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Northome Woman Overcomes Health Issues with Surgery at DRHC
Rae Birch, who lives near Northome, MN, had always struggled to control her weight, but after retirement, her fight got more difficult. "Your life really changes when you retire," she explained.
Pondering her options, Birch sought medical advice. Her doctor in Blackduck advised against the risks associated with invasive gastric bypass surgery. ThatŐs when she discovered a surgical treatment for obesity, called LAP-BAND, that's been helping thousands of people across the country overcome their health issues and lose unhealthy weight. The surgery is performed at Deer River HealthCare Center (DRHC).
"I went to a free seminar and met Dr. Margo," said Birch. "Then I told my doctor in Blackduck about the LAP-BAND weight loss surgery and gave her all the information from DRHC. After my doctor took the materials home to read, she told me I was a good candidate for the procedure."
Locally renowned surgeon, Dr. Daniel Margo, discusses the LAP-BAND surgical technique at seminars held around the region or by clinic appointment with a referral from your doctor. "The beauty of the LAP-BAND System is that it is safe, adjustable and reversible," said Margo. "With this minimally invasive approach, we believe patients will experience reduced pain, trauma, and recovery periods, as well as sustained, healthy weight loss."
According to Allergan Health, LAP-BAND is the preferred choice for the surgical treatment of obesity. Deer River HealthCare Center's Bariatric Program has been treating patients with the LAP-BAND system since 2003 and remains the only hospital in the region to offer this technique, along with a supportive and educational team approach. About 200 patients are currently enrolled in DRHC's LAP-BAND program who have either already had the surgery or are preparing for it.
Birch had her LAP-BAND surgery at DRHC in December 2005 and has since lost over 85 pounds, which is within 5 pounds of her goal weight. She's down to a size12. She says she feels like a new person.
"At 69 years old, I didn't want to go through the rest of my years being obese," Birch explained. "I am so pleased with the results. It doesnŐt happen over night, but it happens. I've been losing an average of 7-10 pounds per month. Now, I feel great-and I'm off all my medications for cholesterol."
The next LAP-BAND seminar is scheduled at the Cass Lake Casino, Cass Lake, MN, on January 25th at 6:00 p.m. The event is free, walk-ins are welcome. For more information, contact Dawn or Sheila: 218-246-3006 or 3086.
ABOUT DEER RIVER HEALTHCARE CENTER
Deer River HealthCare Center, Inc. (DRHC) is a non-profit community owned and operated comprehensive health care campus. Located in Deer River, Minnesota, with a service area consisting of a 50-mile radius, the staff of over 200 health care workers offers area residents a wide range of high-quality health care services - in one convenient location. Deer River HealthCare Center is committed to providing quality, compassionate health care for life.
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