Gary Deutsch
I was born a big strapping kid of German descent in 1953. Like most everyone else on this site, I struggled with my weight all my life except when I was on the US Navy diet plan from 1973 to 1977. Even though these were my skinny years, I was still considered a big man. My nickname back then was Tiny.
One good thing that come out of these skinny years is that I married the most intelligent, beautiful woman in the world. Several years later Tommy Joyce bore me two strong, smart sons, one of which like me struggles with his weight.
I own and run a small Fire and Safety company here in Texas and enjoy Camping, Hunting, Fishing, and ATVing. I've been a Scoutmaster for a local troop for the last twenty years but because of my weight, this is all becoming hard to do. I've met several friends and family that have had this surgery and they all have no regrets. After attending a local support group and a little more research , I decided it was for me.
But of course, nothing is that easy! My insurance company started playing their games and making their demands but with the help of the doctor, I was able to satisfy their needs. Almost one year later I was finally able to schedule my surgery.
I do this for my family, my friends, and for me. 
