Carla Robles and Oscar Febo's weight loss success story
Carla and Oscar knew something needed to change. Nearly 200 pounds later the couple are happy they sought help from UCF Lake Nona Hospital.
Carla Robles and Oscar Febo struggled to lose weight for as long as they could remember, and had been diagnosed with diabetes and pre-diabetes, respectively. Together the couple were looking to feel better and improve their health and knew something needed to change. In late spring 2023 the couple had weight loss surgery, undergoing a sleeve gastrectomy at UCF Lake Nona Hospital. Less than six months later the pair have lost a combined 190 pounds. The weight loss has put Carla’s diabetes into remission and reversed Oscar’s pre-diabetes.
Today is #WorldDiabetesDay, and it is estimated that one in 10 adults worldwide have the disease. In may cases, type 2 diabetes and its complications can be delayed or prevented by adopting and maintaining healthy habits, including losing weight.
Carla and Oscar have seen great gains in their overall health dropping from 14 prescription medications daily, down to four. Along with improved blood sugar, they have improved their blood pressure, no longer need medication for Carla’s asthma, and their sleep apnea has improved significantly.
“We both are different people now, full of energy and we feel so much better,” Carla said. “It’s been a life changing experience especially with our health. I used to sleep a lot and was tired all the time.”
Prior to the surgery Carla struggled with anxiety and depression and didn’t want to leave the house. “It was difficult for me to walk and if I did, I was gasping for air,” she said.
“The week after surgery I started walking around the neighborhood and then noticed I could actually talk without gasping for air.” The couple now walks daily for 30-45 minutes and even recently participated at the Central Florida Walk from Obesity, which was sponsored by HCA Florida Healthcare.
Carla and Oscar’s weight loss journey continues and they are confident they will reach their goal weights together. “We have already lost so much weight, and if we continue with our nutrition and exercises, I know we can do it!”