Profile: Tabetha Perkins
Last updated: 11/03/2006
Tabetha Perkins, before and after surgery.
Tabetha Perkins wasn't plagued with many of the health problems that affect seriously overweight people, but she knew it was just a matter of time.
"I didn't have diabetes or high blood pressure, but I was starting to get arthritis in my knees, and I had acid reflux, too. With two children to care for, I didn't want any more health problems."
By the time she was 34, Tabetha had tried many different weight-loss approaches on her own, but without success. She decided to investigate weight-loss surgery.
"I found the education and support group very informative," she said. "They explained the risks and the benefits right up front. It was interesting to talk to people who have already had the surgery, so you can learn what to expect."
That would be Tabetha's advice for anyone considering weight-loss surgery.
"Learn as much as you can about the surgery before deciding," she recommends. "Do your research. Know what you're getting into, and when you make the decision, make sure you're doing it for yourself, and not someone else."
"I'd also like to say how much I appreciate Dr. Nease and his staff," she said. "They really care about you as a person as well as a patient."
So far, Tabetha has gone from 330 pounds to 195 pounds.
"My life has changed so much," she said. "I've gone from sitting back and watching what other people do to participating in life, and I'm really enjoying myself!"