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They have literally saved my life

Posted By Newlife60

"They have literally saved my life"

About: Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Glasgow / General surgery (Wards 9a, 9b, 9c & 9d)

(as the patient),

Had gastric sleeve surgery in January 2024 after a lifetime of struggling with my weight. Lost weight over the years and then gained even more, eventually developing type 2 diabetes. The extra weight made me feel low in mood and this led to overeating which then led to shame and guilt .This was a cycle that went on for years and years.  I never ever thought I would find myself in my late 50s facing mobility issues and potentially serious complications of type 2  diabetes.

When the gastric sleeve operation was suggested I thought it sounded like a very extreme  and invasive intervention and how could that possibly be suitable for me. But slowly over time I came to the realization that I was caught in a vicious cycle and that I felt completely powerless to change it. I knew my health would just become increasingly worse.

I met with the team headed up by Mr Katbeh, Nicole and Gillian ( amongst other amazing staff).

I had the operation on the Thursday and got home on the Sunday. Mr Katbeh paid me a visit on the Saturday morning! Nicole was there before and after theatre, giving reassurance and tlc. I'm not going to lie ,the first 24 hrs after surgery were pretty unpleasant and recovery took some time, but not once did I regret my decision. I knew I had to do this and only now wish I had been able to have surgery sooner.

Since the operation, my confidence has soared, I have become far more sociable and active and have done things I never thought possible. I completed a bungee jump for my 60th birthday, got my provisional motorbike licence , learned to kayak and floated down the river Garry in a huge inner tube.Things I would have never done before.

I will be forever grateful to Mr Katbeh and his team, they have literally saved my life and I will be eternally grateful for the skill and care given during my time under their care .Honestly can't praise you all enough ❤️
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Responses

Response from Kevin Torbet, Admin Assistant, Patient Experience and Public Involvement, NHSGGC 2 weeks ago
Kevin Torbet
Admin Assistant, Patient Experience and Public Involvement,
NHSGGC

Submitted on 14/11/2025 at 10:33
Published on Care Opinion at 10:33

picture of Kevin Torbet

Dear Newlife60

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your story. We are truly delighted to hear how well you are doing following your gastric sleeve surgery and how transformative the experience has been for your health, confidence, and overall wellbeing.

Living with long-term weight-related health issues and type 2 diabetes can be incredibly challenging, and it is clear how much strength it took to make the decision to pursue surgery. Your honesty about the difficulties you faced—and the courage it took to break such a difficult cycle—is inspiring.

We are pleased to hear that your experience with our bariatric team, including Mr Katbeh, Nicole, Gillian and the wider staff, was so positive. They will be very grateful for your kind words. Our teams work hard to provide compassionate, safe and patient-centred care, and feedback like yours means a great deal.

It is wonderful to hear how much your quality of life has improved since surgery—from becoming more active and sociable, to achieving incredible personal milestones like your 60th-birthday bungee jump, kayaking adventures, and working toward your motorbike licence. These are fantastic achievements and a testament to your dedication and determination.

Thank you again for sharing your journey. We wish you continued health, happiness, and confidence in all that you go on to do. Your story will undoubtedly give hope and encouragement to others considering the same path.

Kind regards

Kevin

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Response from Debbie Macintyre, Clinical Services Manager, General Surgery, Breast, Vascular, Trauma Ward (South), NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde 2 weeks ago
Debbie Macintyre
Clinical Services Manager, General Surgery, Breast, Vascular, Trauma Ward (South),
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde

Submitted on 14/11/2025 at 10:38
Published on Care Opinion at 10:38

picture of Debbie Macintyre

Dear Newlife60,

Thank you for sharing such an honest and inspiring story. It takes real courage to talk about the challenges you’ve faced and the steps you’ve taken to turn things around. What you’ve described – the cycle of weight struggles, the impact on your mood, and the sense of powerlessness – is something many people can relate to, but few speak about so openly. Your words will give hope to others who might feel stuck in the same place.

Choosing gastric sleeve surgery was clearly a huge decision, and it sounds like you approached it thoughtfully and with incredible strength. The way you’ve embraced life since then – from a bungee jump to kayaking down the river Garry – is nothing short of remarkable. Those achievements show not just physical transformation, but a renewed confidence and zest for life. That’s something to be proud of every single day.

It’s wonderful to hear how much support you received from Mr Katbeh, Nicole, Gillian, and the whole team. Your gratitude really shines through, and I’m sure they would be deeply moved to know the difference they’ve made.

Best wishes to you,

Debbie Macintyre

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