I personally vouch that Paula is a compassionate and wonderful person, which shows in her writing. Having been a Registered Nurse for thirty years, she now has dedicated her career to helping the morbidly obese. In this book and in her presentations, she frequently recounts her own experiences and those of others who have had the surgery. Paula's own story is remarkable. Having been morbidly obese all her life, she loss 175 pounds from conventional "white knuckle" dieting only to gain it back. Having exhausted all her options, she courageously chose to have gastric bypass surgery. Why courageous? Because this was the same surgery that killed her sister when it was a pioneering procedure. After her surgery, she lost 185 lbs, has kept it off for over 5 years, looks wonderful and is having a happy life.
I love the practical and sensible advice her book provides for long-term success -- both in weight loss and in achieving life's goals. Paula wrote me that this book's original title was, "When the Hunger Returns." Much is being written about the procedure itself, but little has been written about what to expect and do AFTER the surgery. And, what has been written by others is often outright wrong or conflicting.
Weight loss surgery is not an answer in itself. It is a tool. Patients can regain much, if not all, their weight after undergoing this major surgical procedure. And, rarely addressed by others are the lifestyle changes needed to achieve long-term success. Many individuals in my Support Group have never developed their social skills after a lifetime of obesity. Food events, such as, holidays, celebrations and parties are perilous. Many are uncomfortable and feel awkward in social situations. Many think of themselves as still being fat even with their new body. Newfound sexual intimacy is often awkward. Some old relationships with others can be detrimental and undermine the progress because of their jealousy, resentment and/or insecurity over your new body. Paula sensibly addresses all these issues and many others.
I feel this book is an absolute must for weight loss surgery patients, potential patients, and support people, such as, loved ones, parents and friends. Paula has done us a great service by writing this book. I highly recommend it.