"They saw me as a person at weight loss surgery"

I had a fantastic experience from people (a care team) who cared, saw me as a person and not as a morbidly obese type 2 diabetic patient.

My GP referred me to a local weight management clinic (at a local Leigh health Centre but provided by Aintree NHS) who saw me helped me one on one and in a group (I could opt of that if I didn’t want to mix). I saw dietian, physio and was supported to try to eat healthy and change my lifestyle rather than focus on losing weight. I was really physically unwell and not able to mobilise properly. I saw a consultant who spoke about the options open to me, one of which was weight loss surgery. After 6 more months and lots of thought and support I decided to opt for surgery. I was referred to Phoenix at Chester (Countess of Chester hospital). I saw a specialist team who again saw me a as a person who needed help and tools. They offered surgery which I accepted and within a few weeks they operated. I am now 7 stones lighter and looking towards having a second stage operation to lose the remaining weight. The staff were warm, compassionate and caring- they handed me back to my GP and the practice staff take an active interest in my progress and show support and care. I could not have had a better experience if I had paid for private treatment. I know there is a lot said about wasting money on overweight people, however it has helped me to get my life back, I am off all diabetic insulin injections, off all asthma medications. Hoping to be able to give up the sleep apnoea equipment and able to remain in work and be a more valuable contribution to society. The care I have had from local GPs at Foxleigh family surgery, to local hospital, and the Countess of Chester has been marvellous!