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My Journey Begins with an Incredible Experience... *
  • Name: David York
  • Age: 43
  • Surgery: Gastric Sleeve
  • Surgery date: July 27th, 2012
  • Testimonial date: August 5th, 2012
  • Surgeon: Dr. Mario Almanza
Hello – My name is David York; I’m 43 years old and I’m from Houston, Texas. My surgery date was Friday, July 27 2012. I had the gastric sleeve procedure performed by Dr. Mario Almanza. It’s been 8 days since surgery and I’ve already lost 22 pounds in this short time - I’m ecstatic!

My entire experience was incredible and I’m excited to share it with you...

I flew into San Diego the night before and was taken to Jerusalem Hospital the next morning. There were ten of us in my group, including my brother, Kevin York.

We were greeted by Dr. Bettencourt, who made us all feel very welcome and right at home. He was terrific, and genuinely concerned for the wellbeing of each one of us.

After onsite blood work and an EKG, we dressed in hospital gowns and waited in a comfortable waiting room for our turn. The surgeries were about an hour each and I went second to last – but the waiting time was well-spent, as I had the opportunity to bond with my new friends going through the same experience.

When Lupita came to get me I was nervous but determined, and as we approached the OR – both Dr. Bettencourt and Dr Almanza were standing there to personally greet me. Dr. Bettencourt gave me a hug and told me how happy he was for me. I knew I was in the best hands in the business with Dr. Almanza as my surgeon.

I laid on the operating table, answered a few questions, and the next thing I remember I was waking up in recovery. The surgery went great – no complications or problems. I was then taken to a room to rest (and sleep!) I shared the room with my brother, who had just come out of surgery before me. His was also problem free.

The next morning we were taken to the recovery house, where we received one-on-one medical attention from Edgar and Arturo. They were both great! They also made us feel very comfortable and right at home. The first couple of days there was quite a bit of discomfort from gas and there was pain from the surgery, naturally. But we received antibiotics and pain medication around the clock.

After an x-ray and passing our leak test, they took my brother and me back into San Diego where we went back to our hotel and spent the evening. The next morning we flew home.

I have to say – I was extremely impressed with Dr. Almanza and the entire staff of Jerusalem Hospital and would highly recommend anybody considering the gastric sleeve to choose this amazing team for their procedure and post-op care.

The fun part is the weight loss! Even though I had high expectations, nothing could have prepared me for the way I feel. I continue to be astonished at the fact I’m NEVER hungry. I have absolutely no physical or psychological cravings or desires to snack as I used to.

Prior to surgery I lived to eat. If I left the house for any reason it would always include a stop to Taco Bell or some fast food place. At home I snacked all the time and ate large portions at meal times. I loved going out to buffets. I loved food. And even when I would diet I’d feel deprived.

Now I’m still on just clear liquids and consuming extremely little and my satiety level is consistent and pleasant throughout the day. I don’t see other people in my household eating and, “wish I could be eating that too, but I can’t because I’m on a diet.” I literally have no desire to eat. And I’m very happy. Praise God!

Originally I had thought that because the size of my stomach was reduced by 80% that I just wouldn’t be able to eat as much as I used to and I’d just have to deal with it (still being unsatisfied and wishing I could eat more.) And I could have lived with that – no problem, as I’d still be losing weight. But what a tremendous blessing it has been to not have to deal with missing food. For me – this is the best part. It’s because the part of the stomach responsible for hunger and cravings was removed and for this I’m so grateful.

So thank you so very much for the kindness and professional medical care that you all showed me! Lupita, Dr. Bettencourt, Dr. Almanza, Dr. Hugo, Edgar, Arturo, our great shuttle drivers, and Larry, my fantastic coordinator – you all rock and I appreciate everything you did for me, my brother and my awesome new friends!

God bless you all!

Sincerely,
David York
Houston, Texas
    * This is an actual testimonial, however, your results may vary. For more information, please read our Testimonial Disclaimer and Risks of Surgery.
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