Patient reclaims his health with help of weight-loss surgery

John Crecco shares a lifelong passion for teaching and creating music. When he found himself unable to stand for long periods or play guitar due to swelling in his hands, he sought support from the bariatrics team at Putnam Hospital to reclaim his health.

 

In September, the Mahopac, NY, resident and a team of weight-loss specialists determined a gastric sleeve procedure, along with nutrition counseling, would help him reach a goal weight of 220 pounds and develop more balanced eating habits; something he found difficult as a band member who plays at special events.

“Before surgery, I weighed 321 pounds and had a hard time taking my wedding ring off,” Crecco said. “I knew if I wanted to gain the energy and confidence I once had, I had to lose weight and re-evaluate my relationship with food.”

Six months post-surgery, Crecco is down 71 pounds and has a new perspective – one that empowers him to pursue a 10-mile bike ride each day.

“I’ve given myself an extra 20 years to my life it feels like – I have more energy than ever before,” he said. “I am now only 20 pounds shy of meeting my goal weight.” 

Crecco adds that the hospital’s bariatric support group, which includes new and past weight-loss patients, brought fresh perspectives and empowering camaraderie throughout his weight-loss journey.

“You grow relationships here that inspire you, even on your bad days, to pursue much more beyond your health goals. Staying involved after surgery is one of the best decisions I made,” he added.

Learn more about weight-loss surgery at Putnam Hospital and our support group.