Hello my name Paul Heffner. I decided to change my life by improving myself.

I have always had a weight problem, even from an early age in life. I have always felt like I was the fat kid in the room and I did not want my children to feel that way so I decided to make a change. I made an appointment with Dr. Cywes. That appointment in February 2011 has changed my whole world.

I decided at my first step in Dr. Cywes’ office (weighing in at a whopping 417 lbs) that I was making a life changing commitment for myself and my family. I knew it wasn’t going to be easy, but I had the support of my wife, family and the office staff to help me follow the right path on this new journey in my life. I figured out that I was addicted carbs and more importantly, why. So I started to train myself to use other methods to deal with the roller coaster of life.

As I a waited for my surgery day to arrive, I learned so much about myself and what I was missing out on. My surgery day was on June 27, 2011, the same day as my beautiful wife. After doing some research I decided that the banded plication was the best option for me.

As of today I have lost 125lbs. I am able to do so much more now in my life. One of my biggest goals, even though it may sound simple, was to tie my shoes without holding my breath. They are centered on my shoe and not off to the side. Anyone who has ever had that issue knows what I mean. I am able to go outside and play with my kids without being out of breath within the first five minutes. I enjoy going to the movies now too. I actually fit in the seats!!!

I know my journey is not complete, but right now I’m trying to live life to the fullest, without regrets.