JoDonna Beaupre-Boisvert

After weighing over 345 pounds for years JoDonna Beaupre-Boisvert of Kankakee not only suffered from obesity and knee pain, she rarely wanted to do much socially due to her lack of endurance. However after losing 210 pounds in 24 months as a result of her weight loss surgery at Silver Cross Hospital, JoDonna’s prior health issues no longer exist enabling her to be motivated to live her life to the fullest. 

“I have a huge desire to do more socially,” said the 52-year-old. “When I was overweight, I would hesitate going to the movies in fear of not fitting into the theater seats. But now, I have more energy. I even played basketball with some of my “nieces” at a family reunion!” 

After researching quality weight loss programs, JoDonna decided to attend BMI Surgery’s free informational session.  “I was so impressed with Dr. Christopher Joyce’s motivating presentation. He immediately peaked my interest to have the weight loss surgery and follow the program. After talking with Dr. Joyce and his staff at BMI Surgery, I felt so comfortable because they were all so knowledgeable,” states JoDonna. With their support, along with encouragement from her family and friends, JoDonna committed to the workout and diet plan and underwent gastric bypass weight loss surgery on August 29, 2011. 

The key to her success was adhering to the nutrition and exercise plan, as well as finding others who had similar experience maintaining their weight loss. “I now prepare sugar-free recipes, practice portion control and slow down the pace when I eat my meals,” said JoDonna. “I also found great encouragement through BMI Surgery’s support group and other on-line support groups. It is very motivating to learn what works for others.” 

“Before I had my surgery, Dr. Joyce explained that the surgery was merely a tool to lose weight and the real success depended on me making lifestyle and behavioral changes,” stated JoDonna. “Through the entire process, Dr. Joyce and his staff were always supportive and truly excited for my success. And they took the time to know me as a person, which made me feel valued. Also the nurses at Silver Cross Hospital were fantastic during my surgery and hospital stay. They always asked if I needed anything and a couple nurses, who also had weight loss surgery, offered advice to what helped them keep their weight off.”