing you would share with someone who is just thinking about weight loss surgery for the first time?

Do it! Take pictures of your journey. Focus on what you will be gaining, not what you will be giving up. When you have days wondering if you have made the right decisions, look back at what you couldn't do before surgery and all you have gained with surgery!

Are you thinking about weight loss surgery? 
Watch our Seminar to get started today!