Struggling with her weight since adolescence, Sharon Abee knew something had to change when she needed a walker to help her get around. The 68-year-old tried countless times to shed the excess pounds over the years, but nothing ever seemed to work.

That’s when Abee decided to look into weight-loss surgery. Committing to the journey wasn’t something she took lightly.

“You have to be ready to do it. In your mind, you have to be ready,” Abee says. “It’s major surgery, and you have to make sure that your head’s in the right place, and you have a support system in place.”

Through Tidelands Health, patients who have weight-loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, are supported through every step of the process, from meeting with a dietitian and behavioral counselor to monthly support group meetings after surgery.

“We are committed to making sure you feel fully supported in your journey with us,” says Dr. Sara Shields Tarwater, a board-certified bariatric surgeon at Tidelands Health. “We understand obesity is a disease, and many people are unable to lose weight with diet and exercise alone. We are honored to give patients, just like Sharon, a chance at regaining their quality of life.”

Since undergoing gastric sleeve surgery at Tidelands Health in June 2023, Abee has lost 141 pounds and couldn’t be happier with her progress. She says the support she’s received from Tidelands Health has made this journey a positive experience.

“Tidelands Health was very good with the support they gave me,” the Georgetown County resident says. “It was a wonderful experience, as far as the support that I felt. The surgery’s tough, but Tidelands Health made it easier by knowing I could call the team if I needed anything.”

Beyond the physical transformation, Abee says it’s the non-scale victories, such as being able to cross her legs when sitting in a chair and other simple joys she’s missed, that have really made a difference.

“I felt a self-confidence that I hadn’t felt in a long, long time,” Abee says. “The other day I went to the pool and was actually able to get out of the pool. I hadn’t been able to go to the pool in four or five years, because I couldn’t get out.”

Whether you’re considering weight-loss surgery for yourself or a loved one, Tidelands Health stands ready to support your journey toward a healthier, happier you. Take the first step today by calling 1-866-TIDELANDS.